Director of Programs

Director of Programs

Safran is an international high-technology group, operating in the aviation (propulsion, equipment and interiors), defense and space markets. Its core purpose is to contribute to a safer, more sustainable world, where air transport is more environmentally friendly, comfortable and accessible. Safran has a global presence, with 100,000 employees and sales of 27.3 billion euros in 2024, and holds, alone or in partnership, world or regional leadership positions in its core markets.

Safran Electronics & Defense offers its customers onboard intelligence solutions allowing them to understand the environment, reduce mental load and guarantee a trajectory, even in critical situations, in all environments : on land, at sea, in the sky or space. The company harnesses the expertise of its 13,000 employees towards these three functions : observe, decide and guide, for the civil and military markets.

This position is located at IDD Aerospace based in Redmond, Washington. IDD Aerospace is part of the Avionics Division of Safran Electronics & Defense (SED). This position reports locally to the head of IDD Aerospace and globally to the Global Product Line Program Director based in SED, France.

Within Safran, Program Management is expected to drive P&L performance, work cross-functionally to execute and ensure program's performance, effectively communicate updates / status to external and internal customers, provide input into strategic business decisions, and work on continuous improvement projects for the business. In this role, you will work closely with local (Redmond) & regional (Chihuahua MX) colleagues, but also collaborate with Safran's global organization on key initiatives and holistic customer programs. As a Director of Programs, you'll lead IDD business aspects of Program Management, including but not limited to, new product development, production and sustainment, industrial transfers, and business integration with Safran's Global Cockpit Solutions Global Product Line.

Key Responsibilities :

• End-to-End Program Leadership
• Sustaining Programs Management
• Contract & Compliance Management

Technical and Operational Oversight

Financial and Risk Management

Customer & Stakeholder Engagement

Cross-Functional Leadership

Team Leadership & Continuous Improvement

Candidate skills & requirements :

Required Competencies :

Education / Experience :

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Systems, or Business - or equivalent experience (min. 6yrs)

Minimum 5+ years in aerospace program management, preferably as a Tier-1 / 2 systems or components supplier to airframers

Preferrable : Proven track record on OEM programs (i.e., Boeing, Airbus, etc.), including hands-on experience with project financial reporting, contract compliance, and customer negotiations for pricing or scope changes.

Skills and Abilities :

Technical & Business Acumen

Experience with electromechanical systems or aircraft systems

Proficiency in program tracking tools (IMS, MS Project, ERP systems)

Financial skills in budgeting, cost tracking, reliability, and margin improvement

Leadership & Communication

Strong leadership, mentoring, and team development skills

Effective in diverse environments : office, onsite, and remote-travel up to 25%

Able to manage and prioritize an active list of actions across multiple programs

Excellent verbal and written communicator with both technical and senior audiences

Certifications & Security :

PMP, Lean, or Six Sigma certifications are a strong plus

U.S. citizen with eligibility for obtaining U.S. government clearances, if needed (not currently required)

Physical Requirements :

Primary Environment : Office-based work, typically requiring sitting, movement around the building to coordinate with key stakeholders, and operating a keyboard or other office equipment.

Mobility Needs : Frequently reach with hands and arms, occasionally stand or walk-primarily for meetings or accessing shared workspaces

Light Material Handling : Occasionally lift, carry, push, or pull items (e.g., laptops, documents)-up to 10 lbs (4.5 kg).

Vision & Hearing : Close vision required for reading screens / documents; hearing clarity essential for in-person and virtual communication.

Noise Level : Generally quiet office setting with normal ambient noise.

Travel Requirements : Travel expected to be ad hoc, but must be available for travel (up to 25%), including visits to customer sites, key suppliers, and partner facilities.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other legally protected status.

Annual salary : $165K-$200K

Job location : North America, United States, Washington

City : 18225 NE 76th St WA - 98052 Redmond