Program Manager HF & Free Space Optical Communication

Job Summary GA-ASI, an affiliate of General Atomics, is seeking an experienced and customer-focused Program Manager III to lead complex, high-visibility programs focused on High-Frequency (HF) communication systems and Free Space Optical Communication (FSOC) technologies. At GA-ASI, you will lead cutting-edge programs that advance communication technologies for critical applications in defense, aerospace, and commercial industries. By understanding how our products enable customer missions, you will play a key role in delivering solutions that make a difference. Join a team of innovators dedicated to pushing boundaries and delivering excellence in communication systems. The ideal candidate will manage programs from inception through delivery, ensuring technical excellence, timely execution, and alignment with customer mission objectives. This role also requires business development expertise to identify new opportunities, build relationships with customers, and expand GA-ASI’s portfolio in advanced communication systems.

The successful candidate must demonstrate a deep understanding of how HF or FSOC communication systems enable customer missions, ensuring all program activities align with operational needs and strategic goals.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Program Management:
  • Lead and oversee all aspects of HF or FSOC communication programs, including planning, execution, monitoring, and delivery.
  • Manage program schedules, budgets, and resources to ensure successful outcomes and alignment with organizational and customer goals.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including engineering, manufacturing, and quality assurance, to ensure program objectives are met.
  • Identify and mitigate risks to program execution, including technical, schedule, and financial risks.
  • Prepare and deliver program updates, reports, and presentations to internal leadership and external stakeholders.
  • Drive program success in alignment with corporate goals and customer expectations, ensuring adherence to scope, schedule, and budget constraints.
• Customer Focus:
  • Develop a deep understanding of customer missions and operational requirements, ensuring program deliverables meet or exceed expectations.
  • Act as the primary liaison between GA-ASI and the customer, ensuring clear communication and alignment throughout the program lifecycle.
  • Translate customer needs into actionable requirements for engineering teams, ensuring technical solutions are mission-driven.
  • Monitor customer feedback and satisfaction, proactively addressing concerns and adapting program strategies as needed.
• Technical Expertise:
  • Provide technical leadership and guidance for programs involving HF or FSOC communication systems.
  • Work closely with engineering teams to ensure technical requirements are met and systems are optimized for performance.
  • Support system-level testing, validation, and troubleshooting of HF or FSOC communication systems.
• Business Development:
  • Develop and execute strategies to grow GA-ASI’s portfolio in HF and/or FSOC communication technologies.
  • Identify new business opportunities, including government and commercial contracts, and lead proposal development efforts.
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with customers, partners, and key stakeholders in the defense, aerospace, and commercial sectors.
  • Conduct market analysis to understand industry trends, competitive landscape, and customer needs.
  • Represent GA-ASI at industry events, conferences, and customer meetings to showcase capabilities and drive business growth.
• Leadership:
  • Foster a collaborative and results-driven environment within the program team.
  • Mentor and develop team members, promoting technical and professional growth.
  • Drive continuous improvement in program management processes and practices.
  • Lead complex, multi-disciplinary programs, demonstrating mastery in program execution and customer engagement.

We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.



Job Qualifications:

• Typically requires a Bachelors, Masters or PhD in engineering, science or a related technical field as well as eleven or more years of progressively complex program administration experience with at least five of those years managing programs. May substitute equivalent experience in lieu of education.
• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Mathematics, or a related field (Master’s preferred).
• 7+ years of experience in program management, with a focus on technical programs in communications or related technologies.
• Expertise in either HF communication systems or Free Space Optical Communication (FSOC) technologies (knowledge of both is preferred).
• Demonstrated success in managing complex, multi-disciplinary programs with budgets exceeding $2M.
• Proven experience in business development, including customer engagement, proposal development, and contract negotiation.
• Exceptional organizational, communication, and leadership skills.
• Proficiency in program management tools such as MS Project, Jira, or similar platforms.
• Willingness to travel up to 25% of the time, including domestic and international travel as required.
• Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience in defense or aerospace industries, with familiarity in military communication standards and requirements.
  • PMP certification or equivalent program management credentials.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Security Clearance is required. TS/SCI clearance preferred.

Salary:$112,320 - $205,058