Product Line Director (Defense)

TL;DR

Product Line Director (Defense): Leading the overall ownership and execution of the LOCUST Directed Energy systems portfolio with an accent on lifecycle management and production scaling. Focus on driving the technical roadmap, managing complex program financials, and coordinating with US Government stakeholders to deliver operational capabilities.

Location: Onsite in Albuquerque, NM. Candidates must be a U.S. person under ITAR/EAR and hold or be able to obtain a Secret security clearance.

Salary: $148,000 - $217,875

Company

The premier autonomous systems company in the U.S., delivering breakthrough capabilities across air, land, sea, space, and cyber.

What you will do

• Own end-to-end execution of the LOCUST product line across capture, development, integration, production, fielding, and sustainment.
• Serve as the primary programmatic authority accountable for cost, schedule, technical performance, and delivery commitments.
• Lead cross-functional integrated product teams including engineering, manufacturing, supply chain, quality, contracts, and finance.
• Develop and execute program budgets, EACs, forecasts, and margin performance.
• Act as the senior customer interface for U.S. Army, NNSA, U.S. Air Force, and other DoD stakeholders.
• Drive the transition from development to production, ensuring supply chain readiness and manufacturing scale-up.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Physics, Business, or a related field.
• 10+ years of experience in defense programs or product line management.
• Demonstrated experience leading directed energy, advanced weapons, or complex defense systems.
• Must be a U.S. person (citizen, lawful permanent resident, or protected individual) as defined by ITAR/EAR.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
• Strong working knowledge of EACs, program financials, and earned value concepts.

Nice to have

• Experience with high-energy laser (HEL) or counter-UAS systems.
• Background supporting rapid prototyping, fielding, and operational test events.
• Familiarity with DoD acquisition pathways, OTAs, and rapid capability offices.

Culture & Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401K with company matching.
• 9/80 work schedule (every other Friday off).
• Paid annual holiday shutdown.