Software Program Manager

The Space Dynamics Laboratory (SDL) is seeking an experienced and detail-oriented advanced career Software Program Manager to lead the development and sustainment of complex software systems supporting satellite ground operations. This role bridges technical leadership, stakeholder communication, and project execution, ensuring delivery of high-reliability software critical to national security and space missions.

This Program Manager works as part of a larger team with customers, engineers, managers, technicians, and support personnel. The Strategic & Military Space Division delivers advanced satellite and sensor systems that support the Department of Defense and the Intelligence Community. Join a team dedicated to making a tangible contribution to our nation’s defense capabilities.

• Leads cross-functional software development teams delivering ground system capabilities including telemetry, tracking, and command (TT&C), mission planning, automation, and data processing.
• Manages project lifecycle from concept through operations ensuring scope, schedule, budget, and quality targets are met.
• Interfaces with internal and external stakeholders including Software Engineers, System Architects, Satellite Operators, and government sponsors.
• Oversees risk management, change control, and related management processes.
• Coordinates software integration and testing activities.
• Facilitates agile/scrum or hybrid program management methodologies.
• Ensures compliance with applicable government and quality standards.
• Tracks and reports program status, technical progress, and resource allocation to senior leadership and customers.

• Bachelor’s degree in a technical engineering, science, or relevant field.
• 15+ years of applicable experience with a bachelor’s degree, or 13+ years with a master’s degree.
• Minimum of 10 years of software program or project management experience, including at least 5 years managing critical and complex programs.
• Must be a U.S. citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government Security Clearance.
• Proven success managing complex software projects through the full development lifecycle.
• Strong understanding of ground system architecture and satellite operations.
• Familiarity with Agile and/or hybrid project management frameworks.
• Proficiency with PM tools (e.g., Jira, Confluence, MS Project).
• Technical domain knowledge of scalable architecture, distributed infrastructure in Azure, AWS, or Google Cloud.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to support new proposal efforts with technical writing, proposal management support, subcontractor evaluation, and other duties as requested.
• Must be able and willing to travel (up to 25%).

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, electrical engineering, computer engineering, or Information Systems; MBA with a technical Bachelor of Science degree.
• PMP or PMI certification.
• At least 2 years in satellite or space system domains.
• 15+ years of project management experience in aerospace, including experience managing software for space operations centers, antenna tasking, and mission control systems.
• Familiarity with multiple Remote Sensing phenomenologies and data sets such as RF, SAR, EO, IR.
• Background in Dev Sec Ops , continuous integration/continuous deployment (CI/CD), or digital engineering.
• Active security clearance.

• $170,000 - $225,000
  • Salary commensurate based on education and relevant experience.

This range serves as a general guideline and may vary based on factors such as role, level, location, market conditions, and individual qualifications, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. The range displayed in the job advertisement reflects the minimum and maximum target salaries across all U.S. locations. Specific salary details for a candidate’s preferred location can be provided by the recruiter or HR manager during the hiring process.

SDL offers competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package. Visit our Benefits Page to learn more about what we offer.

SDL delivers advanced…