Program Manager 1 - Strategic Systems

Overview Draper is an independent, nonprofit research and development company headquartered in Cambridge, MA. The 2000+ employees of Draper tackle important national challenges with a promise of delivering successful and usable solutions. From military defense and space exploration to biomedical engineering, lives often depend on the solutions we provide. Our multidisciplinary teams of engineers and scientists work in a collaborative environment that inspires the cross-fertilization of ideas necessary for true innovation. For more information about Draper, visit Job Description Summary Responsible for leading cross‑functional coordination across engineering, production, supply chain, quality and customer stakeholders in support of current and future production programs within the Strategic Systems Program Office. Drive program execution by coordinating with integrated master schedule, identifying and mitigating risks, and ensuring alignment between technical, cost and schedule objectives in a fast‑paced environment. Responsible for overseeing the execution of the full lifecycle of small to medium sized projects/programs of moderate complexity. Duties and Responsibilities Own overall program execution, including meeting cost, schedule and technical performance targets and exceeding customer expectations. Establish project/program performance measurement baseline. Develop, implement and update resource allocation plans. Work with functional organizations to effectively recruit, retain and develop key talent for the business. Manage and control all phases of programs from inception through completion, ensuring cost, schedule and technical performance. Act as primary customer contact for program activities, managing program teams and leading review sessions to ensure all work scope and technical requirements are met. Work closely with supporting functions to enable and monitor ongoing performance. Identify, assess and apply appropriate actions for project opportunities, risks and issues in terms of cost, schedule, technical elements and deliverables. Establish strong customer partnerships and balance ongoing needs and expectations against plans. Develop new business or expand existing products/technologies with customers. Provide leadership oversight for the team creating an open, positive, inclusive environment to maintain high team morale. Participate in contract negotiations, reporting, deliverables and changes. Deploy appropriate quality control and quality assurance processes and ensure adherence to the Quality Management System and customer requirements. Coordinate win strategy, competitive captures and compliant proposals to support current and future growth of the business portfolio. Manage all phases of the business cycle in accordance with the company's financial policies and processes. Ensure impactful, effective oral and written communications to internal and external stakeholders. Skills and Abilities Knowledge of program management tools and processes such as Earned Value Management (EVMS), Integrated Master Plan (IMP)/Integrated Master Schedule (IMS) and/or Risk/Opportunity/Issue Management. Experience working government projects/programs with direct customer interfaces, both internal and external. Ability to work with functional organizations to achieve project/program execution and business goals. Ability to implement continuous improvement across projects/programs and balance priorities in a dynamic, matrixed environment. Ability to travel on an as‑needed basis. Ability to quickly learn new technologies and/or new applications. Prior exposure to all product lifecycles. Ability to be persuasive and a strong relationship builder. Possess excellent communications, presentation and networking skills. Proficiency with Microsoft Office Applications. Education Bachelor’s degree (major in engineering, computer science, business or related technical field preferred). Experience Five (5) years of professional experience in project/program management in the commercial or defense industry required. Additional Job Description Applicants selected for this position will be required to obtain and maintain a government security clearance. Active Secret Clearance is required. Salary The US base salary range for this full‑time position is $95,000.00 – $245,000.00. Benefits and Work‑Life Balance Draper supports many programs to improve work‑life balance, including workplace flexibility, employee clubs ranging from photography to yoga, health and finance workshops, off‑site social events and discounts to local museums and cultural activities. EEO Statement Draper is committed to creating an inclusive environment. We understand the value of inclusivity and its impact on a high‑performance culture. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, national origin, veteran status or genetic information. Draper is committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, please contact View email address on click.appcast.io. #J-18808-Ljbffr