Associate Director, Defense Development Programs

Date Posted:

2024-05-22

Country:

United States of America

Location:

HAL02: Aerostructures-Foley 1300 West Fern Ave, Foley, AL, 36535 USA

Position Role Type:

Hybrid

Are you ready to take on this challenging leadership position and drive program success with exciting outcomes for our military customer?

Collins Aerospace is currently seeking a highly motivated Associate Director for Military Development Programs to join our dynamic team. In this pivotal role, you will serve as the primary program management interface for our global defense and commercial-derivative customers, overseeing all aspects of product and process development from concept to manufacture.

As the Associate Director, you will play a key leadership role in ensuring seamless communication and alignment between both internal and external stakeholders. Your expertise will be crucial in ensuring that all requirements and expectations are met, driving continuous improvement initiatives throughout the assigned program portfolio.

This role is remote: you will work primarily offsite (from home) with an expectation of up to 50% travel to site locations as needed.

What You Will Do: 

• Lead cross-functional teams to execute complex aerospace development programs and new product introduction; defining program objectives, scope, milestones, and deliverables aligned with customer requirements and business goals to ensure timely delivery.

• Develop, manage, and forecast program budgets, employing Earned Value Management and other reporting methods for precise tracking and reporting. Implement cost control measures to identify savings opportunities while maintaining quality and performance standards. Provide financial analysis and present program performance to senior management.

• Mitigate program risks through effective risk management practices. Develop contingency plans and manage change control processes to address unforeseen challenges ensuring compliance with all regulatory and contractual requirements.

• Mentor and develop program management staff, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.

• Promote a collaborative team environment, encouraging innovation and accountability while providing performance feedback that supports professional growth opportunities for team members.

• Travel up to 50% domestically

Qualifications You Must Have:

• A University Degree or equivalent experience and minimum 12 years prior relevant experience, or An Advanced Degree in a related field and minimum 10 years’ experience

• The ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government issued security clearance is required

• U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are eligible for a security clearance

• 10 years of program management, engineering, or contracting experience within the Aerospace Defense Industry

Qualifications We Prefer:

• Bachelor’s or Advanced degree in Mechanical/Structural Engineering or related field

• Experience leading IPT’s; collaborating with engineering, manufacturing, supply chain, and quality assurance functions

• Proficiency in MS Project, and familiarity with CAD software and engineering design tools such as CATIA

• PMP or similar project management certification

• Direct involvement in defense procurement processes, including proposal development, contract negotiation, and experience in the contract lifecycle from RFP/RFQ to contract closeout

• Comprehensive understanding of the FAR and DFAR; experience ensuring compliance in meeting regulatory requirements within aerospace programs

• Proven track record in managing contracted defense programs; including FFP, CPFF, and T&M

• Experience managing defense-related development programs ensuring alignment with DoD acquisition milestones and deliverables

What We Offer:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance

• Three weeks of vacation for newly hired employees

• Generous 401(k) plan that includes employer matching funds and separate employer retirement contribution, including a Lifetime Income Strategy option

• Tuition reimbursement program

• Student Loan Repayment Program

• Life insurance and disability coverage

• Optional coverages you can buy: pet insurance, home and auto insurance, additional life and accident insurance, critical illness insurance, group legal, ID theft protection

• Birth, adoption, parental leave benefits

• Ovia