Space Segment - Program Manager

Rock West Composites is seeking a Program Manager to lead complex space structure programs from concept through production within our Space Structures segment. This is an onsite position at our San Diego, CA HQ facility.

This role owns execution across scope, cost, schedule, and customer satisfaction. You’ll work cross-functionally with engineering, manufacturing, supply chain, and leadership to deliver high-quality composite products while managing risk, performance, and customer expectations.

This is a hands-on role for someone who can lead programs end-to-end, build strong customer relationships, and drive results in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

What You’ll Own

• Full lifecycle program ownership from proposal through delivery and closure


• Customer relationships and overall program satisfaction


• Program performance across budget, schedule, technical scope, and risk


• Cross-functional execution with Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, and Supply Chain


• Change management, contract alignment, and program profitability

Key Responsibilities

Program Execution

• Lead programs from concept through production and final delivery


• Develop and manage program plans, including scope, schedule, budget, and technical requirements


• Monitor performance and proactively address risks, issues, and constraints


• Ensure alignment between customer requirements and internal execution

Customer & Business Management

• Serve as the primary point of contact for customers throughout the program lifecycle


• Develop proposals and statements of work, including cost estimates and technical scope


• Identify scope changes and manage contract modifications


• Support business development efforts and contribute to order growth

Cross-Functional Leadership

• Drive alignment across Engineering, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, and Quality teams


• Coordinate resources, priorities, and timelines to meet program objectives


• Support company-wide planning for manpower, cash flow, and production

Financial & Performance Management

• Develop and manage program budgets, forecasts, and cost tracking


• Ensure programs meet financial targets and profitability expectations


• Analyze performance and implement corrective actions as needed

Technical & Product Oversight

• Define product requirements and ensure alignment with customer specifications


• Establish methods for verifying product performance and quality (buy-off criteria)


• Support development of manufacturing and inspection approaches

What You Bring

Experience

• 6–10+ years of program management experience in a manufacturing environment


• Experience leading programs involving engineering, production, and customer delivery


• Strong background in managing budgets, schedules, and performance metrics


• Experience working directly with customers and managing expectations

Technical Background

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Materials Science, or related field (or equivalent experience)


• Familiarity with composite materials and manufacturing processes preferred

Skills & Capabilities

• Strong leadership and cross-functional coordination skills


• Ability to manage multiple programs and priorities simultaneously


• Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities


• Effective communicator with both technical and non-technical stakeholders


• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint, etc.)

Additional Requirements

• Must be a U.S. Person (due to ITAR requirements)


• Ability to pass background check and drug screening

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary Range: $140,000 – $190,000 (based on experience and skillset)


• 100% Employer-Paid Medical & Dental


• Annual Bonus Program


• 401(k) with 5% Match


• Employee Stock Option Program


• 9/80 Work Schedule (every other Friday off)


• 8 Paid Holidays + Generous PTO (up to 4 weeks after 5 years)


• $2,500 Tuition Reimbursement

Why Rock West Composites:

At Rock West, you’ll work on high-performance composite structures supporting cutting-edge aerospace and space programs. This role offers direct impact on program success, exposure to cross-functional leadership, and the opportunity to grow within a fast-paced, engineering-driven environment.

We’re a team that values accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement and we take pride in delivering complex solutions for demanding customers.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Rock West Composites is an Equal Opportunity Employer. It is the policy of the company to provide equal opportunity for all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, religious creed, ancestry, gender, pregnancy, sex, sexual orientation, transitioning status, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, genetic information, military and veteran status, marital status, medical condition, mental disability, physical disability, or any other basis protected by local, state, or federal law. EEO is the law. We also prohibit compensation discrimination under all applicable laws. Certain positions require meeting the U.S. Person definition in 22 CFR 120.62.

ITAR Requirement

To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder) as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(20), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. 1158, Must be authorized to work in the U.S. without the company’s immigration sponsorship now or in the future. Rock West Composites will not offer immigration sponsorship for this position. Rock West Composites will not seek an export authorization for this role. Rock West Composites maintains a Drug and Alcohol-Free Workplace. Depending on state law and the nature of the position, candidates who receive a conditional offer of employment may be required to complete a drug screening. Rock West Composites may also conduct drug and alcohol testing based on reasonable suspicion, post-incident, or for safety-sensitive positions as permitted by law.

Accommodation Notice

If you are an individual with a disability and require a reasonable accommodation to complete any part of the application process, or are limited in the ability or unable to access or use this online application process and need an alternative method for applying, you may contact 858-537-6260.