Engineering Program Manager 2

Your Impact:

Dedrone stands out as the global leader in airspace defense technology and counter-UAS solutions. Engineering at Dedrone is tasked with delivering innovative solutions and products to maintain our position on the cutting edge of innovation.

Engineering Program Managers, Solutions at Dedrone own the delivery of next generation cUAS engineering solutions from requirements definition through deployment, driving programs that are highly visible to even the most senior executives. This role sits at the intersection of product, internal engineering, and external development partners: taking requirements from product management, aligning them with internal technical teams, and directing outside development partners (ODM/CM and technical solution providers) to design, develop, and deliver the resulting engineering solutions.

This role emphasizes vendor and program management, requirements translation, partner alignment, and cross-functional execution across the full solutions development lifecycle. The ideal candidate combines strong hardware program management fundamentals with hands-on experience managing external development partners, ensuring that vendor-delivered work meets technical requirements, schedule, and quality bars.

What You'll Do:

• Translate product requirements from Product Management into clear technical scopes, then align internal Systems, Electrical, and Mechanical Engineering teams and external development partners around a shared execution plan.
• Own the master schedule for solutions programs delivered in partnership with outside development partners (ODM/CM and technical solution providers), driving milestones across all program phases (EVT, DVT, PVT).
• Serve as the primary program interface to external development partners — managing scope, technical reviews, and deliverable acceptance to ensure vendor output meets Dedrone's requirements.
• Identify, track, and proactively mitigate program risks from partner capability gaps and long-lead component constraints to supplier qualification gaps before they become schedule or cost impacts.
• Own program budget management including NRE, tooling, and build costs, maintaining alignment between vendor commitments and business objectives.
• Collaborate regularly with both domestic and international stakeholders, including ODM/CM and other development partners, to ensure manufacturing readiness and on-time production ramp.
• Translate complex technical status, vendor tradeoffs, and program risk into clear, actionable communication for executive and cross-functional audiences.
• Work autonomously and collaboratively in an empowering and fast-paced environment, driving clarity in ambiguous situations.
• Hone your program and vendor management expertise in a dynamic learning environment focused on personal and professional development.

What You Bring:

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related technical field; MBA or MS in Engineering Management a plus.
• PMP certification a plus.
• Proven experience managing hardware or technical solutions programs delivered through external development partners, preferably in industries involving advanced electromechanical systems.
• Strong technical fluency across mechanical, electrical, and firmware disciplines sufficient to translate product requirements, evaluate vendor tradeoffs, and engage meaningfully with internal engineering teams.
• Demonstrated experience managing ODM/CM or outside development partner relationships, including scoping, technical reviews, deliverable acceptance, and coordinating manufacturing readiness activities such as yield, regulatory certification, and factory acceptance.
• Familiarity with hardware build phases (EVT/DVT/PVT), design freeze processes, and the tradeoffs inherent in transitioning from development to production.
• Proficiency with program management tools for scheduling, risk tracking, and cross-functional coordination.
• Knowledge of regulatory and compliance requirements (e.g., FCC, CE, UL, MIL-STD) and experience driving vendor-delivered products through certification processes.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities to identify critical path risks — including those originating with external partners — and drive resolution across competing organizational priorities.
• Excellent communication skills to effectively align product managers, internal engineering teams, and external development partners, surface tradeoffs to leadership, and present program status with clarity and confidence.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with high levels of ambiguity and evolving requirements.

Work Location

This role is based out of our Sterling, VA office and follows a hybrid schedule. We rely on in-person collaboration and ask that team members work onsite Tuesdays through Fridays, with the flexibility to work remotely on Mondays, unless there is an approved workplace accommodation. We believe that connection fuels innovation, and our in-office culture is designed to foster meaningful teamwork, mentorship, and shared success.

Benefits that Benefit You

• Competitive salary and 401k with employer match
• Discretionary paid time off
• Paid parental leave for all
• Medical, Dental, Vision plans
• Fitness Programs
• Emotional & Mental Wellness support
• Learning & Development programs
• And yes, we have snacks in our offices

Benefits listed herein may vary depending on the nature of your employment and the location where you work