Program Manager - Defense

Job DescriptionJob DescriptionThe Program Manager - Defense is responsible for the successful execution of defense-related programs, with a strong focus on contract flow, operational coordination, and cost, schedule, and performance oversight.This role is responsible for keeping programs moving—tracking activities, coordinating across teams, managing materials and subcontractors, and ensuring alignment with established cost, schedule, performance, and quality objectives.The Program Manager works closely with program leadership and cross-functional teams to translate program objectives into actionable plans, monitor execution, provide oversight of program performance, and proactively identify and address risks, cost variances, schedule delays, and performance issues.This is a hands-on, execution-driven role ideal for someone who thrives in fast-paced, structured environments where accountability, visibility, and follow-through matter.Key ResponsibilitiesProgram Execution & CoordinationLead day-to-day execution of U.S. Army and defense-related programsTranslate program objectives into actionable tasks, milestones, and execution plansCoordinate activities across internal teams to ensure alignment with program prioritiesMonitor schedules, milestones, and deliverables to ensure timely executionProvide oversight of program activities to ensure work remains aligned with approved plans and objectivesIdentify risks, delays, blockers, and emerging issues, and develop or recommend mitigation strategiesCommunicate program status, progress, risks, and issues to leadershipSupport development and maintenance of program execution plans, schedules, and milestonesCost, Schedule & Performance OversightMonitor program cost, schedule, and performance against established baselines, contractual requirements, and internal objectivesTrack program budgets, expenditures, commitments, and cost variancesIdentify potential cost overruns, schedule impacts, and performance gaps and proactively communicate concerns to leadershipSupport forecasting of program costs, resource requirements, and schedule impactsMonitor subcontractor and supplier performance against cost, schedule, quality, and delivery expectationsDevelop and implement corrective actions when cost, schedule, or performance objectives are at riskMaintain visibility into key program performance indicators and milestonesPrepare and support program reviews, status reports, and management briefingsEvaluate program performance data and trends to identify opportunities for improved execution and resource utilizationMaintain accountability for program commitments, deliverables, and performance objectivesSupport Earned Value Management (EVM) activities and analysis, as applicableContract & Operations ManagementTrack and support all activities required to maintain contract flowRequest quotes, issue purchase orders, and coordinate procurement activitiesOrganize and track shipping, deliveries, and material flowPlan and monitor the use of materials across programsMaintain accurate records related to contracts, materials, costs, and program activityEnsure alignment between contract requirements and operational executionSupport management and tracking of GSA schedulesMonitor contract deliverables and requirements to ensure timely completionIdentify contractual, operational, and financial risks that may affect program executionSubcontractor & Customer CoordinationMaintain strong working relationships with subcontractors and customersCommunicate requirements, pricing, timelines, and deliverables clearlyEnsure subcontractors are aligned with program expectations, cost targets, and schedulesMonitor subcontractor performance and address issues that may impact program cost, schedule, or deliverablesProvide timely updates and support issue resolution as neededPerformance Monitoring & ReportingReview program and operational data to track performance, productivity, cost, and scheduleDevelop and maintain program performance metrics and tracking toolsIdentify trends, variances, and potential impacts to program objectivesIdentify opportunities for cost reduction, improved efficiency, and process improvementSupport reporting on program health, execution metrics, financial performance, schedule status, and outcomesPrepare program reviews and executive-level status updatesMaintain accountability and visibility across program cost, schedule, performance, and quality objectivesProcess, Compliance & Quality SupportSupport compliance with company and industry standards, including:ISO requirementsAS9100 standardsAssist in maintaining and improving internal processes and documentationContribute to quality initiatives and continuous improvement effortsEnsure program execution remains aligned with applicable contractual, regulatory, and company requirementsCross-Functional CollaborationCoordinate with engineering, operations, quality, procurement, finance, and leadership teamsEnsure alignment between program goals and execution activitiesSupport planning, prioritization, and resource coordinationFacilitate communication between functional teams to address program risks, constraints, and prioritiesSupport leadership in balancing program cost, schedule, performance, and resource requirements