Program Manager III

5223817No5313297510.00.029-May-2026Program Manager IIIGeneral Atomics Aeronautical Systems

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), an affiliate of General Atomics, is a world leader in proven, reliable remotely piloted aircraft and tactical reconnaissance radars, as well as advanced high-resolution surveillance systems.

We have an exciting opportunity for a experienced Program Manager to join our MQ-9 Retrofit team in Poway, CA. This position typically reports to a senior program manager and is responsible for the planning, managing and technical performance of one or more developed or mature engineering program(s) contained at a single location. Manages programs which have well defined program plans and delivery methodologies. Leads all phases of assigned program(s) from initiation through delivery. Responsible for program(s) which represent stable growth. Applies established technologies using standard principles, theories, concepts, and techniques to provide solutions to a variety of technical problems. Typically accomplishes objectives through subordinate managers. Responsible for decisions that could impact outcomes where erroneous decisions could cause serious schedule delays and expenditure of additional time and resources.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Manage all phases of the program(s) from conceptualization through completion, including acquisition, planning, and managing technical performance to ensure quality, business, and financial objectives are attained.
• Develop and coordinate program plans or delivery methods which usually serve a single customer.
• Participate with technical staff and/or Division/Group executive management to develop and implement current, annual, and long-term technical, schedule, quality, business, and financial objectives for the program(s). May also contribute to the development of Group/Company objectives.
• Participate in engineering to establish design concepts, criteria, and engineering efforts for product research, development, testing, and integration.
• Interact with internal and external representatives at various levels concerning resolution of technical and scheduling issues. Act as primary contact for program issues.
• Influence, and coordinate the preparation of proposals, business plans, proposal work statements and specifications, operating budgets, and financial terms/conditions of contract(s). Influence contract acquisitions, negotiations and modifications.
• Ensuring technical leadership and excellence is maintained by participating in the planning, attraction, selection, retention, and development of the required management, professional, and technical talent.
• Act as the primary customer contact for program activities and may lead program review sessions with customers to discuss cost, schedule, and technical performance.
• Identify program issues and provide leadership in developing solutions such as re-allocation of resources or modifying contract specifications.
• Contribute to the development of new business opportunities and expansion of existing business opportunities. May participate with Group management in pursuing business partnerships, alliances, and joint ventures that enhance the capabilities of the Group/Company and may result in new products, programs and business opportunities.
• Manage the development of and ensure the security of proprietary technology and maintain the strict confidentiality of sensitive information.
• Responsible for ensuring all laws, regulations and other applicable obligations are observed wherever and whenever business is conducted on behalf of the Company.
• Responsible for ensuring work is accomplished in a safe manner in accordance with established operating procedures and practices.

We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.

Highlights Working For GA-ASI:

• This position is eligible for the Individual Compensation Program (ICP) bonus.
• This position is eligible for a hybrid work environment (up to 1 day/week remote work from home) pending project needs.
• Outstanding benefits including: 401(k) (with company match), company pension, on site cafeterias, gyms and outdoor recreation centers, unlimited access to discounted tickets for amusement parks such as San Diego Zoo and Safari Park.
• Outstanding work environment: team-centric, value and respect all contributors, great growth potential within GA-ASI project engineering and GA-ASI as a whole.

55193BRProgram/Project Management 0% - 25% Full-Time Salary California Secret112,320PowayDesired205,058Program Manager MQ-9 Retrofits

• Typically requires a Bachelors, Masters or PhD in engineering, science or a related technical field as well as eleven or more years of progressively complex program administration experience. May substitute equivalent experience in lieu of education.
• Demonstrates technical expertise and application of program management principles, concepts, and practice as well as program management and leadership skills including organizing, planning, scheduling, and coordinating workloads to meet established deadlines or milestones.
• Must be able to develop solutions to problems that require coordination of technologies across program requirements.
• Strong communication, leadership, presentation, and interpersonal skills are required to enable an effective interface with other departments, all levels of management, professional and support staff, customers, potential customers, and government representatives.
• Customer focused, must be able to work on a self-initiated basis and in a team environment.
• Able to work extended hours and travel as required.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance is required.

YesSenior (8+ years) NoHybrid