Staff Program Manager

Join Kepler, a leading space technology company, as a Staff Program Manager. In this role, you will lead the end-to-end development and execution of mission-critical satellite systems programs, drive strategic initiatives, and guide cross-functional teams. You will be the primary interface with customers, subcontractors, and internal stakeholders, and will own and manage all aspects of program scope, schedule, cost, and risk. This position offers unlimited vacation, comprehensive health coverage, stock options, and flexible work options.

• Lead end-to-end program management for space systems development and production, ensuring delivery on schedule, within budget, and to contractual and technical requirements.
• Serve as the primary interface with customers, subcontractors, and internal stakeholders to ensure alignment and execution of program objectives.
• Own and manage all aspects of program scope, schedule, cost, and risk throughout the full program lifecycle, driving accountability across teams.
• Experience in supporting contract negotiations with major space agencies such as CSA, ESA, NASA, or JAX
• Strong interpersonal and leadership skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders and build consensus across technical and non-technical teams
• Demonstrated ability to identify, assess, and mitigate technical, schedule, and cost risks to ensure successful program delivery
• Proven ability to effectively interface with customers and suppliers and develop long-term strategic partnerships
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment
• Driven, adaptable, and consistently committed to surpassing goals
• Strong understanding and practical use of integrated master schedules (IMS) and earned value management (EVM) techniques to track, control, and report on program execution
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to clearly convey complex technical and programmatic information
• Proven experience in overseeing system development, from design to qualification and integration
• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related technical discipline
• Proven success in managing cross-functional teams, program budgets, and schedules to drive programs to successful completion
• 9+ years of experience in the aerospace or other electronic systems development industries, with 7+ years in a program management role
• Satellite subsystems or scientific instruments for space
• PMP certification
• Experience with systems engineering processes and optical systems
• Previous experience in technical leadership position
• Master’s degree in engineering or a related technical discipline