Lead end-to-end execution of complex aerospace and defense programs: manage schedules, budgets, risks, vendor contracts, compliance, variant management, customer relations, cross-functional coordination, NPI, demos, and continuous product and process improvements to meet DoD requirements and stakeholder objectives.
Who We Are About the Role What You'll Do: Qualifications: Preferred Qualifications: Work Environment Compensation Benefits & Perks Export Control Compliance Equal Opportunity Statement
At Firestorm, we are building the future of expeditionary defense manufacturing and autonomous systems. Modern conflict has exposed a fundamental problem: the systems needed most by operators are often too expensive, too slow to produce, and too difficult to sustain at scale. Firestorm exists to change that.
We develop mission-adaptable aerial systems and deployable manufacturing infrastructure designed to put capability directly into the hands of the warfighter. From modular unmanned aircraft to xCell — our deployable microfactory — our goal is to make defense systems rapidly deployable, adaptable, and producible at the point of need.
We are looking for builders, operators, and problem-solvers who want to work on meaningful technology with real-world impact.
As a Senior Principal Technical Program Manager at Firestorm, you will take charge of mission-critical programs that push the boundaries of aerospace and defense technologies. You’ll be responsible for overseeing the end-to-end execution of complex projects, ensuring the seamless integration of technical, schedule, and cost objectives to deliver innovative, high-performance systems.
This is an exciting opportunity for a seasoned program manager to influence key decisions, lead cross-functional teams, and drive both innovation and operational excellence in programs that directly impact national security. You will collaborate closely with external customers and internal stakeholders--Business Development, Operations, and Engineering teams--maintaining a strong focus on program execution, customer satisfaction, and delivering cutting-edge technologies that meet the highest standards.
- Create, maintain, and track detailed program schedules, budgets, and resource plans for global programs, guiding them from concept through New Product Introduction (NPI) and full deployment.
- Advocate for program resources, budget, and priority, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and customer expectations.
- Monitor and report on program and project status, highlighting key metrics and milestones, and driving accountability across teams.
- Proactively identify, assess, and mitigate program risks, escalating when necessary to ensure that objectives are met on time and within budget.
- Lead the development of solutions to resolve program issues, ensuring timely delivery, cost efficiency, and technical excellence.
- Ensure compliance with industry standards, regulatory requirements, and internal policies across all program phases.
- Implement and oversee variant management strategies, ensuring seamless integration and delivery of tailored solutions.
- Negotiate terms related to performance, delivery, and cost with Sales and Business Development, ensuring that all agreements align with program goals.
- Act as the primary point of contact for coordination between engineering, product, manufacturing, quality, and business teams to drive collaboration and successful execution.
- Act as the primary customer contact for program activities, including project and program reviews, ensuring strong communication and stakeholder satisfaction.
- Partner with Marketing, Sales, and Business Development teams to produce customer-facing documentation, ensuring it aligns with program objectives and client needs.
- Work and negotiate with vendors on contracts and agreements to secure necessary resources and services for program execution.
- Coordinate planning, preparation, and execution of product demonstrations and test events, showcasing technical capabilities and meeting customer requirements.
- Collaborate with Engineering teams to continually improve product offerings, advocating for new features and innovations that will benefit the program and exceed customer expectations.
- Lead cross-functional teams, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement.
- U.S. Citizenship required & the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) security clearance.
- Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field.
- 15+ years of experience leading and managing complex, technical programs, preferably in aerospace, defense, or electromechanical systems; Or, 19+ years of relevant experience in lieu of a degree).
- Proven ability to integrate cost, schedule, and technical baselines for high-impact, cross-functional programs.
- Strong leadership and communication skills, with the ability to manage multiple teams and maintain stakeholder alignment.
- Experience in preparing, reviewing, and submitting proposals and/or requests for quotes (RFQs) for aerospace or engineering programs.
- Expertise in project management tools like Jira, MS Project, or equivalent, for managing complex projects.
- Master’s degree in Engineering, Engineering Management, or an MBA.
- Experience managing programs in a cross-functional, geographically dispersed environment.
- Experience working with UAS and familiarity with DoD standards and regulations.
- Ability to refine and develop processes, tools, and templates for more efficient program execution.
- Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to mentor, lead, and motivate teams to success.
- Experience with military personnel or defense contractors, particularly in managing complex defense programs.
- Based at our Headquarters in San Diego, CA.
- Occasional travel up to 10% domestically to engage with customers, vendors, and support program milestones.
- We welcome candidates who are local or open to relocating. Relocation assistance is available and may be included in the offer package where appropriate.
US Salary Range: $210,000 - $255,000 USD
The posted salary range reflects an estimate based on a variety of compensation factors, including but not limited to relevant experience, education, certifications, specialized skills, geographic location, and business needs. Actual compensation may vary, and this range is subject to change as our compensation structure or market conditions evolve.
Our culture fosters collaboration, respect, and trust, empowering passionate people to do their best work. We offer a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for career growth. In addition to an opportunity to take part in an innovative, collaborative and fast-growing business with a highly motivated and skilled team, we also take pride in taking care of our employees. Here are just a few ways that we show our appreciation:
- We offer comprehensive medical, dental, and visions plans
- 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan to invest in your long-term retirement goals
- Unlimited PTO
- Extremely generous company holiday calendar, including a holiday hiatus in December
- Generous Parental Leave
- FSA
- HSA
- Hospital Indemnity insurance
- Critical Illness insurance
- Accident insurance
- Basic Life/AD&D, short-term and long-term disability insurance, 100% covered by Firestorm. Plus, the option to purchase additional life insurance for you and your family.
- Mental Health Resources: We provide free mental health resources 24/7 including therapy and more. Additional work-life services, such as free legal and financial support, are available to you as well.
To conform to U.S. government export control regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and Export Administration Regulations (EAR), you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or otherwise eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State or U.S. Department of Commerce.
Firestorm is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, and upholding equitable hiring practices. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic under federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the CA Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. We actively encourage members of recognized minorities, women, Veterans, and those with disabilities to apply, and we work to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all applicants throughout the interview process.
Firestorm is committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible work environment. If you require accommodations or assistance during the application process, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at [email protected] so we can provide the support you need.
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What you need to know about the Los Angeles Tech Scene
Los Angeles is a global leader in entertainment, so it’s no surprise that many of the biggest players in streaming, digital media and game development call the city home. But the city boasts plenty of non-entertainment innovation as well, with tech companies spanning verticals like AI, fintech, e-commerce and biotech. With major universities like Caltech, UCLA, USC and the nearby UC Irvine, the city has a steady supply of top-flight tech and engineering talent — not counting the graduates flocking to Los Angeles from across the world to enjoy its beaches, culture and year-round temperate climate.
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