Principal Program Manager

Job Description

Job Description

Join Attalon’s Aerospace & Defense team in Murrieta, CA - a hub of innovation and collaboration where we tackle some of the most complex challenges in the industry. Our mission is to deliver cutting-edge solutions that empower our customers and shape the future of aerospace and defense. If you’re passionate about leading high-impact programs and driving results, this is the place for you.

Principal Program Manager

Are you ready to take the lead on programs that make a real difference? As a Principal Program Manager at Attalon, you’ll manage multiple high-profile customer contracts that are critical to our success. This role is all about leadership, strategy, and execution—guiding cross-functional teams to deliver exceptional results on time and within budget. You’ll be the primary point of contact for our customers, ensuring their satisfaction while identifying opportunities to grow our business. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment and love turning challenges into wins, we want you on our team.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field.
• At least 9+ years of program or project management experience within the manufacturing and/or aerospace and defense industry.
• Proven track record of managing complex, cross-functional programs with successful delivery on time and within budget.
• Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, supply chain management, finance (P&L) and quality standards.
• Demonstrated experience with program financial management, including variance analysis and EAC development.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and stakeholder management skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in business administration, Engineering Management, or a related discipline.
• Project Management Professional (PMP) or equivalent certification.
• Experience with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies.
• Familiarity with ERP and project management software tools.

Responsibilities:

• Lead the planning, execution, and delivery of manufacturing programs, ensuring alignment with business objectives and customer requirements.
• Coordinate cross-functional teams including engineering, production, quality assurance, and supply chain to drive program milestones and resolve issues.
• Develop and maintain detailed program schedules, budgets, and risk management plans to ensure successful program outcomes.
• Facilitate communication and collaboration among stakeholders at all levels, providing regular status reports and managing expectations.
• Identify opportunities for process improvements and implement best practices to enhance program efficiency and product quality.

Skills:

The Principal Program Manager utilizes strong leadership and organizational skills daily to coordinate diverse teams and manage complex program schedules. Analytical skills are essential for assessing risks, identifying bottlenecks, and implementing effective solutions to keep programs on track. Communication skills are critical for engaging stakeholders, facilitating collaboration, and delivering clear, concise updates to senior management. Technical knowledge of manufacturing processes and quality standards enables the manager to make informed decisions and drive continuous improvement initiatives. Additionally, proficiency with project management tools and methodologies supports efficient resource allocation and progress tracking throughout the program lifecycle.

For California, the base salary pay range for this role is $116,056 - $159,577 per year.
Please note this range is provided as a general guideline. When determining an offer, Attalon takes into account multiple factors, including (but not limited to) the responsibilities of the position, your professional experience, education and training, specialized skills, and current market and business conditions.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

Attalon, Inc. is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.  

Export Control Compliance

This role involves access to technology, materials, software, or hardware subject to U.S. export control laws. Therefore, to be considered, candidates must be classified as a “U.S. Person” under applicable regulations or be eligible for authorization under a U.S. government export license.