Senior Program Manager

Our mission is to provide real-time on-orbit connectivity for critical missions, enabling a new era of data-driven intelligence and innovation. With 33 satellites launched to date, Kepler operates the first commercial optical data relay constellation, enabling real-time, continuous space communications while supporting advanced on-orbit compute and hosted payload capabilities. 

As a Senior Program Manager at Kepler, you will spearhead the development and execution of mission-critical satellite systems from concept through on-orbit validation. You will drive strategic program initiatives that strengthen global partnerships and fuel our continued growth in the space sector. In this crucial role, you will lead a cross-functional team in orchestrating on-orbit demonstrations aboard Kepler satellites, advancing our ÆTHER spacecraft platform through technical iterations, and interfacing with our hosted payload customers. You may also play a key role in the development and commissioning of our Tranche-2 satellite constellation.

You will serve as a key leader, working in close collaboration with our Engineering and Operations teams to ensure on-time, on-budget execution of programs from initial kickoff through operational handover. In addition to program execution, you may play a pivotal role in proposal efforts - contributing to opportunities involving the development or enhancement of satellite systems, software, satellite commissioning, or on-orbit operations.

This role is ideally suited for candidates who bring good technical depth across a range of aerospace engineering disciplines paired with strong program management acumen. The successful candidate will have a proven ability to lead high-performing teams while building effective relationships with external stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities:

• Own and manage all aspects of program scope, schedule, cost, and risk throughout the full program lifecycle
• Serve as the primary interface with hosted payload customers, subcontractors and internal stakeholders to ensure alignment and execution
• Plan and facilitate key programmatic and technical reviews, including design, qualification, and production milestones
• Develop and maintain comprehensive program plans, key performance metrics, and regular status reports
• Drive accountability across teams by making informed decisions on scope changes and performance specifications, while providing clear, data-driven recommendations to business leadership
• Lead cross-functional coordination across engineering, operations and business development to ensure program alignment and execution
• Monitor and report on program health using key performance indicators such as Schedule Performance Index (SPI), Cost Performance Index (CPI), and Estimate at Completion (EAC)
• Collaborate closely with the Program Director, peer Program Managers, Chief Engineer, and Systems Engineering team to maintain cohesive strategy and consistent messaging
• Proactively identify execution barriers and critical risks, develop mitigation plans with relevant teams, and escalate issues when necessary
• Maintain strong communication with department leads to surface top risks, key milestones, and ensure accountability for functional deliverables
• Present program status and performance insights to internal and external stakeholders using the most effective forums and communication channels

Required Skills & Qualifications:

• 7+ years of experience in the aerospace or other high-reliability industries, with at least 4 years in a program management role
• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in engineering or a related technical discipline
• Knowledge of and experience with satellite development life cycle - proven experience in overseeing system development, from design to qualification and integration
• Strong understanding and practical use of integrated master schedules (IMS) and earned value management (EVM) techniques to track, control, and report on program execution
• Demonstrated ability to identify, assess, and mitigate technical, schedule, and cost risks to ensure successful program delivery
• Familiarity with Agile development practices and experience integrating Agile methodologies into hardware-focused program execution
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to clearly convey complex technical and programmatic information
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment
• Proven success in managing cross-functional teams, program budgets, and schedules to drive programs to successful completion
• Strong interpersonal and leadership skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders and build consensus across technical and non-technical teams
• Demonstrates a willingness to adopt and effectively utilize AI-assisted engineering tools, applying sound judgment to improve productivity, quality, and innovation while continuously adapting to evolving technologies

Bonus Points:

• Previous experience in technical leadership position such as Integrated Product Team (IPT) lead, project engineer, systems lead or technical lead
• Knowledge and / or experience in optical communications
• Experience with electronics development, flight software development and GNC/AOCS subsystem development
• PMP certification