Space Dynamics Laboratory

Program Manager

Strategic Military Space - Albuquerque, NM - Full Time

Job ID: 8687A
Date Posted: August 25, 2026
The Space Dynamics Laboratory (SDL) is seeking an experienced and detail-oriented advanced career Software Program Manager to lead the development and sustainment of complex software systems supporting satellite ground operations in the Strategic & Military Space Division. This role bridges technical leadership, stakeholder communication, and project execution, ensuring delivery of high-reliability software critical to national security and space missions.

The Program Manager will work as part of a larger team comprised of customers, Engineers, Managers, Technicians, and support personnel.

The Strategic & Military Space Division delivers advanced satellite and sensor systems that support the Department of Defense and the Intelligence Community. Our division is a key component of national security, providing technological solutions and expert mission support. Become part of a team dedicated to making a tangible contribution to our nation’s defense capabilities.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Leads cross-functional software development teams delivering ground system capabilities including telemetry, tracking, and command (TT&C), mission planning, automation, and data processing
  • Manages project lifecycle from concept through operations ensuring scope, schedule, budget, and quality targets are met
  • Interfaces with internal and external stakeholders including Software Engineers, System Architects, Satellite Operators, and government sponsors
  • Oversees risk management, change control, and related management processes
  • Coordinates software integration and testing activities
  • Facilitates agile/scrum or hybrid program management methodologies
  • Ensures compliance with applicable government and quality standards
  • Tracks and reports program status, technical progress, and resource allocation to senior leadership and customers
Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field
  • 15+ years of applicable experience with a bachelor’s degree, or 13+ years with a master’s degree
  • Minimum of 10 years of software program/project management experience, including at least 5 years managing critical and complex DoD programs
  • Must be a US citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government security clearance
  • Proven success managing complex software projects through full development lifecycle
  • Strong understanding of ground system architecture and satellite operations
  • Familiarity with Agile and/or hybrid project management frameworks
  • Proficiency with PM tools (e.g., Jira, Confluence, MS Project, etc.)
  • Technical domain knowledge of scalable architecture, distributed infrastructure in Azure, AWS, or Google Cloud
  • Excellent communication, presentation, and stakeholder management skills
  • Ability to support new proposal efforts with technical writing, proposal management support, subcontractor evaluation, and other duties as requested
  • Must be able and willing to travel (up to 25%)
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Bachelor’s degree in computer science, electrical engineering, computer engineering, or Information Systems; Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a technical Bachelor of Science degree
  • PMP or PMI certification
  • At least 2 years in satellite or space system domains
  • 15+ years of project management experience in aerospace including experience managing software for space operations centers, antenna tasking, and mission control systems
  • Familiarity with multiple Remote Sensing phenomenologies and data sets such as RF, SAR, EO, IR
  • Background in DevSecOps, continuous integration/continuous deployment (CI/CD), or digital engineering
  • Active security clearance
*Salary Range
  • $150,000 - $210,000
    • Salary commensurate based on education and relevant experience

This range serves as a general guideline and may vary based on factors such as role, level, location, market conditions, and individual qualifications, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. The range displayed in the job advertisement reflects the minimum and maximum target salaries across all US locations. Specific salary details for a candidate’s preferred location can be provided by the recruiter or HR manager during the hiring process.

Why Join SDL?
*SDL offers competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package. Visit our Benefits Page to learn more about what we offer.

SDL delivers advanced multi-domain solutions to protect national security and enable scientific discovery. Our expertise in satellites, sensors and instruments, ground systems and data processing, and autonomous systems plays a critical role in missions supporting NASA and the Department of Defense. Join our team of engineers, scientists, technicians, and business professionals in our seventh decade of delivering mission success.

At SDL, we strive to uphold a culture of respect, collaboration, empowerment, and accountability. We listen with open minds, seek to understand diverse perspectives, and engage in thoughtful dialogue. We work together by sharing knowledge, involving others, and offering support. We trust and empower our team members to take ownership, act with integrity, and be accountable. Above all, we deliver on our commitments to each other and to our mission partners.

The application window for this position is expected to remain open for approximately 7 days; however, it may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates. We encourage interested candidates to submit their applications promptly

For questions, assistance, or accommodation with the application process or the DoD SkillBridge program, please contact employment@sdl.usu.edu.

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