Spacecraft Program Manager (TS//SCI)

TL;DR

Spacecraft Program Manager (TS//SCI): Serve as primary customer interface for national security space programs, leading from business development through on-orbit operations with an accent on mission alignment, risk mitigation, and contract fulfillment. Focus on shaping opportunities, overseeing program execution, and collaborating cross-functionally to deliver innovative spacecraft solutions under aggressive timelines.

Location: Los Angeles, CA. Must be a U.S. Person per ITAR regulations with active Top Secret or Top Secret SCI clearance.

Salary: $125,000 - $185,000 + equity

Company

Building the largest and highest-power satellites for missions from LEO to deep space, backed by $450M from leading investors and $500M in contracts.

What you will do

• Serve as primary customer interface, aligning mission requirements with technology offerings.
• Shape new opportunities by collaborating with stakeholders and defining program requirements.
• Oversee programs from contract award through integration, test, launch, and on-orbit operations.
• Lead proposals, contract management, and customer reviews.
• Collaborate with engineering teams to assess readiness, manage changes, and mitigate risks.
• Deliver technical briefings, negotiate requirements, and maintain government stakeholder relationships.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in engineering or science.
• 5+ years in program management, systems engineering, or operations of government programs.
• Deep understanding of launch vehicles, spacecraft, or aerospace systems.
• Active Top Secret or Top Secret SCI clearance and U.S. Person status per ITAR.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced startup environment with up to 25% travel.

Nice to Have

• Master’s or PhD in engineering or science.
• 10+ years in program/project management or systems engineering.
• Experience with spacecraft mission design, development, integration, or test.
• Background in US national security community.
• Contracts and negotiations experience.
• Proven project ownership and innovation track record.

Culture & Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits: paid time off, medical/dental/vision, life insurance, paid parental leave.
• Equity in the company.
• Fast-paced startup environment emphasizing agility, autonomy, and proactive problem-solving.
• Opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking Series C space startup with multiple launches planned.