Program Director

Job Summary

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), an affiliate of General Atomics, is a world leader in proven, reliable remotely piloted aircraft and tactical reconnaissance radars, as well as advanced high-resolution surveillance systems.

This position typically reports to a senior manager or senior program manager and is responsible for planning, managing, and overseeing the technical performance of one or more significant program(s) or one or more developing engineering program(s), usually contained at one primary location. The Program Director oversees all phases of the program(s) from initiation through delivery. The role directs programs which represent significant future growth in several distinct developing products or components and applies new technologies or methods to coordinate applications across program requirements. Objectives are typically accomplished through subordinate managers. The program(s) under this role are likely to be a factor in the company’s strategic business objectives. The position may be responsible for decisions where erroneous decisions could cause substantial expenditure of time and resources.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Direct all phases of the program(s) from conceptualization through completion, including acquisition, planning, and managing technical performance to ensure quality, business, and financial objectives are attained.
• Develop and coordinate new program plans or delivery methods with little precedence for coordination across distinctive products while serving multiple customers.
• Consult with executive management to develop and implement current, annual, and long-term technical, schedule, quality, business, and financial objectives for the program(s), and contribute to the development of Group/Company objectives which have a long-range forecast projected to continue for multiple years.
• Manage the establishment of design concepts, criteria, and engineering efforts for product research, development, testing, and integration.
• Interact with senior management concerning matters of significance to the company and act as the primary contact for program issues.
• Direct, influence, and coordinate the preparation of proposals, business plans, proposal work statements and specifications, operating budgets, and financial terms/conditions of contract(s); influence contract acquisitions, negotiations, and modifications.
• Ensure technical leadership and excellence are maintained by directing and participating in the planning, attraction, selection, retention, and development of the required management, professional, and technical talent.
• Act as the primary customer contact for program activities and lead program review sessions with customers to discuss cost, schedule, and technical performance.
• Identify program issues and provide leadership in developing solutions such as re-allocation of resources or modifying contract specifications.
• Lead the development of new business opportunities and expansion of existing business opportunities. Participate with Group management in pursuing business partnerships, alliances, and joint ventures that enhance the capabilities of the Group/Company and may result in new products, programs, and business opportunities.
• Direct the development of and ensure the security of proprietary technology and maintain the strict confidentiality of sensitive information.
• Other duties as assigned or required.
  
  
  

Leadership Characteristics:

• Demonstrates strong ownership and accountability for program outcomes, including technical, schedule, quality, business, and financial performance.
• Builds, leads, and develops high-performing cross-functional teams, including management, professional, and technical staff.
• Effectively influences and aligns multiple stakeholders, including customers, suppliers, and internal organizations, around program and business objectives.
• Communicates clearly, concisely, and transparently with executive leadership, customers, and team members on program status, risks, and opportunities.
• Makes sound, timely decisions in a complex environment, balancing technical, business, and customer considerations.
• Fosters a culture of continuous improvement, innovation, and collaboration across programs and functions.
• Demonstrates resilience and adaptability in managing change, resolving issues, and driving programs to successful completion.
  
  
  

We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.

Job Qualifications

Typically requires a Bachelor’s, Master’s or PhD in engineering, science or a related technical field as well as fifteen or more years of progressively complex program administration experience with at least nine of those years managing programs. May substitute equivalent experience in lieu of education.

Demonstrates detailed and extensive technical expertise and application of program management principles, concepts, and practice as well as comprehensive program management and leadership skills including organizing, planning, scheduling, and coordinating workloads to meet established deadlines or milestones. Must be able to develop solutions to complex problems that require the regular use of ingenuity and creativity.

Strong communication, leadership, presentation, and interpersonal skills are required to enable an effective interface with other departments, all levels of management, professional and support staff, customers, potential customers, and government representatives.

Active DoD Secret clearance is highly preferred. Candidates must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret clearance if not already held.

Job Type: Full-Time Salary

Salary range: 155,370 - 289,320