Deputy Program Manager

Deputy Program Manager

At AeroVironment, we are advancing the future of national defense through cutting-edge autonomous systems, directed energy solutions, precision tracking technologies, and integrated counter-UAS capabilities. The LOCUST product line represents a next-generation family of directed energy systems designed to support layered air defense missions across multiple domains and platforms.

AeroVironment is seeking a highly motivated and technically capable Deputy Program Manager (DPM) to support a portfolio of Directed Energy (DE), precision tracking, and Counter-UAS programs within the LOCUST product line. The DPM will work directly with Program Managers, engineering teams, operations, and customers to execute complex defense programs spanning development, integration, testing, deployment, training, and sustainment activities. This role requires a hands-on operator capable of supporting fast-paced program execution while coordinating cross-functional teams, managing documentation and reporting requirements, and ensuring successful customer demonstrations, test events, and field activities. The ideal candidate is organized, adaptable, customer-focused, and comfortable operating in dynamic operational and technical environments.

Key Responsibilities Program Execution & Coordination Support day-to-day execution of multiple Directed Energy and tracking system programs across development, integration, test, and fielding activities. Assist Program Managers with schedule management, action item tracking, risk management, cost monitoring, and program reporting. Coordinate cross-functional activities between engineering, production, logistics, contracts, supply chain, quality, and field operations teams. Support development and maintenance of Integrated Master Schedules (IMS), program plans, and customer deliverables. Assist with preparation of executive-level status briefings, milestone reviews, technical interchange meetings (TIMs), and customer updates.

Test, Training & Field Operations Support Support planning and execution of customer demonstrations, training exercises, government acceptance testing, and operational field events. Coordinate logistics, staffing, documentation, and readiness activities for test and deployment operations. Interface directly with Army, Navy, Air Force, and other government stakeholders during fielding, integration, and operational activities. Assist with range coordination, safety documentation, travel planning, asset tracking, and event execution support. Support operational readiness activities for deployed or forward-operating systems.

Documentation & Configuration Support Support generation, review, and tracking of program documentation including: Contract deliverables (CDRLs) Technical reports Test plans and procedures Training materials Meeting minutes and action registers Configuration management documentation Coordinate documentation status across multiple teams to ensure timely and accurate delivery to customers. Assist with data collection, metrics reporting, and program performance tracking.

Customer & Team Engagement Maintain strong working relationships with government customers, teammates, subcontractors, and internal stakeholders. Support customer visits, technical reviews, demonstrations, and operational engagements. Contribute to a high-tempo, collaborative environment focused on rapid capability delivery and mission success. Assist with proposal and capture activities for future Directed Energy and tracking opportunities as required.

Basic Qualifications Bachelor's degree preferred in Engineering, Business, Program Management, or related technical field; equivalent experience may be considered in lieu of degree. 5+ years of experience supporting defense, aerospace, military systems, or advanced technology programs. Experience supporting program execution, test events, training activities, or operational deployments. Familiarity with program management processes, schedules, documentation control, and customer reporting. Ability to travel in support of test events, customer demonstrations, and operational activities. Strong organizational, communication, and coordination skills. Ability to work effectively across technical and operational teams in fast-paced environments.

U.S. citizenship required with ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance.

Preferred Qualifications Experience supporting Directed Energy, Counter-UAS, tracking systems, EO/IR systems, or defense electronics programs. Experience working directly with Army, Navy, and/or Air Force customers. Familiarity with field testing environments including military ranges and operational exercises. Understanding of DoD acquisition, FAR-based contracts, OTA environments, or defense program lifecycle management. Experience with Microsoft Project, Jira, Confluence, Excel, or other program management tools. Active Secret or TS/SCI clearance preferred.

Other Qualifications & Desired Competencies Self-starter with strong attention to detail and mission focus. Comfortable operating in dynamic, high-visibility environments. Strong communication and leadership presence with both technical teams and customers. Ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously while maintaining execution discipline. Passion for advanced defense technologies and operational mission success.

Physical Demands

• Ability to work in an office and manufacturing environment
• Required to sit and stand for long periods; talk, hear, and use hands and fingers to operate a computer and telephone keyboard (Frequent)
• Travel up to 25-40% based on program and customer requirements.

Clearance Level Top Secret

The salary range for this role is: $80,500 - $123,000

AeroVironment considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the location, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, education/training, and key skills.

ITAR Requirement: This position requires access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations ("ITAR") and/or the Export Administration Regulations ("EAR"). In order to comply with the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicants must qualify as a U.S. person under the ITAR and the EAR, or a person to be approved for an export license by the governing agency whose technology comes under its jurisdiction. Please understand that any job offer that requires approval of an export license will be conditional on AeroVironment's determination that it will be able to obtain an export license in a time frame consistent with AeroVironment's business requirements. A "U.S. person" according to the ITAR definition is a U.S. citizen, U.S. lawful permanent resident (green card holder), or protected individual such as a refugee or asylee. See 22 CFR 120.15. Some positions will require current U.S. Citizenship due to contract requirements.

Benefits: AV offers an excellent benefits package including medical, dental vision, 401K with company matching, a 9/80 work schedule and a paid holiday shutdown.