Engineering program manager Jobs in Houston, TX

Engineering Manager

We are seeking an experienced Engineering Manager to build, stand up, and activate a multi-disciplinary engineering organization in support of a full-scale launch test, research, and development program. This critical leadership role is responsible for establishing the engineering team, operating cadence, and execution discipline, and for leading the team through all phases of test site developmentfrom initial design through fabrication, installation, and activation.

The ideal candidate brings deep technical expertise in test systems and rapid prototyping, controls, and data acquisition; combined with proven leadership capability in building teams, establishing operational rhythms, and delivering complex, high-stakes engineering programs.

Key Responsibilities: Team Leadership & Management

• Stand up and activate a multi-disciplinary engineering team, including defining roles, responsibilities, operating cadence, and execution norms
• Establish and lead regular office stand-ups and execution reviews to drive alignment, accountability, and rapid issue resolution
• Lead and mentor engineers across multiple disciplines throughout the complete lifecycle of a one-of-a-kind test site
• Coordinate cross-functional collaboration between engineering, operations, and program management teams
• Lead structured problem-solving efforts to rapidly address emergent technical and schedule issues
• Foster a collaborative and innovative environment that promotes technical excellence and continuous improvement
• Conduct performance reviews, provide career development guidance, and grow team capability over time

Technical Program Execution

• Direct design, fabrication, installation, and activation activities for full-scale launch test sites
• Lead rapid prototyping and development efforts to address emergent program needs
• Review and approve technical documentation, including requirements, design specifications, installation and validation procedures, and technical reports
• Apply appropriate technical rigor across all activities using sound engineering judgment and program guidance

Technical Leadership

• Provide expert guidance on testing methodologies, instrumentation, and data acquisition strategies
• Make critical technical decisions and trade-offs to optimize test site performance, safety, and capability
• Drive innovative solutions to complex engineering challenges in launch testing environments
• Serve as the primary technical interface with the Program Chief Engineer

Project & Schedule Management

• Develop and maintain detailed project schedules, identifying critical path activities and resource requirements
• Track milestones, manage dependencies, and proactively identify and mitigate technical and execution risks
• Use office stand-ups, reviews, and metrics to monitor progress and maintain execution discipline
• Coordinate with internal and external stakeholders to ensure alignment on priorities, deliverables, and schedule commitments
• Allocate resources effectively to balance multiple concurrent efforts and competing priorities

Required Qualifications: Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical discipline
• 10+ years of progressive engineering experience, with significant emphasis on testing, test infrastructure, or R&D environments
• Minimum of 35 years in an engineering leadership or management role

Technical Expertise

• Experience in standing up or activating a new technical activity
• Demonstrated experience in test planning, execution, and data analysis
• Proven track record in rapid prototyping and iterative development
• Strong background in multi-disciplinary engineering involving mechanical, electrical, controls, and/or instrumentation systems
• Experience with design for manufacturability and installation planning

Leadership & Management Skills

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey complex technical information clearly
• Proven ability to manage schedules, resources, and priorities in dynamic, fast-paced environments
• Strong technical documentation review skills and attention to detail
• Experience leading teams through high-pressure situations and tight timelines
• Demonstrated ability to build consensus, resolve conflicts, and drive decisions

Security & Clearance

• Must be able to obtain and maintain a secret US Government Clearance. Note: US Citizenship is required to obtain a Secret Clearance.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master's degree in Engineering or a related technical field
• Experience with launch systems, propulsion testing, or aerospace test operations
• Familiarity with government acquisition processes and defense contractor environments
• Experience with project management methodologies (Agile, Waterfall, or hybrid)
• Knowledge of systems engineering principles and practices
• Previous experience managing capital projects

Work Environment

• This position is based at a research and development facility and requires regular presence at active test sites. The role includes a balance of office-based leadership and field execution activities.
• Travel of approximately 30% is required.

Compensation Details:

$170k - $225k

The compensation range or hourly rate listed for this position is provided as a good-faith estimate of what the company intends to offer for this role at the time this posting was issued. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as job responsibilities, education, experience, skills, internal equity, market data, applicable collective bargaining agreements, and relevant laws.

Benefits Overview:

Our health and welfare benefits are designed to support you and your priorities. Offerings include:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off and holidays
• Retirement benefits (including 401(k) matching)
• Educational reimbursement
• Parental leave
• Employee stock purchase plan
• Tax-saving options
• Disability and life insurance
• Pet insurance

Note: Benefits may vary based on employment type, location, and applicable agreements. Positions governed by a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the McNamara-O'Hara Service Contract Act (SCA), or other employment contracts may include different provisions/benefits.