Program Manager in Alameda, California at Longshot Space

Longshot Space Technologies is at the cutting edge of low-cost space access and hypersonics. We are developing a novel space launch system that accelerates mass over a long distance. Using our technology, we plan to provide affordable launch services for satellites, cargo, and future space infrastructure. Our mission is to enable a future where humans can reach for the stars.

Position Overview

We are looking for a Technical Program Manager to own the master schedule and drive execution across Longshot's hardware development programs. You will be the person who keeps every team, timeline, and dependency visible and on track as we move from development through testing and into production. This is not a process-for-process-sake role. You will be embedded with a small, fast-moving engineering team where the schedule is the single most important tool for keeping hardware, regulatory, and procurement workstreams aligned. You will own the critical path, chase action items to closure, flag risks before they become problems, and make sure leadership always knows where the program actually stands. If you thrive on bringing order to complex hardware programs and can credibly push back on an engineer's task estimate, this role is for you.

Job Details

• Role Type: FTE EXEMPT

• Compensation: $120,000 - $150,000 Annual

• Location: Alameda, CA (Onsite)

Key Responsibilities

• The master schedule. Own and maintain the program's master schedule (i.e. critical path, cross-project dependencies, milestones, and schedule margin). Keep it current and truthful, and make sure the team and leadership always know where the program actually stands.

• Identify action items and risk. Run the action-item and risk trackers. Chase open commitments to closure, and flag early when an item lands on the critical path or blocks downstream work.

• Regulatory milestone tracking. Keep our long-lead regulatory approvals visible and moving. Maintain the milestone timelines and coordinate with regulatory counsel as they are engaged. Nobody owns this today; you will.

• Procurement and long-lead tracking. Track purchase orders, vendor lead times, and long-lead hardware (barrels, pressure vessels, ground support equipment). Expedite where needed to protect the critical path.

• Program visibility. Keep program status current and legible. Support program reviews and sustain coordination that keeps a small team aligned.

Required Qualifications

• 2+ years of program or project management experience in aerospace, defense, or a comparable hardware environment.

• Hands-on proficiency with work management software (Smartsheet, MS Project, Jira, or similar).

• Ability to read an engineering schedule, understand dependencies across hardware disciplines, and credibly discuss and push back on a task estimate with engineers. A technical degree is preferred but not required.

• Ability to work in an ITAR-controlled work environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• A degree in Engineering, or another technical field.

• PMP or CAPM certification.

• Experience with hardware development programs.

• Experience with launch vehicles, spacecraft, or propulsion systems.

• Exposure to aerospace regulatory or export-control processes (e.g. FAA licensing, ITAR/EAR, environmental permitting, etc.).

• Experience working in a startup or another fast-paced, resource-constrained environment.

• Able to obtain a security clearance

Benefits

• Comprehensive health and dental insurance

• 401(k) with company match

• Paid time off and paid sick leave

• Equity opportunities

• Professional development opportunities

• 90-day integration period

Equal Employment Opportunity

Longshot Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.

ITAR Compliance

To comply with U.S. Government export regulations, applicants must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful permanent resident (green card holder), (iii) refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about ITAR here.

At-Will Employment

Employment with Longshot is at-will. This means that either the employee or the company may terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without cause or notice.