> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/4232287-senior-technical-program-manager-irad-programs](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/4232287-senior-technical-program-manager-irad-programs). Every page supports `.md` or `Accept: text/markdown`. Links point to the HTML versions so they work for humans too. Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Senior Technical Program Manager, IRAD Programs - **Company:** PacSci EMC - **Location:** Chandler, AZ, United States - **Experience:** Expert - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Hardware Design, Integrated Development Environments, Microsoft Project, Power BI, Tools for Reporting - **Published:** October 18, 2026 - **Apply:** https://www.indeed.com/viewjob?jk=6046e791add333ef ## About the Role * Approximately 7 or more years of relevant program or project management experience, with substantial responsibility for technical development programs; equivalent depth of experience and relevant credentials will be considered. * Prior experience in the aerospace and defense industry and sufficient engineering or technical knowledge to understand hardware product-development fundamentals and work credibly with technical specialists. * Demonstrated ability to lead multiple concurrent technical programs and coordinate shared resources in a matrix environment. * Experience with integrated schedules, cost control, risk/opportunity management, and structured program governance. * Experience managing technology maturation and TRL-related development objectives. * Proficiency with Microsoft Project and Power BI or closely comparable program-management and reporting tools. * Strong executive-level communication, stakeholder management, prioritization, and independent decision-making skills. * Bachelor's degree in engineering, a technical discipline, or a related field preferred; equivalent relevant experience and professional certifications accepted in lieu of a degree. * Due to U.S. Government contract requirements applicable to this position, only U.S. citizens are eligible for employment in this role., * PMP, PMI-ACP, Lean/Six Sigma, or related program-management credentials. * Direct IRAD, new product development, or other internally funded technology-development program experience. * Familiarity with stage-gate new product development, manufacturing readiness levels (MRL), and DoD acquisition environments. * Experience with energetics, ordnance, propulsion, energetic-electronic products, or related regulated hardware development. * Knowledge of explosives safety, hazard classification, applicable DoD technical standards, and export-controlled development environments; specialized procedures can be learned after hire. * Experience coordinating the maturation or transition of internally developed technology into future customer-funded opportunities. ## Description Lead the execution and governance of internally funded research and development (IRAD) programs that mature hardware-based aerospace and defense technologies and prepare products for future market opportunities. This senior individual-contributor position manages approximately two to three concurrent development programs, from newly authorized efforts to programs already in progress, with an anticipated combined portfolio value of approximately $3 million to $10 million. The role requires technical fluency, disciplined program controls, sound judgment about development scope and completion criteria, and effective communication with senior executives. The program manager coordinates engineering and other subject-matter experts but does not directly design, develop, or test products. Key Responsibilities * Independently lead multiple internally funded technical development programs, owning scope, schedules, budgets, milestones, deliverables, risks, opportunities, and performance against approved objectives. * Establish and maintain integrated program schedules, cost controls, risk and opportunity registers, action plans, and phase-gate / tollgate deliverables; apply earned value or comparable performance-management practices as appropriate. * Coordinate matrixed teams across engineering, testing, manufacturing, quality, supply chain, finance, and other disciplines; negotiate access to shared personnel, facilities, and test resources without direct supervisory authority. * Manage technology maturation and technology readiness level (TRL) progression; collaborate with technical experts on development priorities, decision points, and practical go/no-go recommendations. * Prepare clear, accurate program-health dashboards and executive updates covering schedule, financial performance, technical progress, resource needs, and risks; present information to senior business leadership. * Support alignment of IRAD investments with product-development priorities and market opportunities, coordinating with finance, business development, and technical leadership on business cases and transition opportunities. * Use established organizational procedures, phase-gate controls, and applicable safety, quality, and export-control requirements; support process improvements and lessons learned. * Adapt plans and priorities as technical discoveries, resource availability, and business needs evolve., * Independently assumes primary program ownership after onboarding and successfully manages scope, budget, schedules, and risk. * Delivers program milestones and phase-gate decisions with disciplined financial and technical oversight. * Advances technology readiness while maintaining realistic scope and effective use of shared resources. * Provides concise, reliable executive-level program reporting and timely escalation of issues. * Maintains safety, quality, and regulatory compliance while adapting to changing priorities. Work Environment Fully on-site, Monday through Friday. Daily hours align with the assigned engineering teams. Occasional travel (approximately 5%) may include Chandler, AZ; Hollister, CA; and potentially Solon, OH. The role operates in a collaborative, fast-changing, hardware-development environment. Relocation assistance may be considered for a qualified candidate, subject to approval.