Director of Program Planning and Execution

Axiom Space is building for beyond, guided by the vision of a thriving home in space that benefits every human, everywhere. We foster a diverse environment inclusive of all perspectives. We are the pioneers of commercial space, leading the transformation of low-Earth orbit into a global space marketplace. Our mission-driven team is seeking a bold and dynamic person who is fueled by problem-solving, continuously curious, and driven to understand our world, science/technology, and life itself, for the benefit of all on Earth and beyond.

We are looking for an experienced Director of Program Planning and Execution who will primarily be responsible for driving program planning, scheduling, risk management, and execution tracking to ensure the program meets its cost, schedule, and performance objectives. This role provides visibility into program execution health, ensures alignment with major milestones, and integrates planning efforts across engineering, production, software, and operations. This position reports to the Station Program Manager.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Implements and oversees the Axiom Station Program’s approach to configuration management, program planning and scheduling, risk management, engineering product lifecycle definition/execution, and process engineering

• Serve as the primary integration point between PP&E functions and program leadership

• Drive program-wide configuration management (CM) and architecture integration

• Ensure cross-functional schedule alignment, identifying gaps and dependencies

• Monitor schedule risk areas and critical path constraints, working with the Scheduling Manager to develop mitigations

• Ensure program-wide risk integration, aligning technical, cost, and schedule risks

• Review and guide risk mitigation strategies, ensuring effective execution

• Provide strategic alignment for milestone reviews (SRR, PDR, CDR, FDR, etc.), ensuring program-wide coordination

• Ensure cross-functional engagement and accountability in preparation for major reviews

• Work with program leadership to resolve execution gaps that could impact milestone success

• Leads and manages the team to optimize staff utilization and availability

• Provides mentorship and professional guidance

• Leverages extensive experience and judgment to plan and achieve objectives

• Develop strategies and solutions to execute complex program initiatives

• Enhance staff morale by collaborating with the People & Culture department to ensure internal equity, training, and development

• Performs other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education & Experience

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, project management, or a related field

• Experience: Minimum of 8 years in program planning, scheduling, risk management, configuration management, or execution oversight

• Leadership: Proven cross-functional leadership, integrating Engineering, Production, Operations, and Business teams

• Expertise:

  • Deep knowledge of program lifecycle processes, configuration management, and architecture integration

  • Strong understanding of aerospace lifecycle milestones (SRR, PDR, CDR, etc.)

  • Experience leading large technical teams in dynamic operational environments

• Analytical & Problem-Solving Skills:

  • Ability to interpret schedule, risk, and milestone data to drive execution improvements

  • Strong problem-solving skills with a proactive approach to overcoming project challenges

• Risk & Stakeholder Management:

  • Demonstrated ability to manage risks and opportunities effectively

  • Strong stakeholder engagement and collaboration skills

• Organization & Execution:

  • Exceptional time management and organizational skills to meet tight deadlines and quality objectives

  • Excellent decision-making abilities to ensure program success

• Technical Tools: Experience with Atlassian suite preferred

Skills

• Excellent interpersonal skill

• Excellent communication skill, verbal and written

• Excellent organizational skills

• Result oriented personality with a creative approach to problem solving

• Ability to work in a team environment

• Self-motivated

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Generally, an office environment, but can involve inside or outside work depending on the task

Requirements

• Must be able to complete a U.S. government background investigation

• Management has the prerogative to select at any level for which the position is advertised

• Proof of U.S. Citizenship or US Permanent Residency is a requirement for this position

Physical Requirements

• Work may involve sitting or standing for extended periods (90% of the time)

• May require lifting and carrying up to 25 lbs. (5% of the time)

• Equipment and Machines

• Standard office equipment (PC, telephone, printer, etc.)

Competencies:

To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies:

• Ethics - Treats people with respect; keeps commitments; inspires the trust of others; works with integrity and principles; upholds organizational values

• Problem Solving - Identifies and resolves problems in a timely manner; gathers and analyzes information skillfully; develops alternative solutions; works well in group problem solving situations; uses reason even when dealing with emotional topics

• Organizational Support - Follows policies and procedures; completes administrative tasks correctly and on time; supports organization's goals and values; benefits organization through outside activities; supports affirmative action and respects diversity

• Communications - Expresses ideas and thoughts verbally; expresses ideas and thoughts in written form; exhibits good listening and comprehension; keeps others adequately informed; selects and uses appropriate communication methods

• Cost Consciousness - Works within approved budget; develops and implements cost saving measures; contributes to profits and revenue; conserves organizational resources

• Teamwork - Eager and able to work in a collaborative and cross-disciplinary fashion in a fast-paced, dynamic and deadline-oriented environment

Axiom Space is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. Axiom Space does not discriminate on the basis of race, regional color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.