Project Manager

Description WORK LOCATION: San Luis Obispo, CA SALARY RANGE: $84,400 - $117,800 FLSA STATUS: Exempt SUMMARY We are seeking a skilled and experienced Project Manager to join our Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) / Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) aerospace manufacturing company at Edge Autonomy. As a Project Manager handling Military and Department of Defense (DOD) clients, you will be responsible for overseeing the successful execution of projects related to the development, manufacturing, and delivery of UAS/UAV systems for these customers. Your expertise in project management, knowledge of DOD regulations, and ability to navigate complex client requirements will be crucial in ensuring project success and customer satisfaction. RESPONSIBILITIES The following job functions are a basic requirement but are not limited to and may be assigned other duties. Lead and manage the end-to-end project lifecycle, from project initiation to completion, ensuring adherence to scope, budget, and timeline. Serve as the primary point of contact for stakeholders, establishing and maintaining strong relationships, and managing client expectations. Collaborate with internal cross-functional teams, including engineering, manufacturing, quality assurance, and procurement, to ensure project requirements are met. Work with Program Managers and Product Owners to determine project milestones and create detailed project plans and schedules. Understand resource needs and assist with resource allocation during project execution. Conduct project risk assessments, develop mitigation strategies, and proactively manage project risks and issues. Monitor project progress, track key performance indicators (KPIs), and provide regular status updates to stakeholders, including clients and executive management. Manage project budgets, track project costs, and ensure financial objectives are met. Ensure compliance with DOD regulations, contractual requirements, and relevant industry standards throughout the project lifecycle. Coordinate with the customers and stakeholders to understand their specific needs, technical requirements, and project deliverables. Facilitate effective communication and collaboration between the company's internal teams and DOD clients, ensuring alignment and addressing any conflicts or issues. Identify and manage project dependencies and critical path activities, ensuring timely delivery of project milestones. Drive project quality assurance activities, including inspections, testing, and documentation, to ensure compliance with DOD standards and client specifications. Implement project management best practices, tools, and methodologies to optimize project execution and efficiency. Foster a culture of continuous improvement, identifying opportunities to enhance project management processes and streamline workflows. Lead project post-mortem reviews, capturing lessons learned and implementing improvements for future projects. Stay updated on industry trends, emerging technologies, and changes in DOD regulations that may impact project execution and client requirements. QUALIFICATIONS The following are a non-exhaustive list of qualifications for the position: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field. Project Management Professional (PMP) certification, Lean Six Signa Certification, and Theory of Constraints Training/Certifications are highly desirable. Proven experience as a Project Manager, preferably in the aerospace or defense industry, with a focus on DOD clients and UAS/UAV projects. In-depth knowledge of project management methodologies, tools, and best practices. Familiarity with DOD regulations, procurement processes, and technical specifications for UAS/UAV systems. Strong understanding of project management software and tools, such as Microsoft Project or similar applications. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively engage with stakeholders at all levels, including DOD clients, internal teams, and executive management. Strong leadership and team management abilities, with a focus on fostering collaboration, accountability, and motivation. Solid organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously. Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills, with the ability to navigate complex project challenges and stakeholder dynamics. Results-oriented mindset, with a focus on delivering projects on time, within budget, and to the satisfaction of clients. Familiarity with risk management principles and the ability to proactively identify and mitigate project risks. Understanding of engineering and manufacturing processes for UAS/UAV systems is desirable. U.S. citizenship and eligibility for security clearance may be required, depending on the specific DOD contracts and projects involved. Ability to continually learn and grow, enhancing your knowledge of your area and current trends both in the industry and as a leader. EDGE AUTONOMY BENEFITS Matching 401(k) Paid PTO Paid holidays Medical, vision, and dental insurance Group Short-Term & Long-Term Disability HSA and FSA Options Critical Care Plan Accident Care Plan HIRING REQUIREMENTS If an offer of employment offer is extended, the applicant must have the ability to pass a background check and the ability to be insured by the Company’s Auto-policy. An Offer of Employment is contingent upon the results. CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS This position may require access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations (“ITAR”) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (“EAR”). To comply with the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicants will be asked to provide specific documentation to verify a US person’s status. Edge Autonomy is an Equal Opportunity Employer All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Edge Autonomy is committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, contact jobs@edgeautonomy.io Continued employment remains on an “At-Will” basis.