Program Manager, National Security Space (Albuquerque, NM)

Program Manager (PM)

Do you have a passion for space and a drive to make an impact in national defense? Are you an experienced Program or Project Manager excited about space systems, cutting-edge technologies, and mission-driven innovation? If so, we'd love for you to join our team at APL. We're seeking a Program Manager (PM) to lead programs and sponsor engagement within the National Security Space (NSS) mission area. This role is ideal for candidates with deep experience across the NSS landscape, particularly in areas such as offensive & defensive space operations, space domain awareness (SDA), electronic warfare (EW), multi-domain kill chains, rapid prototyping, advanced capabilities, decision superiority, and threat engineering. Ideal candidates will have held positions within organizations like the Space Rapid Capabilities Office (SpRCO), Air Force Research Lab (AFRL), Defense Advanced Research Project Agency (DARPA), Space Systems Command (SSC), National Reconnaissance Office (NRO), US Space Force Space Training and Readiness Command (USSF / STARCOM), US Space Command, or similar defense and intelligence agencies. This position is located in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

As a Program Manager, you will :

• Lead Program Execution
• Manage and grow a high-performing team executing innovative programs. Efforts include :
• Concept development for operational prototypes of new system capabilities
• Requirements definition and architectural analysis
• Operational concept development
• Test & Evaluation of combat power capabilities
• Risk assessments and mitigation strategies
• Oversight of verification and validation processes
• You will lead sponsor reviews and provide execution oversight of APL teams across technical performance, cost, schedule, risk, and security.

Drive Thought Leadership Across a Wide Sponsor Base in Albuquerque, NM, and Colorado Springs, CO

Foster Team Leadership and Development

Promote Technical Innovation

Advance the NSS Mission Area's impact across its five strategic vectors :

Your leadership will directly contribute to APL's ability to deliver combat-ready solutions, influence sponsor direction, and shape the future of national security space operations.

Qualifications

You meet our minimum qualifications if you have :

You'll stand out if you also have :

Join us in shaping the future of space defense. At APL, you'll work at the forefront of mission-critical innovation with teams that thrive on tackling the toughest challenges in space and defense. If you're ready to make a lasting impact, we're ready to meet you.