Job Summary
Cirrus Aircraft is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Program Manager to lead complex new product development efforts within our Aircraft Engineering Division. This strategic role will be responsible for driving execution excellence across multi-disciplinary teams, managing the full program lifecycle, and delivering innovative aviation solutions that meet or exceed customer and business expectations.

The Program Manager will oversee integrated cost, schedule, technical performance, and risk management across assigned programs, ensuring alignment with enterprise objectives and compliance with applicable regulatory and contractual requirements. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership, communication, and analytical skills and be adept at leading in a matrixed engineering and manufacturing environment.

This position requires a proactive, detail-oriented leader with demonstrated experience in aerospace or defense development programs, and the ability to manage complex technical projects in a highly dynamic and regulated industry.

Duties and Responsibilities / Essential Functions

• Lead cross-functional Integrated Product Teams (IPTs) through all phases of the program lifecycle (proposal, design, development, integration, test, certification, production, and sustainment).
• Ensure program success by managing scope, cost, schedule, risk, and quality in alignment with corporate objectives, customer requirements, and contractual obligations.
• Drive development and execution of integrated master plans and schedules (IMS), leveraging industry-standard tools and methodologies (e.g., Earned Value Management Systems (EVMS), Critical Path Method, Work Breakdown Structure).
• Serve as the primary point of contact for internal and external stakeholders, including executive leadership, customers, suppliers, and regulatory bodies.
• Prepare and deliver high-quality executive-level briefings, program status reports, and performance reviews.
• Champion risk and opportunity management throughout the program lifecycle; implement mitigation strategies as needed.
• Apply disciplined project management processes and continuous improvement techniques (e.g., Six Sigma, Lean) to maximize efficiency and program outcomes.
• Develop, coach, and mentor team members; foster a culture of accountability, transparency, and high performance.
• Oversee program financials, including budgeting, forecasting, capitalization, and reporting.
• Drive decision-making during program initiation and planning to optimize product architecture, technical trades, and resource allocation.
• Travel up to 25 may be required to support program needs.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelors degree required; STEM discipline (Engineering, Mathematics, or Physical Sciences) highly desirable.
• 10+ years of relevant program or project management experience, preferably in aerospace, defense, or advanced manufacturing environments.
• Demonstrated success leading cross-functional teams on complex technical programs.
• PMP certification preferred (required within 12 months of hire).
• Deep understanding of program management principles, including EVMS, schedule risk analysis, and performance metrics (CPI/SPI).
• Proficiency in project scheduling tools (e.g., Microsoft Project, Primavera) and dashboard/reporting tools (e.g., Tableau, Microsoft Power BI).
• Experience with financial modeling, cost estimating, and business case development.
• Strong supervisory skills and experience developing talent within matrixed teams.
• Exceptional interpersonal, negotiation, and communication skills across all organizational levels.
• Risk management expertise and strategic decision-making capabilities.

Preferred Qualifications

• Masters degree in Business, Engineering, or related technical field.
• Aerospace/Defense industry experience with familiarity in DoD, FAA, or equivalent regulatory frameworks.
• Background in managing new product development through certification and transition to production.
• Continuous improvement certification (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma Green/Black Belt).
• Experience working with external suppliers and subcontractors, including contract negotiations and compliance oversight.

Key Competencies

• Strategic Thinking & Decision Making
• Cross-functional Leadership
• Risk & Opportunity Management
• Stakeholder Engagement & Communication
• Conflict Management
• Resiliency & Adaptability
• Talent Development

Our Benefits: Cirrus provides a range of exciting benefits, including:

• 401(k) Plan: Dollar-for-dollar match up to 5 after 90 days, with 100 vesting.
• Employer-Paid Coverages: Group term life, short- and long-term disability insurance.
• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, vision, dental, with additional dependent coverage options.
• Free Health Tracking: With rewards for meeting health goals.
• Generous PTO: 160 hours accrued within the first year.
• Employee Referral Bonus: For referring talented candidates.
• Career Development: Tuition reimbursement and professional growth opportunities.
• Exclusive Discounts: Access to partner and marketplace discounts.
• Community & Engagement: Company and employee clubs at various locations.

These benefits are designed to support your well-being, growth, and enjoyment at Cirrus!

Other Duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this position. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice. Work beyond 40 hours per week may be required.

Cirrus is dedicated to a drug free work environment promoting equal employment opportunity. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, sex, national origin, color, age, disability, religion, pregnancy, veteran status, marital and family status, sexual orientation, receipt of public assistance, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.