Sr. Program Manager, Directed Energy
Date: Nov 28, 2025
Location: Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD, Remote, United States
Company: HII's Mission Technologies division
Requisition Number: 26204
Required Travel: 0 - 10%
Employment Type: Full Time/Hourly/Non-Exempt
Anticipated Salary Range: $143,088.00 - $225,000.00
Security Clearance: Ability to Obtain
Level of Experience: Senior
Employee Referral Amount: $3,000.00
Meet HII’s Mission Technologies Division
Our team of more than 7,000 professionals worldwide delivers all-domain expertise and advanced technologies in service of mission partners across the globe. Mission Technologies is leading the next evolution of national defense – the data evolution - by accelerating a breadth of national security solutions for government and commercial customers. Our capabilities range from C5ISR, AI and Big Data, cyber operations and synthetic training environments to fleet sustainment, environmental remediation and the largest family of unmanned underwater vehicles in every class. Find the role that’s right for you. Apply today. We look forward to meeting you.
Job Description
We're at the forefront of developing next-generation directed energy solutions that are transforming modern defense capabilities. Our work on the U.S. Army's Enduring High Energy Laser (E-HEL) weapon systems program represents a significant investment in the cutting-edge technology designed to counter emerging threasts. We are seeking a highly accomplished and strategic Program Manager to spearhead advanced Directed Energy (DE) programs. This is a top-level position for a results-oriented individual with a proven track record of successfully managing complex, high-technology programs from concept to deployment. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of directed energy systems, extensive experience in product development, and the ability to lead multi-disciplinary teams in a dynamic environment. The Program Manager will be responsible for the overall execution and performance of directed energy programs, ensuring the achievement of technical, schedule, and cost objectives. This pivotal role is involved in all phases of the program lifecycle, from proposal development and contract negotiation to system integration, testing, and delivery. The successful candidate will serve as the primary interface with government customers and stakeholders, fostering strong relationships and ensuring program success.
Essential Job Responsibilities
• Program Leadership and Execution: Lead and direct cross-functional teams, including R&D, engineering, manufacturing, and quality assurance, to ensure seamless program execution.
• Cost, Schedule, and Performance Management: Oversee and manage program cost, schedule, and technical performance, implementing Earned Value Management (EVM) systems as required, communicating internally to ensure leadership alignment.
• Customer Stakeholder Engagement: Serve as the primary point of contact for customers, leading program reviews and effectively communicating program status and technical progress.
• Contract Management: Manage contract negotiations, modifications, and ensure adherence to the scope of work.
• Risk and Opportunity Management: Proactively identify and mitigate program risks while identifying and pursuing opportunities for program growth.
• Supplier Management: Oversee key suppliers and subcontractors to ensure they meet program objectives.
• Strategic Planning: Contribute to the strategic direction of the directed energy portfolio, supporting business development and capture efforts for new opportunities.
• Team Development: Mentor and develop program team members, fostering a culture of innovation and excellence.
Minimum Qualifications
• Bachelor’s degree in engineering.
• A minimum of 12 years of progressive experience in program management, with a significant portion in the aerospace and defense industry.
• Demonstrated experience managing complex technical product development programs, preferably in directed energy, lasers, or related fields.
• Proven ability to manage large-scale programs, including those with significant budgets.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with a wide range of individuals and lead cross-functional teams.
• Experience working with Department of Defense (DoD) customers.
• Understanding of EVMS, risk management, scheduling, and budget management.
• Clearance: Must be able to obtain a SECRET security clearance.
Preferred Requirements
• Master's degree in a technical field and/or Business Administration.
• PMP (Project Management Professional) certification.
• A strong background in system integration and testing of advanced technologies.
• Strong understanding of government contracting, FAR/DFARS, and ITAR regulations.
• Experience with high-energy laser weapon systems.
• Completed DAU courses and / or credentials.
• Experience managing programs with EVMS.
• Experience as program management of DoD RDT&E / R&D programs.
• Understanding of all subsystems associated with high energy laser systems.
• Strong relationships with directed energy customers and industry players.
• Conversant in the history of directed energy systems.
• Experience with directed energy systems from R&D to field support.
• Clearance: Active SECRET security clearance.
Physical Requirements
HII is more than a job - it’s an opportunity to build a new future. We offer competitive benefits such as best-in-class medical, dental and vision plan choices; wellness resources; employee assistance programs; Savings Plan Options (401(k)); financial planning tools, life insurance; employee discounts; paid holidays and paid time off; tuition reimbursement; as well as early childhood and post-secondary education scholarships. Bonus/other non-recurrent compensation is occasionally offered for qualified positions, and if applicable to this role will be addressed by the recruiter at the screening phase of application.
Why HII
We build the world’s most powerful, survivable naval ships and defense technology solutions that safeguard our seas, sky, land, space and cyber. Our workforce includes skilled tradespeople; artificial intelligence, machine learning (AI/ML) experts; engineers; technologists; scientists; logistics experts; and business administration professionals.
Recognized as one of America’s top large company employers, we are a values and ethics driven organization that puts people’s safety and well-being first. Regardless of your role or where you serve, at HII, you’ll find a supportive and welcoming environment, competitive benefits, and valuable educational and training programs for continual career growth at every stage of your career.
Together we are working to ensure a future where everyone can be free and thrive.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, physical or mental disability, age, or veteran status or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local law.
Do You Need Assistance?
If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please send an e-mail to buildyourcareer@hii-co.com and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Reasonable accommodations are considered on a case-by-case basis. Please note that only those inquiries concerning a request for reasonable accommodation will be responded to from this email address. Additionally, you may also call 1-844-849-8463 for assistance. Press #3 for HII Mission Technologies.