Job Description: Technical Program Manager / Lead Engineer

Location: South New Hampshire (Onsite)
Salary: $165k (Base) + Quarterly/Annual Bonus + Equity Plan

Key Responsibilities

• Program and Technical Management
• Define programmatic and technical requirements based on proposals, Statements of Work (SoW), and technical specifications.
• Lead the efficient fulfilment of all technical requirements, ensuring the project stays on schedule and within scope.
• Define work breakdown structures (WBS) and produce/update detailed project schedules.
• Assemble, coordinate, and lead cross-functional teams to deliver projects on time and to specification.
• Identify risks and manage changes to programs, ensuring timely resolution and mitigation strategies.
• Develop and implement detailed plans to meet technical and performance milestones.
• Oversee engineering tasks related to mechanical design, optical alignment, and electronic test/integration processes.
• Lead or participate in technical reviews and program status meetings (TIMs).
• Cultivate strong relationships with customers, ensuring clear communication and the successful management of expectations.
• Lead and collaborate with the engineering team, providing guidance on technical challenges and decision-making.
• Work closely with AIRS tech leads to ensure smooth communication and project coordination.
• Oversee and mentor engineers, ensuring they have the necessary resources and support to meet project requirements.
• Understand and manage program contracts, including Terms and Conditions (T&Cs), FAR and DFAR clauses, and related regulatory requirements.

Qualifications & Experience

• BS/MS in Mechanical Engineering (ME), Electrical Engineering (EE), or related field.
• 10+ years of experience in sensor-based electro-optical products for the DoD or related industries, with a focus on infrared, thermal imaging, and opto-mechanical systems.
• Strong background in infrared or electro-optical systems, with a good understanding of mechanical design, optical alignment, and electronic test/integration processes.
• Proficiency in SolidWorks and FEA (Finite Element Analysis) software is a plus.
• Experience working with vacuum systems, cooled infrared thermal cameras, and electro-optical systems is highly desirable.
• Prior experience with customer interaction and resolving technical needs.
• Strong client management skills, with a track record of successful relationship-building.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to explain complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage complex projects.
• Familiarity with FAR, DFAR clauses, and contract management in a DoD environment.