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Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company developing autonomous systems, unmanned aircraft, and simulation technologies for military and defense applications. The company operates globally with facilities across the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific.
As Program Manager for Foreign Military Sales (FMS), you will lead end-to-end execution of international defense programs from contract award through delivery, training, sustainment, and follow-on support. You will serve as the primary point of contact for U.S. Government and international customers, managing complex relationships and ensuring flawless program delivery.
Key responsibilities include:
- Directing Foreign Military Sales programs to deliver on schedule, under budget, and with exceptional technical performance
- Leading and motivating cross-functional teams including engineering, operations, logistics, and sustainment
- Managing relationships with U.S. Government program offices, contracting organizations, and international partners
- Overseeing budget, resource, schedule, and project management metrics with accurate tracking and reporting
- Conducting critical path analyses and identifying risks, bottlenecks, and mitigation strategies
- Coordinating delivery, training, fielding, and acceptance activities for international programs
- Facilitating well-organized internal and customer meetings with consistent cadence
- Balancing competing priorities across cost, schedule, technical performance, and contractual requirements
- Supporting an environment of accountability, customer trust, and execution excellence
REQUIREMENTS:
- 5+ years of program management experience on Department of Defense programs
- Ability to manage advanced, multi-project programs with significant self-direction
- Proven focus on long-term business objectives
- Proficiency with scheduling tools (Microsoft Project, Smartsheet, or equivalent)
- Strong leadership, time management, organization, and team management skills
- Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication abilities
- Expert-level understanding of complex project financials
- Demonstrated alignment with Shield AI values: accountability, trust, collaboration, servant leadership
- Ability to obtain a Secret Security Clearance
- Willingness and ability to travel domestically and internationally as needed
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- Experience managing Foreign Military Sales programs or supporting international military customers
- Familiarity with FMS program management processes
- Background in unmanned aerial systems, aviation operations, or defense technology programs
- Experience with aviation product delivery, maintenance, sustainment, and field support
- Working relationships with NAVAIR, including PMA-263 or other UAS program offices
- Experience coordinating with U.S. Government acquisition, contracting, security cooperation, and logistics organizations
- Experience supporting international delivery, training, acceptance, or sustainment activities
- Active Secret Security Clearance
- PMP certification or equivalent program management training
- Undergraduate degree in engineering, business, or related field
