Program Manager

About This Role

This Program Manager role focuses on leading the execution and operational maturity for global Company-Owned, Company-Operated (COCO) unmanned aircraft system (UAS) deployments, specifically supporting contracted intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions. The position acts as a crucial link between various internal and external stakeholders, ensuring successful deployment and sustainment of operational capabilities worldwide. It suits a candidate who thrives in fast-paced, ambiguous environments and can drive disciplined execution while building scalable processes for growth and mission success.

Responsibilities

• Deliver proven, exceptional, and reliable performance in support of customer/end-user’s mission through flawless program management
• Effectively collaborate, motivate, and lead relevant stakeholders to successfully deliver early, under budget, and with exceptional technical performance
• Manage customer relationships and act as the key point of contact for the program
• Astutely balance and rebalance shifting customer priorities related to cost, schedule, and technical parameters of programs
• Provide hands-on management of all aspects of the program
• Drive the accurate and timely tracking and reporting of budget, resource, and project management standard metrics
• Complete critical path analyses including the evaluation of potential means to accelerate the pace or mitigate identified risks
• Identify potential bottlenecks or delays in programs and drive efforts to ensure projects stay on schedule
• Partner with leadership to guide prioritization of projects and utilization of resources
• Establish and lead a consistent cadence of well-organized, well-facilitated, and effective meetings, including driving all preparation and follow-up activities
• Support an environment where accountability and program execution excellence are core

Requirements

• 5+ years of program management experience for Department of Defense programs
• Ability to run advanced projects/programs consisting of multiple interrelated projects, in a manner that is largely self-directed
• Proven ability to focus on long-term business objectives
• Willingness and ability to travel domestically and internationally as needed
• Experience with scheduling tools such as Microsoft Project or Smartsheet
• Excellent skills in leadership, time management, organization, team management
• Excellent interpersonal skills and verbal and written ability
• Expert understanding of complex project financials
• Demonstrated alignment with Shield AI’s values and leadership principles, including accountability, trust, collaboration, and servant leadership