Principal Program Manager - Engineering Development

Principal Program Manager - Engineering DevelopmentLocation: Germantown, MD, US, 20876Job ID: 114057DRS RADA Technologies, a subsidiary of Leonardo DRS, is focused on proprietary radar solutions and legacy avionics systems supporting the defense industry globally. The company is a global pioneer of AESA tactical radars for active military protection, counter-drone applications, critical infrastructure protection, and border surveillance.Job SummaryResponsible for leading DRS RADA's IRAD portfolio and program management operations to include scheduling, PO management, and overall performance of individual product development programs. Responsibilities are conducted under the guidance of senior level management (Sr. Director of Programs).Works closely with Engineering to manage a development program or a product development project. May need to intercede with Engineering Management to accomplish objectives. Work outcomes may encompass product development, services or both. Manages and ensures the timely completion of specific, defined technical programs or projects. Oversee a team or portion of a program to plan, track and execute project plans from start to completion using specific technical knowledge.Job ResponsibilitiesManage and direct the daily execution of multiple programs within IRAD Roadmap to ensure cost, schedule and performance goals are metResponsible for leading the IRAD and program management operations. This includes responsibility for program scheduling function, FSR/event coordination in cooperation with Business Development and Engineering, and contract/PO placement and quotingEnsures proper methods are followed to track program cost, schedules and performanceTrack all program cost, schedules and performance against established program milestones; reporting the status to management stakeholders on a regular basisMay be required to ensure the overall execution of material on schedule and on budget for a development programs and projectsRequired to collaborate and manage a cross-functional, matrix teamEnsures program management directives are followedWork closely with internal and external customers, and obtain feedback on the program and product requirements, performance, and capability objectives and timelinesWork closely with business development, marketing and sales to ensure IRAD Roadmap meets upcoming customer needsBe able to overcome program development challenges and implement plans to proactively rectify any issues that ariseJob Responsibilities Part IIManage internal research and development programs within LOB and/or CODevelop internal relationships with management stakeholdersManage Program Management development to include coaching, teaching, retaining, attracting, and mentoring cross-functional teamsLead monthly program reviews for IRAD programsWork closely with Business Development to provide future opportunities for existing customers and solutions for new customersDevelop processes for identifying, assessing, monitoring and mitigating risk throughout the program lifecycleMay partner with various stakeholders on planning process and system improvementsSupport, communicate, reinforce and defend the mission, values and culture of the organizationSecondary AccountabilitiesDevelop and understand principles of process improvement (i.e. Lean Six Sigma)May require 10+ year in the in DoD program management an/or in production manufacturingMay require knowledge of DoD FAR procurement regulationsMay require knowledge of MRP/ERP with a solid understanding of electro-mechanical assembly operations, bills of material, demand material planning, and the supply chain purchasing processQualifications10+ years relevant experience.Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and experience. Engineering, Finance, Supply Chain or Business degree may be preferred or equivalent combination of education and experience depending upon the job disciplineKnowledge of program management tools and proceduresSolid leadership and management skillsExperience throughout the program lifecycle from development through sustainment to include: proposal development, requirements decomposition, generation of system and subsystem statements of work and subcontracts, risk management, and continuous improvement efforts including implementation cost reduction and performance improvement effortsExperience with earned value cost accounting and reporting; experience with metrics for assessing and reporting program progress, productivity and variance analysisExperience in finance, contracting, export regulations, engineering, logistics, manufacturing and supply chain managementSolid problem solving skillsStrong presentation skillsExperience with managing manpower planning, project reviews, scheduling and budget controlAbility to manage aerospace/defense programs as a prime or subcontractor to a domestic or foreign military organizationStrong oral and written communication skillsProgram Management certification preferred (i.e. PMP or DAU)U.S. Citizenship required. This position requires an active DOD security clearance or the ability to obtain such clearance within a reasonable time after commencement of employment.The salary range for this position is $146,497/year- $227,436/year. This range reflects the good faith estimate of pay the employer is willing to offer at the time of posting. Several factors can influence the pay scale, including but not limited to: Federal contract labor categories and contract wage rates, collective bargaining agreements, geographic location, business considerations, scope, and responsibilities of the position, local or other applicable market conditions, and internal equity. Other factors include the candidate's qualifications such as prior work experience, specific skills and competencies, education/training, and certifications. In addition to base pay, employees may be eligible for: annual performance-based bonuses, equity awards, and overtime pay (for non-exempt employees as applicable. Our benefits package includes comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, vision), employer matching 401(k) retirement plan, paid time off including vacation, holidays, and sick leave (including ant state-mandated paid sick leave), parental leave benefits, tuition reimbursement, professional development support, and life and disability insurance coverage.

Created: 2026-05-08