Program Manager

We are seeking a Program Manager to lead the execution and operational maturity for global Company-Owned, Company-Operated (COCO) unmanned aircraft system (UAS) deployments supporting contracted intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions.

The ideal candidate will thrive in fast-paced, ambiguous environments and can drive disciplined execution across organizations while building scalable processes that enable continued growth and mission success.

Responsibilities:

• Deliver proven, exceptional, and reliable performance in support of customer/end-user's mission through flawless program management.
• Effectively collaborate, motivate, and lead relevant stakeholders to successfully deliver early, under budget, and with exceptional technical performance.
• Manage customer relationships and act as the key point of contact for the program.
• Astutely balance and rebalance shifting customer priorities related to cost, schedule, and technical parameters of programs.
• Provide hands-on management of all aspects of the program.
• Drive the accurate and timely tracking and reporting of budget, resource, and project management standard metrics.
• Complete critical path analyses, including the evaluation of potential means to accelerate the pace or mitigate identified risks.
• Identify potential bottlenecks or delays in programs and drive efforts to ensure projects stay on schedule.
• Partner with leadership to guide prioritization of projects and utilization of resources.
• Establish and lead a consistent cadence of well-organized, well-facilitated, and effective meetings, including driving all preparation and follow-up activities.
• Support an environment where accountability and program execution excellence are core.

Requirements:

• 5+ years of program management experience for Department of Defense programs.
• Ability to run advanced projects/programs consisting of multiple interrelated projects, in a manner that is largely self-directed.
• Proven ability to focus on long-term business objectives.
• Willingness and ability to travel domestically and internationally as needed.
• Experience with scheduling tools such as Microsoft Project or Smartsheet.
• Excellent skills in leadership, time management, organization, and team management.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and verbal and written ability.
• Expert understanding of complex project financials.
• Demonstrated alignment with Shield AI's values and leadership principles, including accountability, trust, collaboration, and servant leadership.
• Ability to obtain a Secret Security Clearance.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience supporting unmanned aerial systems, aviation operations, ISR programs, or defense technology programs.
• Familiarity with aircraft sustainment, maintenance operations, or fleet management models.
• Experience managing subcontractors, external service providers, or distributed operational teams.
• Experience building scalable operational processes in startup or high-growth organizations.
• Active Secret Security Clearance.
• PMP certification or equivalent program management training.
• Undergraduate degree in engineering, business, or operations management.

Additional Information:

• Full-time regular employee offer package: Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + Equity.
• Temporary employee offer package: Pay within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days of employment).
• Salary compensation is influenced by a wide array of factors, including but not limited to skill set, level of experience, licenses and certifications, and specific work location.