Northrop Grumman Space Systems is seeking an experienced Program Manager 3 to serve as the Ground-Based Midcourse Defense (GMD) Program Manager within the Targets and Interceptors Operating Unit (OU). This critical role is based out of Chandler, AZ within the Launch Systems Business Unit. The GMD Program Manager will be responsible for management and growth of existing GMD scope.
The GMD Program Manager’s primary responsibilities are to execute and manage cost, schedule, and technical performance within program constraints including:
Drive daily execution of the Launch Systems BU within the GMD program, ensuring operational and financial targets are met
Build and lead a cross‑functional program organization that satisfies customer requirements and integrates internal/external partners
Define, track, and close program requirements; manage supplier and teammate deliverables to honor schedule and budget commitments
Measure, report, and continuously improve program performance using Earned Value Management (EVM) and master schedule controls
Establishing design concepts, criteria, and engineering efforts for product research, development, integration and test
Ensure all manufacturing and test facilities needed to support product deliverables are stood up in time to meet build and test objectives
Develop and maintain program budgets, cost baselines, and resource plans (including workforce planning)
Lead risk‑opportunity management, change control, and contract scope compliance in partnership with the chief engineer
Cultivate strong customer relationships; represent the program in presentations, proposals, and business‑plan development
Partner with Global Supply Chain to negotiate contracts, manage suppliers, and oversee GFE/CFE assets
Serve as a decisive leader who drives financial results, team morale, and mission‑critical outcomes
Basic Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in Engineering with 9 years’ experience supporting U.S. Government contracts and customers and/or project management in related industries; OR a 7 years’ experience with a Master’s degree
5 years’ experience leading the performance of tasks on schedule, at cost and achieving all requirements as either project lead, integrated program team, cost account manager, or Program/Project Manager
Earned Value Management System (EVMS) reporting and experience
Excellent interpersonal, written communication, and presentation skills, including the ability to communicate complex concepts clearly and succinctly to customer, government, and corporate senior leadership
Ability to travel up to 25%
Active Secret Clearance is required at the time of application
US Citizenship is required
Preferred Qualifications:
Master’s degree in a STEM or MBA
Deep knowledge of Missile Defense Agency (MDA) organization and legacy missile defense systems
10+ years of progressive program management leadership across engineering, manufacturing, business operations, and mission assurance functions
Proven record of delivering large, fixed price and cost plus programs on schedule and within budget, with disciplined cost control expertise
Strong customer relation skills: adept at expectation management, coalition building with government customers, senior staff, and major suppliers
Demonstrated experience in multi-disciplinary team building and organizational leadership of large teams
Effective communication and mentoring skills to lead highly successful technical teams while addressing large and complex programmatic challenges
Experience in senior leadership roles on MDA missile defense programs, overseeing complex technical and programmatic challenges
Primary Level Salary Range: $166,700.00 - $250,100.00The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.