Program Manager

Job Description

GENERAL JOB SUMMARY:

We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Project Manager to lead the construction and development of a state-of-the art hypersonic test facility. The ideal candidate will have a robust background in engineering focused on high power systems, exceptional project management skills, and a proven track record of successfully delivering complex projects. This position will require strong leadership abilities, meticulous attention to detail, and excellent communication skills to ensure project milestones and objectives are achieved. This position provides the opportunity to perform impactful work on a new test facility that will directly support several hypersonic programs within the Department of Defense and NASA.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Project Planning and Execution:
• Develop and execute the comprehensive project plan outlining project scope, goals, deliverables, timelines, budgeting, and resource allocation for the facility.
• Coordinate with stakeholders, including clients, contractors, and regulatory bodies, to align project objectives and requirements.
• Implement project management methodologies and best practices to ensure project progress, risk management, and quality control.
• Engineering Oversight:
• Oversee the design, implementation, and testing of the new facility.
• Ensure engineering solutions meet minimum project requirements.
• Collaborate with engineering teams to troubleshoot and resolve technical issues, ensuring project continuity and success.
• Lead and manage a multidisciplinary project team comprising engineers, construction workers, and subcontractors.
• Budget and Resource Management:
• Monitor and manage project budgets, ensuring financial targets are met and resources are allocated efficiently.
• Track project expenditures, prepare financial reports, and submit timely budget updates to stakeholders.
• Risk Management and Problem Solving:
• Identify potential risks and develop mitigation strategies to minimize project disruptions and delays.
• Address and resolve project-related issues promptly, ensuring minimal impact on project timelines and objectives.
• Implement corrective actions and process improvements to enhance project outcomes and efficiency.
  

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY:

• No supervisory responsibilities.
  
  

Experience And Skills

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

Organizational Core Values

• Integrity – We adhere to a code of sound ethical behavior that builds trust and confidence in all we do. We clearly communicate expectations and provide reliable results and candid feedback to our employees, customers and stakeholders.
• Excellence – We understand and consistently meet or exceed our internal and external customer’s expectations. We are accountable for timelines, quality and cost.
• Individual and community focused – We promote an open, collaborative and supportive environment by respecting the rights and contributions of every individual. We openly communicate information and ideas to our stakeholders; customers; employees; and the larger community.
• Innovation – We explore ideas and create solutions to global needs. We use science and engineering to solve the world’s most difficult problems.
• Motivated- Works independently and a self-starter who can thrive in a dynamic team environment to keep projects on track, resolve problems, and deliver results.
• Analytical Thinking and Detail Orientation- Small details constantly change that can have large impacts on over schedules or objectives. Identifying problems, troubleshooting and developing and implementing solutions requires detailed analysis in each task.
• Quality Orientation- Accomplishes tasks by considering all areas involved; no matter how small; showing concern for all aspects of the job; accurately checking processes, procedures and tasks; being watchful over a period of time.
• Planning and Organization- Systematically identifies issues to be addressed and plans a course of action for self to ensure the accomplishment of specific objectives. This position will require the ability to communicate and coordinate effectively with team members and customers. Candidate should have demonstrated history of effective verbal and written communication.
  
  

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

Minimum Qualifications

• US Citizenship required.
• Able to obtain/maintain security clearance at a level equivalent to Department of Defense (DoD) SECRET.
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Electrical, Mechanical, Civil, or related field) or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum of 7 years of project management experience in construction of technical infrastructure.
• Experience in high power systems, power generation, power transmission, or similar facilities.
• Strong understanding of engineering principles, high power systems design, and construction practices.
• Excellent leadership, organization, and communication skills.
• Proficiency in project management software and tools (e.g., MS Project, Primavera P6).
• Ability to manage multiple priorities within tight deadlines while maintaining attention to detail.
• Demonstrated ability to learn quickly in a complex, high-technology environment.
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Engineering or Project Management.
• Experience with large-scale industrial projects and familiarity with relevant codes and standards.
• PMP (Project Management Professional) certification or equivalent is highly desirable.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams and diverse stakeholders.
• Experience interacting directly with government sponsors and technical program management.
  
  

WORK ENVIROMENT / PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Work Environment & Conditions

This position is preferred to be located at the Kratos SRE office in Birmingham, AL. Alternate locations will be negotiable.

Physical Demands

Must be able to work at computer for extended periods of time.

Travel

Moderate domestic travel

Job Benefits

• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance Coverage
• Life/ADD & Short/Long Term Disability Insurance
• 401(k) Savings Plan
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP)
• Paid Time-Off (PTO)
• Holidays
• Education Reimbursement

Kratos Defense is an Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer. EOE, Minorities, Females, Vet, Disabled, Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity or any other protected class. All qualified job seekers are encouraged to apply. Kratos Defense is committed to America's veterans by providing opportunities for them to continue contributing after service to our nation. We also work to provide reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities.

EEO Is The Law

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If you require an accommodation to navigate or apply to our careers site, please send your request to HRAccessibility@kratosdefense.com or call 858-964-2916. Any inquires not related to requesting an accommodation will be discarded.

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The company will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant.

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