Job Information
Space Dynamics Laboratory Program Manager in Colorado Springs, Colorado
Job ID: 7335
Date Posted: April 4, 2026
Space Dynamics Laboratory (SDL) Strategic & Military Space Division is seeking applicants for a Program Manager with a background in national security space systems and related technical operations. The successful candidate will be responsible for assisting U.S. Space Force System Delta 81/USSF PAE-Infrastructure to develop national level capabilities to test the USA’s next generation of space capabilities, and develop tactics, techniques, and procedures for the Service’s weapons systems.
he selected candidate will work as an embedded part of a larger government team with 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:
Decomposes operational, warfare, and training needs into acquisition requirements
Coordinates service level requirements with other parts of the OTTI enterprise, such as Infrastructure, Orbital, Engineering, or Business Operations
Assembles and directs resources toward execution of the organization’s mission
Identifies, tracks, and mitigates risks
Trades issues of scope, approach, cost, and schedule
Evaluates proposals and makes recommendations to the S5/9 and other Government leads
Creates and maintains project schedules
Other duties as assigned by the Government lead
Required Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in technical engineering, science, or business degree
10+ years of project management or technical leadership experience
Ability to understand the Government’s needs and issues, as an embedded SME
Demonstrated experience generating and decomposing system requirements
Demonstrated excellence in prior supervisory positions
Attention to detail and proficiency in task management
Ability to organize and manage a team
Experience developing program schedules and controlling budgets to meet required deadlines
Experience leading technical projects in the National Security space domain
Must be a team player who helps develop others
Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to tailor the message to the audience
Excellent computer skills
Experience creating and maintaining a project schedule using tools such as Microsoft Project
Must be a U.S. citizen and possess a current a U.S. Government Top Secret/SCI security clearance and be eligible for Special Accesses
Must be able to travel
Preferred Qualifications:
Advanced degree in aerospace, systems, electrical or optical engineering, or MBA
Space Force, NRO, or IC requirements generation experience
Successful program management experience in DoW, DoE, or the IC
Leadership experience in the military or intelligence community - highlight combat experience
Experience in Exercises and Wargames from tactical through Tier-1 level
Management or systems engineering experience of space or optics hardware development projects
*Salary Range
$148,000 - $248,000
Salary commensurate 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 (https://www.sdl.usu.edu/careers/benefits/) 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 14 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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