Internal Research and Development Program Manager - Edge Autonomy

WORK LOCATION: San Luis Obispo, CA or Huntsville, AL

SALARY RANGE: San Luis Obispo : $140,610 - $209,532

                               Huntsville, AL : $ 124,856 - $186,057

FLSA STATUS: Exempt

SUMMARY

The Internal Research and Development (IRAD) Program Manager (PM) is a pivotal role within the organization, tasked with overseeing and coordinating all IRAD projects to drive innovation and strategic growth. This position is responsible for managing a diverse portfolio of projects that receive approval and sponsorship from senior leadership, including the Chief Technology Officer, Chief Product Officer, and Product Owners.  The ideal candidate will possess a strong blend of technical knowledge and program management expertise, allowing them to navigate the complexities of the IRAD process effectively. They will be responsible for ensuring that all projects are delivered on time and within budget while aligning with the company's strategic objectives.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• The following job functions are a basic requirement but are not limited to and may be assigned other duties.
• Project Oversight: Lead and manage the planning, execution, and delivery of IRAD projects, ensuring adherence to established timelines and budgets.
• Leadership: Lead the Project Engineers and Technical Leads assigned to the IRAD projects.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Collaborate closely with senior leadership and cross-functional teams to align project goals with organizational priorities and secure necessary resources.
• Performance Monitoring: Track project progress and performance metrics, implementing adjustments as needed to mitigate risks and optimize outcomes.
• Process Improvement: Continuously evaluate and enhance the IRAD process, promoting best practices and fostering a culture of innovation within the team.
• Reporting and Communication: Prepare regular updates and reports for stakeholders, articulating project status, challenges, and successes.
• Tracks and reports on program performance metrics including schedule performance
• Establishes milestones and monitors adherence to master plans and schedules
• Tracks and manages issues/risks by working with internal and outside team members and stakeholders to determine mitigation and containment

QUALIFICATIONS

The following are a non-exhaustive list of qualifications for the position: 

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business Administration, Project Management, or a related field. A Master's degree or MBA is preferred.
• 10+ years of experience in program or project management, ideally within research and development or technology-driven industries.
• Proven track record of managing multiple projects simultaneously, with a focus on innovation and product development.
• Project Management Professional (PMP) or equivalent certification is highly desirable.
• Agile or Scrum certification is a plus.
• Strong understanding of the IRAD process and methodologies.
• Familiarity with project management software and tools (e.g., MS Project, JIRA).
• Demonstrated experience in leading cross-functional teams and managing stakeholder relationships.
• Ability to inspire and motivate team members while fostering a collaborative work environment.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a focus on data-driven decision-making.
• Experience in budgeting, forecasting, and cost management.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey complex information clearly and effectively.
• Proven ability to engage and influence senior leadership and diverse stakeholders.
• Flexibility to adapt to changing priorities and a dynamic work environment.
• Willingness to embrace new technologies and methodologies.
• Ability to align projects with organizational goals and long-term vision.
• Experience in identifying opportunities for process improvement and innovation.
• Strong interpersonal skills and a collaborative mindset.
• Commitment to fostering a positive team culture and driving collective success.
• Gated design development experience (PDR, CDR)
• Experience in Defense, Government contracting and Aerospace, preferably in the UAV market

EDGE AUTONOMY BENEFITS

• Matching 401(k)
• Paid PTO
• Paid holidays
• Medical, vision, and dental insurance
• Group Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
• HSA and FSA Options
• Critical Care Plan
• Accident Care Plan

HIRING REQUIREMENTS

If an offer of employment offer is extended, applicant must have the ability to pass a background check and the ability to be insured by the Company’s Auto-policy. An Offer of Employment is contingent upon the results.

CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS

This position may require access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations (“ITAR”) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (“EAR”). To comply with the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicants will be asked to provide specific documentation to verify a US person’s status.

EDGE AUTONOMY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Edge Autonomy is committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, contact jobs@edgeautonomy.io

Continued employment remains on an “At-Will” basis.