Project Manager

Project Manager

LOCATION: On Site - Kirtland AFB, NM

JOB STATUS: Full-time

CLEARANCE: Active TS/SCI

CERTIFICATION: PMP Preferred

TRAVEL: <10%

Astrion is seeking a Project Manager to support the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), Space Vehicles Directorate, at Kirtland AFB in Albuquerque, NM. This role is a key contributor to the Rapid Architecture Prototyping and Integration Development (RAPID) laboratory - a mission-critical effort accelerating the Space Force's transition to resilient future architectures through advanced system-of-systems design and ground demonstrations. The Project Manager will support execution and oversight of cross-functional engineering and technical teams, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives and successful delivery of program milestones.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS / SKILLS

• U.S. Citizenship required

• Active TS/SCI clearance required prior to start

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, physical sciences, business, or a related technical field

• 3+ years of experience supporting DoD or government programs, with 2+ years in a technical leadership or project/program management role

• Experience managing integrated schedules involving multiple interdependent systems

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite

• Skilled in developing and maintaining integrated project schedules (e.g., with MS Project, Excel)

• Strong verbal and written communication skills

• Ability to interface effectively with senior government leaders, engineers, and other stakeholders

• Demonstrated ability to manage complex, multi-disciplinary projects with evolving priorities

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS / SKILLS

• Project Management Professional (PMP) certification

• Familiarity with space systems, secure communications, or networked system architectures

• Understanding of system engineering principles and technical coordination in defense programs

• Experience supporting stakeholder engagement and cross-organizational collaboration

• Prior exposure to AFRL or Space Force technical initiatives is a plus

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assist the RAPID Program Manager with overall program strategy, planning, and execution

• Coordinate cross-functional technical teams, ensuring delivery of program objectives and alignment to schedule

• Represent the program in customer meetings, design reviews, and technical interchange meetings (TIMs)

• Track action items, monitor milestones, and maintain program documentation

• Support stakeholder engagement and build relationships across government and contractor teams

• Translate mission needs into executable technical plans alongside the Chief Engineer and Technical Director

• Monitor technical progress, risks, and interdependencies across hardware, software, and network development efforts

• Participate in requirements planning, architecture discussions, and trade studies as needed

• Ensure engineering efforts are aligned with program priorities

• Coordinate with subcontractors to ensure technical quality and contract compliance

• Assist in developing and maintaining schedules, budgets, and risk registers

• Track earned value, contract deliverables, and performance metrics
• Support creation of status reports, briefings, and formal contract data deliverables

#CJ