Job Description

CareerPaths NW is seeking an experienced Program Manager / Engineering Lead to provide technical and programmatic leadership across multiple Lunar vehicle subsystem development efforts. This role oversees the coordination, execution, and delivery of engineering activities spanning design, card design, fluid hardware, and thermal analysis disciplines during preliminary and critical design phases.

The ideal candidate will bring a blend of strong engineering acumen and proven project management expertise in complex aerospace programs. This position requires collaboration with cross-functional teams to ensure technical excellence, schedule adherence, and milestone delivery from concept through build-start readiness.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead multidisciplinary engineering teams responsible for subsystem design, integration, and verification.
• Define project scope, objectives, and deliverables aligned with program milestones and technical requirements.
• Develop and maintain project schedules, risk assessments, and resource plans to ensure on-time, high-quality delivery.
• Facilitate coordination between design, electrical, thermal, and fluid hardware engineering groups to ensure system compatibility and cohesive execution.
• Conduct design and program reviews, including PDR/CDR milestones, ensuring readiness for manufacturing and build-start.
• Serve as a key liaison between engineering, operations, and leadership teams to communicate progress, risks, and mitigation strategies.
• Support configuration control, documentation, and adherence to quality and regulatory standards.
• Drive continuous improvement in processes, communication, and cross-team efficiency.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelors degree in Engineering, Program Management, or related technical discipline.
• 8+ years of experience managing engineering programs or leading multidisciplinary technical teams in aerospace, defense, or complex system development.
• Demonstrated success delivering programs through preliminary and critical design phases.
• Strong understanding of system engineering principles, design verification, and production readiness.
• Proficiency with project management tools (e.g., MS Project, Smartsheet, or equivalent).
• Excellent organizational, leadership, and communication skills with the ability to interface across technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Preferred Qualifications

• Masters degree in Engineering or Technical Management.
• Experience leading cross-functional teams supporting spaceflight or mission-critical hardware.
• Familiarity with risk management, Earned Value Management (EVM), or other performance tracking methodologies.
• Experience coordinating teams using agile or hybrid project methodologies.

Our Diverse and Inclusive Culture

CareerPaths NW is a Seattle-based, minority-owned staffing and recruiting firm proudly serving clients and candidates for more than 17 years. Were passionate about connecting great people with meaningful opportunities and fostering a workplace built on trust, collaboration, and respect.

We value integrity, transparency, and genuine partnership, and we believe diverse perspectives make us stronger.

Benefits include:

• Up to three weeks of paid time off (PTO)
• Eleven paid holidays
• Matching 401(k) plan
• 100% employer-paid medical insurance premiums

CareerPaths NW is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and experiences.

If this sounds like a place you'd like to grow your career, visit us at www.careerpathsnw.com/contract-jobs/