At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and manage complex defence programs, ensuring timely delivery and exceptional results.
- Company: Join Safran Defense & Space, a leader in aerospace innovation and national defence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth, and a chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities for mentorship and professional development.
- Why this job: Be part of a mission-driven team that supports our troops and advances technology.
- Qualifications: 8+ years in program management with strong leadership and communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
ABOUT OUR MISSION: Join the forefront of innovation and make an impact at Safran Defense & Space, Inc.! Safran Defense & Space Inc. (Safran DSI), headquartered in Arlington, Va., is a leading U.S. aerospace company dedicated to supporting national defense and space missions. As a trusted partner to the U.S. armed forces, government agencies, and commercial sectors, Safran DSI delivers advanced technology solutions through its specialized business units: Assured PNT, Geospatial AI, Optronics, Space Solutions, and Testing & Telemetry.
Headquartered in Bedford, NH, Safran DSI Optronics (formerly Optics 1) is a global leader in full-service design and production of electro-optic and navigation systems. Leveraging core competencies in defense technologies, Optronics provides unmatched, first-class mission solutions for military and law enforcement personnel. We have a high-paced, high-energy environment focused on acknowledging individual and team successes, as well as overall growth. Optronics is a community that cares about the mission of our customers. Our team believes in supporting and enriching our community through engagement; whether that means giving back to our troops, veterans and their families, investing in next generation innovators through STEM education, or higher education initiatives, giving back is an important part of who we are as a team.
If you’re ready to join our mission and serve those who serve, Safran DSI is the perfect place for you to take your career to the next level. Make a real difference and be part of something extraordinary. Apply now and help us build the future of defense and space.
POSITION PROFILE: We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Senior Program Manager to lead and manage a portfolio of operations programs within our Defense organization. This role is critical in ensuring the successful execution of our projects, meeting contractual obligations, and delivering exceptional results to our customers.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Lead and manage multiple, complex defense programs from transition completion, ensuring they are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest standards.
- Develop and execute program plans, establish key performance indicators (KPIs), and track progress against goals.
- Serve as the primary point of contact for internal and external stakeholders, including customers, government officials, and other key partners.
- Manage program budgets, resources, and schedules, ensuring effective allocation and utilization.
- Identify, assess, and mitigate program risks throughout the program life cycle.
- Lead and develop program teams, providing guidance, mentorship, and performance management.
- Ensure compliance with relevant regulations, standards, and policies, including ITAR/EAR.
- Identify and implement process improvements to enhance program efficiency and effectiveness.
- Prepare and present regular program status reports to senior management and stakeholders.
WHAT YOU’LL NEED TO BE SUCCESSFUL:
- Bachelor's degree in a related field (e.g., Engineering, Business Administration) or equivalent experience.
- 8+ years of experience in program management, with a strong focus on defense or related industries.
- Proven experience in managing complex projects, budgets, and resources.
- Excellent communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills.
- Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, demanding environment.
- Program planning and execution.
- Budget management.
- Risk management.
- Stakeholder management.
- Team leadership and development.
- Communication and presentation skills.
- Problem-solving and analytical skills.
- Requires U.S. Citizenship.
IDEALLY, YOU’LL ALSO HAVE:
- Master's degree in a related field.
- Experience with specific defense program management methodologies or tools.
- Familiarity with ITAR/EAR regulations.
- Security clearance (e.g., Secret, Top Secret/SCI) or ability to obtain one.
TRAVEL: Up to 15%
EEO STATEMENT & ACCESSIBILITY: Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the role. EOE/AA/M/F/Vets – US Protected Individual status required (US citizen, lawful permanent resident, asylee, refugee or temporary resident (as defined at 8 USC 1160(a).
Senior Program Manager, Operations in Bedford employer: Safran DSI
At Safran Defense & Space, Inc., we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a high-energy work environment where individual and team achievements are celebrated. Our commitment to community engagement, particularly in supporting our troops and investing in STEM education, reflects our core values and mission-driven culture. With ample opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work on cutting-edge defense technologies, joining our team means making a meaningful impact while advancing your career in a supportive and innovative setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Program Manager, Operations in Bedford
✨Join Aerospace Forums and Groups
Get involved in aerospace engineering forums and online communities, like the AIAA (American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics). It's a great way to meet industry peers and stay updated on job openings and trends in the field.
✨Attend Industry Conferences
Keep an eye on upcoming aerospace conferences and events where you can network with professionals and showcase your interest. Events like the Farnborough International Airshow are not just about flying machines; they're a goldmine for connections and potential job leads.
✨Spotlight Your Projects
Make sure to highlight any hands-on experience or projects on your portfolio that showcase your skills in aerospace engineering. Employers love seeing practical applications of theoretical knowledge. Show us what you've got!
✨Apply Directly on Company Websites
When you find companies you want to work for, head straight to their careers page to apply for full-time roles, like the one with Safran DSI for a Senior Program Manager, Operations. This often puts your application in front of the right people faster than just waiting for job boards!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Program Manager, Operations in Bedford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Technical Skills:When applying for the aerospace engineering role at Safran DSI, make sure to highlight your technical expertise. Include specific software skills, like CAD tools or simulation software, and any relevant engineering projects you’ve worked on. This is your chance to really shine and showcase your engineering toolkit!
Don't Skip Your Projects!:Include a section in your CV dedicated to projects that demonstrate your problem-solving abilities in aerospace engineering. Whether it's a university project, an internship, or personal work, we love seeing how you’ve applied your skills in real-world scenarios. Make it clear what your role was and the impact of the project.
Show Your Passion in Your Cover Letter:At Safran DSI, we're not just looking for skills – we want to know why you’re passionate about aerospace engineering. Use your cover letter to express what excites you about aviation technology and your career goals. Share any relevant experiences or inspirations that have led you to apply for this full-time position.
Tailor Your CV for Aerospace:Make sure your CV is specifically tailored to aerospace engineering. Focus on your education, any certifications, and your work experience, ensuring you highlight aspects that relate directly to the role. Don’t forget to mention any internships or apprenticeships that have given you hands-on experience.
How to prepare for a job interview at Safran DSI
✨Brush Up on Your Technical Knowledge
Aerospace engineering is all about technical precision, so make sure you’re comfortable with key concepts like aerodynamics, propulsion, and materials science. We recommend going through any relevant coursework or projects you’ve worked on – these real-world examples can illustrate your understanding during the interview with Safran DSI.
✨Showcase Your Projects with Confidence
Make sure to have a portfolio ready that details any significant projects you've worked on, whether it’s a group assignment or a personal endeavour. Be prepared to discuss the challenges you faced, the tools you used, like CAD software, and what you learned from the experience, as this will show your problem-solving skills in action.
✨Prepare for Technical Interviews
Expect some technical questions or even problem-solving exercises during your interview with Safran DSI. Get familiar with design challenges or theoretical problems related to aerospace; this can range from calculating lift and drag forces to materials selection under stress. Practising these can help you feel more at ease when faced with tricky questions.
✨Emphasise Your Passion and Teamwork Skills
As a full-time candidate, it’s crucial to convey your passion for aerospace engineering and your ability to work in teams. Highlight any group projects or internships you've done, focusing on how you collaborated with others to achieve a goal. Companies like Safran DSI love seeing candidates who not only have technical skills but also fit well within their team culture.
