Strategic Program Manager (Defense)

TL;DR

Strategic Program Manager (Defense): Leading complex defense programs across engineering, production, and supply chain teams with an accent on financial performance, risk mitigation, and customer alignment. Focus on managing high-value cost-plus and fixed-price contracts while driving continuous improvement in a dynamic, high-pressure environment.

Location: Must be based in or able to work onsite in Blacksburg, VA

Salary: $115,000–$165,000 Annually

Company

A global leader in high-performance motion control systems for aerospace, defense, and industrial markets.

What you will do

• Lead execution of complex defense programs across engineering, production, supply chain, and quality teams.
• Serve as the primary program leader for key customers, driving alignment on evolving priorities.
• Develop and manage integrated program plans, including cost, schedule, and risk management.
• Apply Earned Value Management (EVM) to track performance and forecast outcomes.
• Manage financial performance for cost-plus and fixed-price contracts.
• Support business growth through proposal development, capture efforts, and strategic planning.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business, Finance, or related field.
• 7+ years of program or project management experience in a manufacturing or engineering environment.
• Proven success managing complex, high-value programs with cross-functional teams.
• Skilled in project management tools such as MS Project and ERP systems.
• Demonstrated ability to lead proposals, negotiate contracts, and manage development program schedules.
• Must be able to access U.S. export-controlled information.

Nice to have

• PMP or equivalent project management certification.
• Experience supporting U.S. defense programs (aerospace, weapons systems, or military technologies).
• Familiarity with lean manufacturing and Six Sigma.
• Advanced Excel and financial modeling skills.

Culture & Benefits

• Comprehensive financial rewards including bonus opportunities and 401k matching.
• Full health and welfare coverage including medical, dental, vision, and disability.
• Flexible paid time off, holidays, and parental leave programs.
• Professional development through tuition assistance, mentorship, and leadership programs.
• Warm, respectful, family-like environment with active Employee Resource Groups.
• Flexible Friday afternoons.