Program Manager III-IV

Program Manager III‑IV – Kratos Defense & Security Solutions

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. is a leading defense technology firm focused on unmanned systems, satellite communications, cyber‑security/warfare, microwave electronics, missile defense, training, and combat systems. Our customers include the U.S. federal government, foreign governments, commercial enterprises, and state and local agencies. We prioritize affordability, leveraging cutting‑edge methodologies and technology to minimize costs, streamline schedules, and mitigate risks.

KUAS develops, delivers, integrates, and supports high‑performance, jet‑powered Unmanned Aerial Systems (Targets and Tactical). We are a mid‑tier defense contractor renowned for agile, innovative aircraft solutions for the U.S. military and global partners.

The Program Manager oversees highly complex programs with significant business impact, focusing on technical, cost, and schedule performance while driving revenue growth. Responsibilities include proposal development, program execution, P&L stewardship, performance monitoring, risk management, and customer relationship management. Strong analytical, communication, and leadership skills are essential.

• Provide organization leadership and develop business & growth strategies.
• Lead program execution to meet contract and company commitments.
• Manage proposal development, program performance, and business growth for assigned programs.
• Set performance objectives, including financial goals, contract and subcontract management, and resource planning.
• Execute strategic and tactical planning activities.
• Promote effective team collaboration, deadlines, best practices, and communication.
• Apply advanced skills to high‑visibility tasks and provide actionable insights.
• Break work into manageable tasks, assign or direct work, and manage scheduling.
• Ensure satisfaction of all contractual and SOW requirements.
• Establish and maintain a risk management program.
• Report program status and performance per contract or management requirements.
• Interface with customers and internal personnel on technical, production, and procurement issues.
• Coordinate cost estimates for out‑of‑scope activities or future work.
• Investigate and perform root‑cause analysis on nonconforming products; troubleshoot and implement corrective actions.
• Maintain safety standards and ensure safe operation by program team members.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Direct a matrixed cross‑functional program team (engineering, manufacturing, contracts, procurement, quality, administrative, etc.).
• Collaborate with functional managers on interviewing, planning, assigning, and directing work.
• Appraise performance, reward, coach, discipline, and resolve personnel issues.

$160,000 – $200,000 USD

• Maintain sensitive, confidential or classified information per government standards.
• Effectively interact with peers and supervisors.
• Adhere to workplace rules and procedures.
• Plan, organize, staff, control, and direct complex engineering and production projects using earned value, risk, and schedule management.
• Understand engineering, development technologies, and applicable military/commercial specifications.
• Lead major subcontractors and suppliers to meet schedules.
• Negotiate and build teams.
• Direct goal‑oriented activities in an Integrated Product Team (IPT) environment.
• Demonstrate technical, program management, sales, and negotiation skills.
• Report detailed technical and cost performance data.
• Use Integrated Master Plans and Schedules (IMP/IMS), risk and opportunity management plans, and structured decision and analysis processes.
• Work autonomously with minimal supervision.
• Show innovation and creativity.
• Travel moderately to heavily as required.
• Exhibit passion for customer satisfaction.
• Influence cross‑functionally to meet program requirements.
• Strong communication and presentation skills.
• Track record in a high‑variety, low‑volume manufacturing environment.
• Understand marketplace and customer needs,…