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Senior Program Manager - Defense

nLIGHT, Inc.
nLIGHT, Inc. Salary
Camas, WA Full Time
POSTED ON 11/23/2025
AVAILABLE BEFORE 1/19/2026
Who We Are

At nLIGHT, we are constantly on the cutting-edge of laser technology in a massively growing market. We are a leading provider of high-power semiconductors and fiber lasers for industrial, microfabrication, and aerospace & defense applications, to name a few. Our lasers are changing not only the way things are made, but also changing the things that can be made.

Headquartered in Camas, Washington, nLIGHT is a publicly listed company (NASDAQ: LASR).

About The Role

In summary, the Senior Program Manager requires a self-motivated individual with excellent communication skills who is responsible for driving critical products for aerospace and defense. This includes developing and managing teams, creating and monitoring key performance metrics, building and strengthening customer relationships, and successful project execution against an AOP. The ideal candidate will have a strong electro-optical technical background, DOD project experience with risk management, revenue forecasting, tracking funding and billing, subcontractor management, follow on proposals, meeting coordination (internal and external), and regular up-reporting on program performance. Earned Value experience on mid to large DOD programs is a bonus.

Job Responsibilities

  • Responsible for the successful technical, schedule, and cost performance of a major program, or multiple programs in accordance with contract requirements and company policies, procedures and guidelines
  • Lead the negotiation of contract and contract changes, change orders, and preparation of proposals/business plans; performance of Statement of Work (SOW) and specifications; and performance to operating budgets and financial terms/conditions of contract
  • Track program/project against its schedule and budget, and against phase review objectives
  • Lead and support proposal efforts
  • Own and manage customer satisfaction
  • Monitor contract, subcontract, and funding; prepare forecasts of program financial performance
  • Experience in building customer relationships, leading customer interactions and discussions of a technical and/or strategic nature, preferred
  • Create process and tools for PM Excellence

Qualifications

  • Minimum 10 years' experience in Program Management
  • Minimum BS in Engineering, Economics, Finance, or a related degree. MBA or MS, preferred
  • Knowledge of Government contractual terms and major contract types; CPFF, FFP, T&M
  • Knowledge of ITAR, EAR and related U.S. regulations
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills
  • Proficient in MS Office
  • Must be willing to travel up to 15%

NLIGHT Is Proud To Offer Comprehensive COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

Salary level will be based on qualifications, education and experience:

  • Program Manager: $90,000 - $120,000
  • Senior Program Manager: $120,000 - $150,000

Other Compensation And Benefits

  • Target Cash Bonus of 5-8% of earned wages, dependent upon level
  • Eligible for Restricted Stock Unit grants
  • 4 weeks of Paid Time Off per year
  • 10 paid Holidays
  • Eligible for health benefits on the 1st day of the month after your start date
  • Medical, Dental and Vision Benefits, including prescription and orthodontia with employee-paid premiums as low as $40.00 per pay period
  • Flexible Spending and Health Savings Accounts
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan
  • 401(k) with company match and immediate vesting
  • Company paid Short-Term and Long-Term Disability, and Life & AD&D Insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Aflac Supplemental Insurance
  • Paid Bereavement Leave and Jury Duty
  • Tuition Assistance Program
  • Pet Insurance

nLIGHT is subject to US Export Control regulations. To qualify for this position, you must be a US Person (that is, a US citizen, lawful permanent resident, or protected individual granted asylum or refugee status).

Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or age. For more information about our commitment to equal employment opportunity, please see this government poster: https://www.eeoc.gov/sites/default/files/2023-06/22-088_eeoc_knowyourrights6.12screenrdr.pdf">Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal. If you are an individual with a disability and need a reasonable accommodation in the application or hiring process, please contact Human Resources at (360) 566-4460 or HR@nlight.net.

E-Verify Participation

nLIGHT participates in the E-Verify program. This employer will provide the Social Security Administration (SSA) and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) with information from each new employee’s Form I-9 to confirm work authorization.

For More Information, Please Review The Following Notices

  • E-Verify Participation Poster
  • Right to Work Poster

Salary : $40

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