Strategic Program Manager - Autonomous Underwater Vehicle Expert

About Vatn Systems

Vatn Systems is a pioneering organization at the forefront of designing and manufacturing cutting-edge autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs). Our mission revolves around revolutionizing underwater security, exploration, research, and operations through innovative technology and exceptional engineering.

Job Overview

The Technology Project Manager will oversee the management of technology projects from initiation to completion. This includes planning, executing, and monitoring project progress, coordinating resources, managing budgets, and ensuring alignment with organizational goals. The role requires strong leadership, technical knowledge, and effective communication skills for stakeholders at all levels.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and execute a portfolio of projects from contract signing to completion.
• Define project scope, objectives, and deliverables that align with business goals.
• Develop a detailed project plan to monitor and track progress.
• Prepare briefings and presentations to support project-related meetings.
• Create and manage project schedules, resources, and budgets.
• Identify project risks and develop mitigation plans.

Team Management

• Motivate and support project teams, ensuring they are aligned with project objectives.
• Assign tasks and responsibilities to team members, ensuring deadlines are met.
• Conduct regular project meetings to provide updates and gather input.
• Oversee the work of external contractors and vendors, if applicable.

Stakeholder Communication

• Serve as the primary point of contact between clients, senior management, and the project team.
• Provide regular project updates to stakeholders, ensuring transparent communication.
• Gather and document requirements and feedback from stakeholders throughout the project.
• Prepare for and attend conferences and expos as directed.
• Plan, prepare for, and participate in experiments and demonstrations.
• Support business development in repeat and secondary sales.

Risk Management

• Identify project risks and issues early, implementing effective solutions.
• Ensure adherence to quality standards and project objectives.
• Monitor project progress and make adjustments as needed to keep the project on track.

Budget and Resource Management

• Develop and manage project budgets, ensuring efficient use of resources.
• Coordinate project deliveries and resourcing with the Vatn Technical and Engineering Team and the Operations Team.
• Track project expenses and keep costs within the allocated budget.
• Allocate and manage resources (human, material, financial) effectively.

Project Delivery

• Ensure projects are delivered on time, within scope, and within budget.
• Ensure project deliverables meet the standards outlined in the statement of work or other specifications agreed upon with the customer.
• Plan and execute project milestone events.
• Prepare reports and documentation.
• Oversee the handover of project deliverables to clients or internal teams.
• Oversee user training.
• Conduct post-project evaluations to gather feedback and identify areas for improvement.

Travel Requirements

• Travel is required.
• 2-5 days per month most months.
• Additionally, multiple trips of 1-2 weeks per year.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Project Management, Business, Engineering, or a related field.
• Experience: Proven experience as a Project Manager or in a similar role. Typically, 1-2 years of experience managing projects.
• Certifications: PMP (Project Management Professional) or similar certification is preferred.
• Skills:
• Demonstrated success in managing multiple complex projects.
• Demonstrated experience working with project management software.
• Excellent writing skills.
• Excellent time management skills.
• Excellent public speaking skills.
• Excellent word processing and spreadsheet skills.
• Excellent customer engagement skills.
• Excellent teamwork and collaboration skills.
• Excellent leadership skills.
• Excellent organizational skills.
• Strong mathematical skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with government projects/programs preferred.
• Military experience a plus.
• Security clearance a plus.

Key Attributes for Success

• Goal-oriented: The BDM should be driven by results, with a focus on achieving sales and revenue objectives.
• Adaptability: The ability to adjust strategies based on market conditions, client needs, and business objectives.
• Relationship builder: A strong ability to build and maintain lasting relationships with clients and partners.
• Analytical: Capable of evaluating geopolitical, fiscal, and technology conditions and using it to inform strategic decisions.

Working Conditions

• Full-time position with travel required.
• Position requires full-time in-person work at company facilities.
• Must be able to wear PPE such as life preservers, helmets, protective clothing, eye protection, and hearing protection.
• Willing to travel; both domestic and international.
• Willing to work on military watercraft, aircraft, and land vehicles.
• Must be able to work on large and small boats.
• Must be able to lift 50 lbs.
• Must be able to work in adverse weather conditions (heat, sun, cold, rain, snow, on land and at sea).