Project Manager, Defense

Technical Project Manager – Marine Engineering

Location: Fort Lauderdale, FL Department: National Security Segment Reports To: Program Manager, National Security Segment Work Type: Full-Time, Exempt Travel: Up to 50%, regular travel to customer and project sites Direct Reports: None Compensation: $120K to $145K DOE Bonus: Eligible

Role Overview

The Technical Project Manager operates at the intersection of engineering, customer support, OEM coordination, and commercial execution.

This is not a traditional schedule-tracking Project Manager role. This position leads technical scope development, owns full project estimates, supports field service and defense customers directly, interfaces with OEM partners, and drives projects from qualification through delivery.

This role requires strong technical fluency, commercial awareness, and the ability to translate complex defense system requirements into executable plans.

This role is well suited for professionals who have worked around ship propulsion systems, marine diesel engines, or engine room environments and want to transition into a technical leadership role supporting defense and marine customers.

Ideal Backgrounds

Candidates are often successful in this role if they come from environments such as:

• Former Marine Engineers or Chief/Assistant Engineers with engine room experience
• Marine Diesel Engineers or technicians supporting propulsion systems
• Naval Officers with ship engineering, propulsion, or mechanical systems responsibility
• Shipyard Engineers or Technical Superintendents supporting vessel maintenance or refits
• Power generation or heavy industrial engine specialists (diesel generators, large bore engines)

Common Backgrounds for This Role Include:

Marine Engineer Naval Engineering Officer Marine Diesel Engineer Shipyard Engineer Vessel Technical Superintendent

Key Responsibilities

• Lead technical scope development with customers and internal stakeholders
• Build and own complete project estimates including parts, tools, and special instructions
• Provide direct technical support to defense customers and field service technicians
• Serve as primary technical interface with OEM partners
• Lead technical qualification and support proposal development
• Partner with Sales on quoting strategy and commercial negotiations
• Coordinate execution across Service, Product Support, and Engineering
• Own delivery accountability including schedule, cost alignment, and technical integrity
• Resolve complex technical issues escalated from field operations

Required Qualifications

Hands-on familiarity with marine propulsion systems, engine room operations, or large diesel power systems Background working with marine engines, propulsion equipment, or shipboard power systems Experience developing technical scope and cost estimates for mechanical or industrial equipment Experience interfacing with OEM manufacturers or marine engineering organizations Ability to provide technical guidance to field service technicians Strong cross-functional communication with engineering, service teams, and customers

Desired Qualifications

Former Marine Engineer, Assistant Engineer, or Chief Engineer Former Naval Officer with ship engineering or propulsion system responsibility Experience working with marine diesel engines (MTU, MAN, Wärtsilä, Caterpillar, Cummins) Experience supporting shipyard maintenance, vessel overhaul, or marine service operations Experience supporting defense or government maritime programs Familiarity with large-bore diesel engines, generators, or propulsion equipment

Why Join MSHS Pacific Power Group?

MSHS PPG powers essential industries across Marine, Defense, Energy, and Industrial markets. You will work alongside specialized technical teams, contribute to mission-critical Defense projects, and help build a scalable project management function within a growing private equity-backed organization. We foster high performance, accountability, and a culture focused on white glove service and operational excellence.

Benefits Include

Medical, Dental, Vision 401(k) with company match Paid Time Off and company holidays Training and professional development support Relocation assistance considered case-by-case

Equal Opportunity Employer

MSHS PPG is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.

Drug-Free Workplace

MSHS PPG is a Drug-Free Workplace. All offers of employment are contingent on successful completion of a drug and alcohol screening, which may include testing for marijuana in compliance with applicable federal regulations and relevant state labor laws. We understand that marijuana laws vary by state, and our testing policies are designed to ensure compliance with both federal and state requirements where applicable.