About the RoleThe Program Manager II leads a portfolio of programs valued up to $50M, holding overall responsibility and authority for cost, schedule, and technical performance. This role requires strong technical acumen and sound engineering judgment to critically assess engineering issues, guide the team efficiently toward root cause, and keep engineering efforts focused and purposeful rather than exploratory or redundant. Comprehensive program planning, execution, and resource management drive successful outcomes, supported by advanced program management methodologies, specific training in EVMS, CAM, BOE, FAR, and CAS, and in-depth expertise across all facets of program execution.
The Program Manager II develops and maintains program plans, schedules, and budgets — monitoring performance and implementing corrective actions to meet cost, schedule, and technical objectives. Leveraging financial and performance metrics, this role drives data-informed decisions and continuous process improvement. The Program Manager II leads management reviews, interfaces with financial teams, and delivers monthly financial reporting, while negotiating contracts with customers and developing proposals within the portfolio.
As the primary customer-facing point of contact, the Program Manager II builds strong relationships with external customers and stakeholders, communicates program status, risks, and issues, and delivers clear, effective reports and presentations. These relationships are cultivated not only to support current program success but as a lasting foundation of trust that positions the organization for repeat business and continued growth. This role ensures compliance with all contractual and regulatory requirements, resolves challenges with strong problem-solving skills, and mentors junior managers while driving complex program strategies.
Success in this role requires an Engineering degree, a strong technical background, and proven program management experience. The Program Manager II collaborates cross-functionally with engineering, finance, supply chain, and operations, exercises sound judgment to manage competing priorities, and communicates with clarity and confidence across all levels of the organization.
About YouOur mission is driven by an unyielding commitment to advancing space-based technology in service of our customers and safeguarding national security. We seek individuals who are passionate about innovating beyond boundaries and relentlessly pursuing solutions that protect, preserve and empower – to join us in this critical mission.
We’re looking for team members who align with our values, mission and goals – while also meeting the minimum qualifications below. The preferred qualifications are a bonus, not a requirement.
Minimum Qualifications
- Engineering degree required
- Typically requires a bachelor's degree with 8+ years of related experience (or a master's degree with 6+ years of experience)
- Significant, demonstrated experience in program management, with comprehensive knowledge of program management disciplines, planning, execution, and resource management across various domains
- Ability to manage a portfolio of programs valued up to $50M with limited oversight, including budgets, schedules, and technical objectives
- Skilled in leading management reviews, interfacing with financial teams, and monthly financial reporting
- Experience with contract negotiation and management, including proposal development that aligns with the program portfolio
- Ability to mentor junior managers and lead complex program strategies
- Experience with risk management and mitigation strategies
- Strong communication and teamwork skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and exercise sound judgment in guiding team members
- Proficiency with project management software (e.g., Microsoft Project, JIRA, Asana) and data analysis tools (e.g., Excel, Tableau, Power BI)
- Willingness to learn and adapt to new technologies and methodologies
Preferred Qualifications
- Senior-level project management certification preferred (e.g., PfMP)
- Strong analytical and organizational skills, including advanced analysis of complex data and organizational KPI measurement/reporting
- Familiarity with Agile project management methodologies and Lean Six Sigma principles
- Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and prioritize tasks effectively
- Understanding of software development lifecycle (SDLC) and systems engineering processes
- Strong technical writing skills for project documentation and reporting
- Understanding of supply chain management and logistics as they relate to program execution
- Ability to conduct root cause analysis and implement corrective actions
Compensation:
Pay Range:
$157,738.00 - $216,889.00
Your actual base compensation will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on job-related knowledge and skills, education, experience, internal equity and market competitiveness.
Elevate Your CareerAt Sierra Space, we are committed to your personal and professional development. We empower you to make profound and meaningful contributions and foster a vibrant culture of collaboration, where teamwork ignites breakthrough innovations.
We also offer a generous benefit package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, 401(k) with 150% match up to 6%, life insurance, 3 weeks paid time off, and more.
Sierra Space is an industry-leading space and defense technology company providing satellites, spacecraft, and enabling mission systems and components. We deliver mission-proven technologies to our customers that safeguard our nation, protect space-based assets and enable space exploration.
Application Deadline: This role will remain posted until a qualified pool of candidates is identified.
Please note: Sierra Space does not accept unsolicited resumes from contract agencies or search firms. Any unsolicited resumes submitted to our website or to Sierra Space team members not through our approved vendor list or Talent Acquisition will be considered property of Sierra Space, and we will not be obligated to pay any referral fees.
