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Senior Technical Program Manager

Firestorm

Job Location:

San Diego, CA - USA

Monthly Salary: $ 150000 - 165000

Posted: 10 August 2026 (18 hours ago)

Application Deadline: 7 November 2026

Vacancies: 1 Vacancy

Department:

Engineering

Job Summary

Who We Are

At Firestorm we are building the future of expeditionary defense manufacturing and autonomous systems. Modern conflict has exposed a fundamental problem: the systems needed most by operators are often too expensive too slow to produce and too difficult to sustain at scale. Firestorm exists to change that.

We develop mission-adaptable aerial systems and deployable manufacturing infrastructure designed to put capability directly into the hands of the warfighter. From modular unmanned aircraft to xCell our deployable microfactory our goal is to make defense systems rapidly deployable adaptable and producible at the point of need.

We are looking for builders operators and problem-solvers who want to work on meaningful technology with real-world impact.

About the Role

As a Senior Technical Program Manager at Firestorm you will take charge of mission-critical programs that push the boundaries of aerospace and defense technologies. Youll be responsible for overseeing the end-to-end execution of complex projects ensuring the seamless integration of technical schedule and cost objectives to deliver innovative high-performance systems.

This is an exciting opportunity for a seasoned program manager to influence key decisions lead cross-functional teams and drive both innovation and operational excellence in programs that directly impact national security. You will collaborate closely with Business Development Operations and Engineering teams maintaining a strong focus on program execution customer satisfaction and delivering cutting-edge technologies that meet the highest standards.

What Youll Do:

Create maintain and track detailed program schedules budgets and resource plans for global programs guiding them from concept through New Product Introduction (NPI) and full deployment.
Advocate for program resources budget and priority ensuring alignment with organizational goals and customer expectations.
Monitor and report on program and project status highlighting key metrics and milestones and driving accountability across teams.
Proactively identify assess and mitigate program risks escalating when necessary to ensure that objectives are met on time and within budget.
Lead the development of solutions to resolve program issues ensuring timely delivery cost efficiency and technical excellence.
Ensure compliance with industry standards regulatory requirements and internal policies across all program phases.
Implement and oversee variant management strategies ensuring seamless integration and delivery of tailored solutions.
Negotiate terms related to performance delivery and cost with Sales and Business Development ensuring that all agreements align with program goals.
Act as the primary point of contact for coordination between engineering product manufacturing quality and business teams to drive collaboration and successful execution.
Act as the primary customer contact for program activities including project and program reviews ensuring strong communication and stakeholder satisfaction.
Partner with Marketing Sales and Business Development teams to produce customer-facing documentation ensuring it aligns with program objectives and client needs.
Work and negotiate with vendors on contracts and agreements to secure necessary resources and services for program execution.
Coordinate planning preparation and execution of product demonstrations and test events showcasing technical capabilities and meeting customer requirements.
Collaborate with Engineering teams to continually improve product offerings advocating for new features and innovations that will benefit the program and exceed customer expectations.
Lead cross-functional teams fostering a culture of collaboration accountability and continuous improvement.

RequiredQualifications:

U.S. Citizenship required & the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) security clearance.
Bachelors degree in Aerospace Mechanical Electrical Engineering or a related technical field.
7 years of experience leading and managing complex technical programs preferably in aerospace defense or electromechanical systems; Or 9 years of relevant experience in lieu of a degree).
Proven ability to integrate cost schedule and technical baselines for high-impact cross-functional programs.
Strong leadership and communication skills with the ability to manage multiple teams and maintain stakeholder alignment.
Experience in preparing reviewing and submitting proposals and/or requests for quotes (RFQs) for aerospace or engineering programs.
Expertise in project management tools like Jira MS Project or equivalent for managing complex projects.

Preferred Qualifications:

Masters degree in Engineering Engineering Management or an MBA.
Experience managing programs in a cross-functional geographically dispersed environment.
Experience working with UAS and familiarity with DoD standards and regulations.
Ability to refine and develop processes tools and templates for more efficient program execution.
Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to mentor lead and motivate teams to success.
Experience with military personnel or defense contractors particularly in managing complex defense programs.

Work Environment

Based at our Headquarters in San Diego CA.
Occasional travel up to 10% domestically to engage with customers vendors and support program milestones.
We welcome candidates who are local or open to relocating. Relocation assistance is available and may be included in the offer package where appropriate.

Compensation

US Salary Range: $150000 - $165000 USD

The posted salary range reflects an estimate based on a variety of compensation factors including but not limited to relevant experience education certifications specialized skills geographic location and business needs. Actual compensation may vary and this range is subject to change as our compensation structure or market conditions evolve.

Benefits & Perks

Our culture fosters collaboration respect and trust empowering passionate people to do their best work. We offer a competitive salary comprehensive benefits and opportunities for career addition to an opportunity to take part in an innovative collaborative and fast-growing business with a highly motivated and skilled team we also take pride in taking care of our employees. Here are just a few ways that we show our appreciation:

We offer comprehensive medical dental and visions plans
401(k) Retirement Savings Plan to invest in your long-term retirement goals
Unlimited PTO
Extremely generous company holiday calendar including a holiday hiatus in December
Generous Parental Leave
FSA
HSA
Hospital Indemnity insurance
Critical Illness insurance
Accident insurance
Basic Life/AD&D short-term and long-term disability insurance 100% covered by the option to purchase additional life insurance for you and your family.
Mental Health Resources: We provide free mental health resources 24/7 including therapy and more. Additional work-life services such as free legal and financial support are available to you as well.

Export Control Compliance

To conform to U.S. government export control regulations including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and Export Administration Regulations (EAR) you must be a U.S. citizen lawful permanent resident of the U.S. protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3) or otherwise eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State or U.S. Department of Commerce.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Firestorm is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace and upholding equitable hiring practices. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race color religion sex sexual orientation gender identity national origin disability protected veteran status or any other characteristic under federal state or local law including those with a criminal history in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws including the CA Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. We actively encourage members of recognized minorities women Veterans and those with disabilities to apply and we work to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all applicants throughout the interview process.

Firestorm is committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible work environment. If you require accommodations or assistance during the application process please dont hesitate to reach out to us atso we can provide the support you need.

Required Experience:

Senior IC

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