Program Manager

Program Manager

Albuquerque, NM (On-site at Kirtland AFB)

We looking for a Program Manager who will lead a team supporting AFRL RVE projects, which include conducting experiments on high-altitude balloons; design, A&IT, and operations of small to EELV Secondary Payload Adapter (ESPA) Grande sized satellites; development of spacecraft and space payload representative digital models or “twins”; and streamlining the acquisition process between the stages of analysis, prototyping, enterprise testing, and establishment of programs of record (PORs)

Responsibilities:

Lead a multi-contractor team supporting the Air Force Research Laboratory’s Space Vehicle Directorate (AFRL RV) to advance innovative space technologies through cradle-to-grave project management of high-altitude balloons, near-space, and spaceflight experiments. This role involves managing the design, prototyping, assembly, integration, testing (AI&T), and operational phases of space missions.

• Manage the execution of space programs and experiments, including satellites, high-altitude balloons, and digital models/twins, from concept through deployment.
• Oversee contract performance, ensuring cost, schedule, technical performance, and risk management align with AFRL objectives.
• Serve as the primary liaison between your team and the AFRL RVE Division Chief.
• Coordinate the contractor team, government activities, vendors, and suppliers to achieve program goals.
• Ensure readiness and availability of RVE facilities and government-furnished equipment (GFE).
• Report directly to VP, Space & Defense Services, and provide detailed contract performance updates.
• Streamline acquisition processes from analysis to program establishment to drive mission success.

Qualifications:

• U.S. Citizenship is required by Federal Law
• Active Clearance required and the ability to obtain a TS/SCI within a reasonable amout of time (Active TS/SCI preferred)
• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Space Systems, Space Operations, Systems Engineering, or a related technical field from an accredited institution
• 10 years of program management experience related to DoD and major space systems/programs

Ability to work on-site at Kirtland AFB in Albuquerque, NM

Desired Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Business Administration or a technical field such as Mechanical, Electrical, or Space Systems Engineering
• Defense Acquisition Workforce Improvement Act (DAWIA) Program Management certification or PMP certification
• 5 years of experience directly supporting an acquisition category (ACAT) space program
• Knowledge of model-based system engineering (MBSE) for digital models/twins and experience with AI applications in R&D processes
• Familiarity with U.S. Space Force (USSF) customers, including AFRL, Space Warfighting Analysis Center (SWAC), and Space Systems Command (SSC)