Development Sensor Program Manager

Standard Job Description

Directs all phases of programs from inception through completion. Responsible for coordinating subordinate employee recruitment, selection and training, performance assessment, work assignments, salary, and recognition/disciplinary actions. Responsible for the cost, schedule and technical performance of company programs or subsystems of major programs. Participates in the negotiation of contract and contract changes. Coordinates the preparation of proposals, business plans, proposal work statements and specifications, operating budgets and financial terms/conditions of contract. Acts as primary customer contact for program activities, leading program review sessions with customer to discuss cost, schedule, and technical performance. Establishes design concepts, criteria and engineering efforts for product research, development, integration and test. Develops new business or expands the product line with the customer. Establishes milestones and monitors adherence to master plans and schedules, identifies program problems and obtains solutions, such as allocation of resources or changing contractual specifications. Directs the work of employees assigned to the program from technical, manufacturing and administrative areas.

You will be the Development Sensor Program Manager for the Large Format Infrared Sensor Development Team. Our team is responsible for the development and transition to production of large‑format infrared sensors.

What You Will Be Doing

As the Development Sensor Program Manager you will be responsible for leading cross‑functional matrix teams to deliver, mature, and scale production of advanced IR sensor programs.

Your responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:

• Direct all phases of program execution from concept through flight qualification and delivery.
• Lead financial and schedule performance, ensuring cost commitments and on‑time milestones.
• Drive market growth by partnering with Business Development on proposals and capture strategies.
• Mentor and coach cross‑functional IPTs across engineering, operations, supply chain, and quality.
• Oversee product maturation and scaling production of large‑format IR sensors.

Why Join Us

The ideal candidate is a collaborative leader with a proven track record of managing complex programs and delivering results. This role offers high visibility, the chance to shape a growing market, and the resources to innovate in advanced sensor technology.

We are committed to supporting your work‑life balance and overall well‑being, offering flexible scheduling options. Learn more about Lockheed Martin’s comprehensive benefits package here.

Further Information About This Opportunity

This position is located in Goleta, CA.  Discover more about Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control.

MUST BE A U.S. CITIZEN - This position is located at a facility that requires special access.

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in engineering, physics, business or a related technical discipline.
•  8 or more years of related work experience (6 or more with advanced degree) some of which is in the aerospace and defense industry or high technology field
•  Program Management, Project Management, Project Engineering and/or Systems Engineering experience
•  Experience communicating technical and business information effectively to groups and executive stakeholders
•  Ability to obtain a DoD Secret Clearance within 24 months of hire.

Desired Skills

• Has an active Secret Clearance or higher
• Technical and business familiarity with IR sensors.
• Strong working relationships with functions and internal stakeholders such as supply chain, engineering, operations and finance, as well as customers, government representatives, prime customers and internal peers.
• Experience with managing programs throughout the product life cycle including hardware design and development and product qualification. 
• Experience in creating and managing detailed execution plans.
• Understanding of engineering design processes and production operations processes.
• Exceptional executive-level communication and presentation skills and ability to address complex matters and solutions with senior leadership.
• Experience managing cost, schedule, and performance for programs with use of program management tools such as Earned Value Management System (EVMS), Risk and Opportunity Management and/or similar business practices.
• Experience supporting capture management, proposal activity, and developing unit cost targets.
• Ability to travel domestically as the need arises to support supplier and customer business engagements.