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Project Manager, Kill Chain Integration

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory
life insurance, paid time off
United States, California, El Segundo
2310 East El Segundo Boulevard (Show on map)
Jul 02, 2025
Description

Are you an experienced leader who is passionate about developing and implementing new concepts and capabilities to support kill chain integration at scale?

Are you deadline driven and skilled at balancing performance, schedule, cost, and people for a dynamic portfolio?

Are you collaborative and driven to problem-solve complex technical issues?

Are you seeking to make an impact across the national security space enterprise by delivering groundbreaking technical expertise while striving to achieve a vision and strategy?

If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL)!

As the Project Manager for Kill Chain Integration within the National Security Space Mission Area in the Space Exploration Sector (SES), in support of the Program Manager, you will be responsible for and manage the kill chain integration portfolio based in El Segundo, California. You will ensure seamless execution of system-of-system integration, as well as supervising the project execution of extensive kill chain modeling, simulation, and analysis for kill chain closure.

The ideal candidate will establish a plan to capture these national security space efforts while working across the program teams to guide program execution to deliver critical contributions to the United States government. In addition to technical performance, you will manage cost, schedule, and people, while ensure contract compliance. Under the leadership of the Program Manager, you will develop and implement a robust project management plan and will help see opportunities for internal and external collaboration. External engagement will be required with DoD sponsors and industry organizations. Thought leadership and the ability to address critical challenges with impactful analytic approaches will be key in this role.

At APL, we are passionate about the work we do, and we strive to deliver high-quality and timely products to our government sponsors. We aim to develop a highly collaborative, fulfilling, and fun work environment.

As a Project Manager, you will...

  • Establish and lead a project execution plan for the kill chain integration portfolio
  • Develop and sustain trusted relationships with DoD sponsors and key stakeholders by clearly articulating the project vision, technical direction, and the role of digital engineering
  • Grow and cultivate a portfolio of critical efforts that include deep technical analytical processes, impactful research and development projects, digital systems engineering, and prototype development activities consistent with the National Security Space Mission Area's vision and strategy
  • Provide and conduct thought leadership activities to ensure a complete understanding of sponsors' critical needs and current and future challenges; shape analytic work; and make technical contributions where appropriate
  • Execute and manage project funding and task orders; and understand and manage proposal development in accordance with APL policies and government contracting regulations
  • Ensure that deliverables meet sponsor expectations, and project execution is within schedule and budget constraints
  • Directly interface and liaise with Government sponsor principal staff as well as APL management and staff
  • Have the ability to process information from multiple sources, while drafting and integrating briefings and presentations for the Program Manager
  • Synthesize inputs from modeling, simulation, and analysis sources to generate clear, impactful presentations, visual products, and reports for internal and external stakeholders
  • Can effectively prioritize workload with competing tasks in a fast-paced, dynamic work environment
  • Have demonstrated capability of strong written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills

Qualifications

You meet the qualifications for the job if you...

  • Have a Bachelor's degree in engineering or another technical field with at least five years of relevant experience in leading technical development activities
  • Have previous experience with kill chain integration capabilities and system-of-systems integration
  • Have experience drafting technical reports, white papers, or CDRL documentation that explains modeling methodology, results, and implications for design and integration to a non-technical audience
  • Have experience articulating the value proposition of digital engineering to external stakeholders
  • Have a strong understanding of project management best practices
  • Possess good analytical, creative thinking, and problem-solving skills
  • Are able to cultivate impactful relationships and work collaboratively within and across organizational boundaries
  • Have a demonstrated proficiency in the analysis and evaluation of project milestones, schedules, contractual deliverables, and finance management
  • Are a high-performer and self-starter, with strong communication skills (verbal and written)
  • Have a strong sense of urgency, adaptability, resourcefulness, and flexibility
  • Have the ability to work critical tasks simultaneously in a fast-paced work environment
  • Have excellent organizational skills
  • Hold an active Top Secret security clearance and ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret / SCI clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship

You will go above and beyond the minimum requirements if you...

  • Have a Master's degree or Ph.D. in engineering or another technical related field
  • Have experience overseeing or contributing to model-based systems engineering (MBSE) efforts using tools such as Cameo or Enterprise Architect
  • Have experience in the space industry, particularly national security space
  • Have demonstrated project management experience in the space industry
  • Have a strong understanding and knowledge of the United States Space Force and Department of Air Force organizational structures

About Us

Why Work at APL?

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.

At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities athttp://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contactAccommodations@jhuapl.edu.

The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.


Minimum Rate

$90,000 Annually

Maximum Rate

$350,000 Annually
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