Director, Space Payloads Project Manager

Description

The Proliferated Space Systems Division within the Leidos Space Business Area currently has an opening for a Space Payload Program Manager to work in our San Diego, CA or Huntsville, AL office.

This is an exciting opportunity to use your experience managing the design, build and test of Overhead Persistent Infrared (OPIR) payloads where Leidos is transforming the payload solutions for the future. As the Space Payload Program Manager, you will directly support the division by leading a talented team through an aggressive schedule to achieve program objectives, including frequent customer interface. This role is pivotal in driving the successful execution and delivery of complex space payload projects, ensuring they meet stringent DoD standards and contribute to improving our national defense capabilities.

The ideal candidate will have a robust background in program management within the aerospace or defense sectors and drive strategic thought, system solutions, and client management across all aspects of the lifecycle, from program capture through delivery.

Day‑to‑day activities in this role will include operations and execution of the contract, subcontract, finance, security, staffing, and procurement. You will monitor and manage program performance, risk, cost, and schedule; review and submit quality deliverables; and prepare contract modification proposals (technical and cost). The ideal candidate will possess superior analytical and problem‑solving skills, operate independently with limited supervision and feedback, be a strong team player, and establish solid working relationships with technical staff members and peers within the division as well as external Government customers.

You will articulate technical challenges to executive leadership and work closely with the engineering team to identify and understand technical risk and ensure appropriate corrective actions are taken to mitigate the risks.

This position is not intended for project managers without prior operational hardware experience and significant firm fixed price program ownership.

• Lead the end-to-end management of space payload programs, from concept through delivery, ensuring alignment with DoD requirements and company objectives.
• Oversee the development, testing, and integration of space payloads, coordinating with cross‑functional teams to ensure project milestones are met on time and within budget.
• Establish program management process and methodologies within the program to include: WBS management, IMS management, Risk and Opportunity management, and EVMS cost management.
• Capture new business by developing RFIs and BOEs, and approve proposals on behalf of program management.
• Negotiate SOW, T&Cs, and price with subcontractors and prospective customers/business partners.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for clients, stakeholders, and internal teams, ensuring clear communication and reporting on program status, risks, and issues.
• Develop and maintain detailed program plans, schedules, and budgets, tracking progress and implementing corrective actions as needed.
• Ensure compliance with all regulatory, security, and quality standards pertinent to DoD and space payload operations.
• Facilitate risk management and mitigation strategies, conducting regular risk assessments and maintaining contingency plans.
• Mentor and guide junior program managers and team members, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and professional development.
• Coordinate with subcontractors and suppliers to ensure timely delivery of components and services that meet program specifications.
• Ensure the program is properly staffed to execute scope of work on time and within budget.
• Establish and maintain program business rhythm.
• Work closely with subcontract program manager to ensure on-time delivery from the subcontractors.
• Oversee development, manufacturing, assembly, integration, and test of the payload and use key metrics to ensure the program is on track to promised delivery date.
• May potentially provide supervisory assistance.
• Success is highly dependent upon the level and proficiency of communication/writing skills.