Principal Program Manager, Aerospace & Defense

Role overview A senior Principal Program Manager role focused on leading large, cross-functional operational programs that improve efficiency, scalability, and growth across an advanced manufacturing business. Candidates with experience in the aerospace and defense industry are preferred, given the technical and regulatory demands of that customer base. The role blends program leadership, stakeholder management, and operational analytics, and is structured as a hybrid position with up to 25% travel.

Responsibilities - Lead complex, cross-functional operational programs from initiation through delivery. - Partner with product, engineering, supply chain, and customer success teams to land operational improvements with measurable outcomes. - Define and track KPIs, surface continuous-improvement opportunities, and report on program health. - Build detailed project plans, manage budgets, mitigate risks, and keep timelines on track. - Act as the primary liaison between stakeholders to maintain alignment on objectives and deliverables. - Use data analysis to identify opportunities for automation and process improvement. - Champion lean principles and operational best practices across the organization.

Requirements - Bachelor's degree in Business, Engineering, Operations, or a related field. - 12+ years of experience in program or project management, operations, or supply chain. - Demonstrated success leading large-scale, cross-functional projects in a fast-paced environment. - Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills. - Proven experience managing budgets, timelines, and project scope. - Willingness and ability to travel up to 25% of the time.

Nice to have - Background in the aerospace and defense or broader manufacturing industry. - Familiarity with ERP systems, supply chain platforms, and operational analytics tools. - PMP, Six Sigma, or Lean certification. - Proficiency with project management tools such as Jira, Asana, or Microsoft Project.

Benefits and work setup - Estimated base salary range of $103,000 to $134,000 annually plus an annual bonus, depending on skills, experience, and location. - 401(k) match and a benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus life and disability coverage. - Generous paid time off including vacation, sick leave, fixed and floating holidays, and maternity and bonding leave. - Employee Assistance Program and additional wellbeing resources. - Hybrid work arrangement with up to 25% travel.