Deputy Project Manager

JOB OVERVIEW

JOB TITLE

Deputy Program Manager

DEPARTMENT

Operations

JOB GROUP /

P&E REQUIREMENTS

Administrative

REPORTS TO

Program Manager

FLSA STATUS/EXEMPTION

Exempt

MISSION OF THE POSITION

The Deputy PM role is responsible for providing strategic support, operational oversight, and technical expertise to ensure program objectives are met on time, within scope, and within budget. This role involves leading program initiation, planning, execution, and closure while driving collaboration across multiple departments. With a focus on problem-solving, risk management, and fostering transparency, the Deputy PM contributes to achieving program goals through innovative solutions and adherence to industry best practices.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

Program Leadership

Provide strategic direction to ensure program objectives are met on time, within scope, and within budget.

Oversee program initiation, planning, execution, and closure, ensuring alignment with company goals.

Develop and manage detailed project plans, schedules, budgets, and resource allocations.

Collaborate with Engineering and Operations teams to develop and execute a subcontract strategy and strategic make/buy decisions that align with Starlab's growth objectives.

Execute a supplier relationship strategy that leverages leadership across divisions to manage suppliers effectively and align with enterprise strategies.

Facilitate collaboration between engineering, manufacturing, supply chain, and other departments to achieve program goals.

Utilize program management best practices and agile methodologies to enhance efficiency and process improvements.

Problem Solving and Risk Management

Proactively identify potential risks, develop mitigation strategies, and implement corrective actions.

Lead the development and maintenance of Risk, Issues, and Opportunities (RIO) management process.

Conduct root cause analysis to address challenges and improve program performance.

Monitor dependencies and implement recovery planning to maintain program momentum.

Drive systemic process improvements to reduce risk and enhance operational efficiency.

Communication and Collaboration

Build and maintain relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including executives, clients, and team members.

Develop and deliver program status updates, presentations, and communication materials to senior leadership.

Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams to align on goals and priorities.

Demonstrate strong interpersonal skills to foster a culture of accountability and transparency.

Exhibit emotional intelligence in navigating organizational dynamics and resolving conflicts.

Technical Expertise

Apply advanced technical knowledge in engineering, supply chain management, manufacturing, and compliance to achieve program objectives.

Utilize tools and methodologies such as EVMS, CAM, BOE, Lean principles, and Agile project management frameworks.

Develop and review technical proposals, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.

Ensure accurate forecasting of resources, costs, and performance metrics for effective program execution.

Collaborate with engineering teams to resolve technical challenges and drive innovation.

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

Support the creation and maintenance of program master assumptions while refining key performance indicators (KPIs) to enhance airplane build processes.

Perform additional duties as assigned.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

Lead cross-functional teams to deliver program milestones and quality deliverables.

Lead build integration teams to optimize airplane build through structures completion, wiring and system installation, functional testing, and interiors installation.

Manage, develop, and mentor teams to maximize employee engagement and performance.

Provide clear leadership and vision to ensure team alignment with program objectives.

COMPETENCIES

EDUCATION

• Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD in engineering or a related technical field from an accredited institution.

CERTIFICATIONS & LICENSES

• PMP or equivalent certification completed or in progress.

EXPERIENCE

• 7+ years of experience managing or leading the planning and execution of programs and projects, preferably in the space industry.

• Experience with RIO (Risk, Issues, and Opportunities) in project planning.
• Demonstrate full cycle Deputy PM experience.
• Experience delivering technical leadership in project management for space industry initiatives.
• Demonstrated ability to prepare presentation materials and deliver them effectively to key stakeholders.
• Familiarity with Agile project management methodologies.

TALENTS

• Must possess the ability to understand new concepts quickly and apply them accurately throughout an evolving environment and organize work assignments to meet established timetables.
• Results-oriented with the ability to maintain focus on program success and long-term organizational goals.
• Strong team leadership, presentation, and interpersonal skills to effectively interface with other departments, all levels of management, professional and support staff, customers, and potential customers.
• Strong communication, computer, documentation, presentation, and interpersonal skills are required, as well as the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Demonstrates flexibility and adaptability, including the ability to work extended hours when required and adjust to shifting priorities and workloads.

EMPLOYEE ACKNOWLEDGMENT

My signature below acknowledges that I have received, read and understand this job description, and that I am expected to consistently demonstrate the primary job duties, additional responsibilities and core competencies of the position with or without reasonable accommodation. Furthermore, I acknowledge that I may be expected to perform additional tasks and projects as assigned, and I agree to perform such tasks and projects, along with the primary duties of my job, in accordance with the performance standards and expectations set forth by the company.

Employee Name (Printed)

Employee Signature Date

Manager Signature Date