Program Manager

Stratolaunch is a technology accelerator that engineers operationally realistic testing at Mach 5+. Our air-launched, Talon testbeds are reusable, cost-effective platforms that enable routine access to the hypersonic environment. We deliver flight data critical to validating system performance and achieving rapid technology deployment. Together with our customers, we drive innovations that are imperative to advancing national security.

To achieve these efforts, Stratolaunch is seeking a Program Manager – Launch Platforms with 10+ years of experience leading complex aerospace flight‑test, aircraft integration, or mission‑operations programs. This senior role is responsible for overseeing the full portfolio of launch platform activities, including certified and experimental aircraft integration, modification, maintenance, and mission‑readiness operations in support of high‑tempo hypersonic test campaigns.

The ideal candidate has deep flight‑test or aircraft operations experience, strong technical acumen, and demonstrated leadership within highly matrixed environments. The Principal PM will shape launch platform strategy, integrate technical readiness with operational demands, mitigate flight‑test risk, and deliver increased cadence, reliability, and affordability across Stratolaunch’s flight missions.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Leadership & Launch Platform Strategy

• Serve as the senior program lead responsible for aircraft-level launch platform operations, readiness, and cross-functional integration
• Develop and maintain an integrated launch‑platform roadmap that aligns aircraft technical maturity, flight‑test readiness, mission cadence targets, and customer contractual obligations
• Represent launch‑platform status, risks, and decisions to executive leadership, customers, and major stakeholders

Flight-Test Transition & Operational Execution

• Lead the integration of certified and experimental heavy aircraft for rapid‑pace hypersonic flight‑test operations
• Oversee planning for aircraft modification, maintenance, and mission readiness, integrating actions, risks, dependencies, and technical maturity milestones into a unified program plan
• Develop and manage cross‑functional aircraft resource plans, flight‑test support staffing, and scheduling required to meet mission cadence objectives
• Coordinate Engineering, Operations, Flight Test, and Maintenance teams to ensure consistent, predictable aircraft readiness for all test objectives
• Resolve operational blockers, aircraft availability constraints, technical issues, or flight‑test risks impacting cost, schedule, or mission success

Cost, Schedule & Contract Performance