Program Director - Hypersonic Vehicle

Stratolaunch is a technology accelerator that engineers operationally realistic testing at Mach 5+. Our air-launched, Talon testbeds are reusable, cost-effective platforms that enable routine access to the hypersonic environment. We deliver flight data critical to validating system performance and achieving rapid technology deployment. Together with our customers, we drive innovations that are imperative to advancing national security.

To achieve these great efforts, Stratolaunch is seeking a Program Director with at least 20 years of relevant experience. This visible leadership role is responsible for the successful execution of complex, multi-disciplinary programs, including strategic planning, cross-functional team leadership, and is responsible for all aspects of program delivery and organizational growth. The role spans the design and development, manufacturing, and flight test of a fleet of next-generation reusable hypersonic test vehicles. A candidate for this role must be comfortable leading cross-functional teams in a strong matrixed environment, driving the execution of a high-complexity technical project. A strong candidate will have a strong sense of urgency and will be able to make difficult programmatic decisions in an environment where not all the desired information is available.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Leadership

Lead strategic program initiatives and present clear and concise information in executive forums, customer engagements, and internal leadership meetings

Mentor, coach, and develop program managers and team leads across the program

Program Oversight & Execution

Oversee execution of multiple, concurrent programs with full responsibility for cost, schedule, technical performance, and customer satisfaction

Own and maintain a positive customer relationship by producing results

Drive the adoption of advanced program management processes, tools, and best practices

Make high-impact decisions affecting program direction, resource allocation, and risk posture

Lead program forecasting and budgeting activities, ensuring accurate financial planning and alignment with organizational goals

Manage revenue recognition and contract invoicing processes, ensuring compliance with accounting standards and timely billing

Monitor and report on program financial performance, proactively addressing variances and risks

Strategic Planning & Business Growth

Partner with executive leadership and department heads to define long-term program strategies, business plans, and growth opportunities

Lead the development of new business proposals, capture strategies, and customer engagement plans

Identify and pursue opportunities for program expansion, technology insertion, and process improvement

Customer & Stakeholder Engagement

Serve as the primary point of contact for key customers, government agencies, and strategic partners

Negotiate complex contracts, manage high-level customer relationships, and ensure alignment with customer objectives and expectations

Risk, Compliance & Governance

Oversee program risk management, compliance, and governance activities, including classified program execution and security requirements

Proactively manage risk by developing risk mitigation plans and driving technical risks to closure with a high sense of urgency

Ensure adherence to all regulatory, contractual, and quality standards

Organizational Leadership

Foster a culture of innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement

Lead cross-functional teams (engineering, operations, procurement, finance, legal) to ensure seamless program execution

Champion overall team growth and development, including talent acquisition, onboarding, training, and professional advancement

Develop and manage senior-level talent pipelines and succession planning to support long-term organizational objectives

Promote team engagement, collaboration, and high performance through effective communication and recognition programs

Implement organizational development initiatives to enhance team capabilities and drive business results

Reporting & Communication

Provide regular, comprehensive program status reports and executive briefings to the C-suite and Board of Directors

Communicate program vision, goals, and progress to internal and external stakeholders

Travel

Domestic and occasional international travel as-required to support program and company objectives

Qualifications

Required

Minimum 20 years of progressive experience in technical and/or program management, with at least 5 years in a senior or principal-level leadership role within aerospace, defense, or high-technology sectors

A strong sense of urgency, with the ability to make tough decisions in a technical environment

Demonstrated success managing large, complex, multi-disciplinary programs with annual budgets >$100M

Extensive experience in aerospace program management, subcontracts and procurement, personnel management, aircraft systems, aircraft operations, launch vehicle integration, and ground systems

Proven track record of technical leadership, including oversight of subcontractors and prototype/low-rate production

Advanced risk management expertise and experience with classified programs

Exceptional facilitation, negotiation, and executive communication skills

Strong analytical, strategic thinking, and problem-solving abilities

Ability to obtain and maintain a TS (Top Secret) security clearance

Demonstrated ability to lead in a dynamic, fast-paced environment and drive organizational change

Preferred

Airbreathing propulsion technology and hypersonic vehicle development experience

Experience working directly with government agencies, regulatory bodies, and major defense contractors

Air-launch, launch vehicle, and/or aircraft integration program experience

Large transport category or military aircraft operations experience

PMP, PgMP, or equivalent advanced project/program management certification

Experience with classified program execution and secure environments

Required Computer Skills

Advanced proficiency in MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint)

MS Project and other advanced project management tools

Education & Experience

Sr. Principal-level ($192,500-$235,000): Bachelor’s degree (B.A. or B.S.) or higher and 15+ years relevant program management experience or equivalent combination of education and experience

Director, Program Management ($214,000-$250,000): Bachelor’s degree (B.A. or B.S.) or higher and 15+ years relevant program management experience or equivalent combination of education and experience

Bachelor’s degree (B.S./B.A.) in Engineering, Business Management/Administration, or related discipline from an accredited institution

Master’s degree or higher preferred

Special remarks regarding work environment, if applicable

Supporting flight test often means contributing during off-nominal hours and weekends

All candidates are expected to be onsite in Mojave >= 80% of normal work days

Travel estimated to be approximately 10% or less

This position is located in Mojave, CA

Relocation eligible to local area

9/80 schedule

Base salary and leveling are established on a case-by-case basis. We consider several factors to ensure a competitive offer, including your location, educational background, and a comprehensive assessment of the skills and experience demonstrated during your interviews.

Benefits and our location(s) :

Healthcare ( medical, dental, vision, prescription drugs )

Paid Maternity and Parental Leave

50% company match per contributed dollar into 401(k) savings plan, up to $11,500

Tuition reimbursement

This position may involve the operation of company vehicles as part of assigned duties.

Mojave Air & Spaceport is located just outside of Lancaster/Palmdale and is only