SummaryThe ISR Program Manager serves as the primary execution lead supporting a strategic customer, embedded within the customer environment to coordinate program activities, integrate multiple workstreams, and maintain strong stakeholder relationships. The role is responsible for translating program objectives into actionable plans, ensuring delivery commitments are achieved, and driving operational excellence across complex, customer-facing, manned airborne ISR operations.
This position oversees program planning, deployment standups, platform readiness, contract performance, and customer engagement across domestic and austere international environments. Candidates must have extensive experience managing or supporting manned airborne ISR missions and a proven track record leading high-visibility, dynamic operational programs.
Success is defined by disciplined execution, customer confidence, risk and performance management, and consistent delivery of positive program outcomes.
Key Responsibilities- Lead day-to-day execution activities supporting strategic ISR customers, serving as the operational focal point and transition-in manager.
- Coordinate program delivery across multiple stakeholders and integrated workstreams.
- Develop and maintain integrated schedules, execution plans, and program roadmaps.
- Maintain visibility into schedule, risk, performance, and evolving customer priorities.
- Lead planning, execution, and sustainment of manned airborne ISR programs and operations.
- Oversee deployment stand-ups, mission execution support, and platform operational readiness.
- Serve as the primary customer POC for all manned ISR mission activities and program matters.
- Manage program schedules, budgets, deliverables, and Earned Value Management (EVM) reporting.
- Facilitate governance forums, reviews, planning meetings, and progress assessments.
- Manage risks, issues, assumptions, and dependencies.
- Build and lead cross-functional program teams supporting manned ISR missions.
- Coordinate audits, stakeholder negotiations, and alignment of cost, schedule, and mission performance.
- Ensure operational activities consistently align with customer expectations.
- Support RFP/RFQ evaluations, proposal preparation, pricing, and contract modifications.
- Support opportunity development and future growth initiatives within the ISR mission space.
- Identify and implement process improvements that enhance execution effectiveness.
- 6-12 years of direct experience with manned airborne ISR operations, programs, and mission execution.
- Experience supporting manned ISR mission sets within USAF, U.S. Army, CBP, or similar customer segments.
- Strong knowledge of U.S. Government contracting, FAR/DFARS, and acquisition processes.
- Direct experience with Earned Value Management (EVM).
- Experience leading teams of cross-functional members.
- Demonstrated financial acumen and ability to manage multiple programs.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Project).
- Experience with ISR deployment stand-ups, mission systems, and planning tools.
- Ability to prioritize and manage dynamic operational environments.
- Strong communication, leadership, conflict resolution, and stakeholder-management skills.
- Bachelor's degree in Business, Engineering, Finance, or related field.
Preferred Qualifications- PMP certification.
- EVM experience on DCMA-administered contracts.
- Subcontract management experience.
- Experience with PMBOK, Agile, CMMI.
- Understanding of data architectures and PM tools.
- Experience with corporate PM tools and ISO 9001:2000 compliance.
Essential Functions- Work in an office or hybrid environment.
- Communicate effectively with teams, leadership, and customers.
