New

Program Manager II - Trash Compaction & Processing System

Sierra Space
life insurance, paid time off, 401(k)
United States, Wisconsin, Madison
Apr 22, 2026
Sierra Space Careers: At Sierra Space, we build the missions and systems that keep our world secure in the domain above Earth. Sierra Space team members share a spirit of innovation and collaboration and a belief that we can deliver on the boldest missions in space today. Together with our customers, we aim to safeguard our nation, sustain human presence in space, and secure the freedom of operations in low Earth orbit and beyond. Our success is measured by the trust of those who rely on what we build and deliver, and our technologies keep the United States and its allies mission-ready throughout space. We are mission-driven, and together, we are an extraordinary team. About the RoleThe Program Manager II is responsible for leading a program and has overall responsibility and authority for that program/contract's cost, schedule, and technical performance. This role involves comprehensive program planning, execution, and resource management to ensure successful program outcomes. They will have a proven record of successful program management execution, in-depth knowledge across all facets of program management, and proficiency in financial and performance metrics analysis. The Program Manager II will collaborate with cross functional teams to achieve program objectives and develop and initiate Learning & Development programs. This position offers the opportunity to work on complex projects, stay updated with the latest industry trends, and contribute to the continuous improvement of program management processes. This role is for the Program Manager for the Trash Compaction and Processing System (TCPS). TCPS is a development program to design, build, qualify, and fly the TCPS technology demonstration on ISS. NASA is the customer. TCPS will compact ISS trash to significantly reduce volume while recovering water from the trash to allow recycling, along with sterilization and stabilization, which is critically important to conserving resources. The tech demo will establish TCPS as the state-of-the-art trash management system. The successful candidate should have familiarity with complex fluid and multi-phase handling systems, with demonstrated success at leading new technology development programs, and familiarity with NASA ISS processes and requirements. As a development program, customer intimacy and establishing a collaborative working relationship with the NASA customer is a critical role of the Program Manager. About You Our mission is driven by an unyielding commitment to advancing space-based technology in service of our customers and safeguarding national security. We seek individuals who are passionate about innovating beyond boundaries and relentlessly pursuing solutions that protect, preserve and empower - to join us in this critical mission. We're looking for team members who align with our values, mission and goals - while also meeting the minimum qualifications below. The preferred qualifications are a bonus, not a requirement. Key Responsibilities: Lead a program and have overall responsibility and authority for that program/contract's cost, schedule, and technical performance. Accountable to a program, IPT, or portfolio of programs valued at less than $100M. Accountable for budget, schedule, and execution within contractual requirements. Develop and maintain comprehensive program plans, schedules, and budgets. Monitor program performance and implement corrective actions as needed to meet program objectives. Utilize specific program management training in EVMS, CAM, BOE, FAR, and CAS to ensure program success. Apply advanced project management methodologies and tools to ensure program success. Analyze financial and performance metrics to drive program decisions and improvements. Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including engineering, finance, supply chain, and operations, to ensure program success. Communicate program status, risks, and issues to stakeholders and team members. Prepare and deliver effective reports and presentations to internal and external stakeholders. Ensure compliance with all contractual and regulatory requirements. Foster strong relationships with external customers and stakeholders. Develop and initiate Learning & Development programs to enhance team capabilities. Apply improved problem-solving skills to address program challenges and obstacles. Lead a single program, an Integrated Product Team (IPT), or a portfolio of programs. Development Program Managers should have a strong technical background or engineering degree. Sustaining Program Managers need to have technical acumen but may not have an engineering degree. External customer-facing, end-to-end responsibility. Lead management reviews and interface with financial teams. Mentor junior managers and lead complex program strategies. Minimum Qualifications: Typically requires a Bachelor's degree in a related field (or a Master's degree with 6+ years of experience). 8+ years of related experience. Certifications: Senior-level project management certifications preferred (e.g., PfMP). Comprehensive knowledge of program management disciplines across various domains. Ability to manage a program with limited oversight. Capability to manage program budgets and meet specified schedules and technical objectives. Demonstrated experience with significant program management responsibility. In-depth knowledge across all facets of program planning, execution, and resource management. Profound skills in leading management reviews and interfacing with financial teams. Expert understanding of organizational KPI measurement and reporting. Advanced analytical skills for interpreting complex data. Ability to manage smaller programs or portions of larger programs. Ability to mentor junior managers and lead complex program strategies. Preferred Qualifications: Experience with ISS operations, processes, and requirements Experience developing payloads for ISS Knowledge of complex, multi-phase fluid handling systems Experience leading new technology development programs Experience with entire product lifecycle management, including production, certification, commissioning, and operations Familiarity with Agile project management methodologies. Strong analytical and organizational skills. Excellent communication and teamwork skills. Willingness to learn and adapt to new technologies and methodologies. Proficiency in using project management software tools such as Microsoft Project, JIRA, or Asana. Experience with risk management and mitigation strategies. Knowledge of Lean Six Sigma principles and practices. Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and prioritize tasks effectively. Understanding of software development lifecycle (SDLC) and systems engineering processes. Experience with contract management and negotiation. Familiarity with data analysis tools such as Excel, Tableau, or Power BI. Strong technical writing skills for creating detailed project documentation and reports. Understanding of supply chain management and logistics as they pertain to program execution. Ability to conduct root cause analysis and implement corrective actions. Compensation: Pay Range: $143,398.00 - $197,171.50 Your actual base compensation will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on job-related knowledge and skills, education,experience, internal equity and market competitiveness. Elevate Your Career At Sierra Space, we are committed to your personal and professional development. We empower you to make profound and meaningful contributions and foster a vibrant culture of collaboration, where teamwork ignites breakthrough innovations. We also offer a generous benefit package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, 401(k) with 150% match up to 6%, life insurance, 3 weeks paid time off, and more. Sierra Space is an industry-leading space and defense technology company providing satellites, spacecraft, and enabling mission systems and components. We deliver mission-proven technologies to our customers that safeguard our nation, protect space-based assets and enable space exploration. Application Deadline: This role will remain posted until a qualified pool of candidates is identified. Please note: Sierra Space does not accept unsolicited resumes from contract agencies or search firms. Any unsolicited resumes submitted to our website or to Sierra Space team members not through our approved vendor list or Talent Acquisition will be considered property of Sierra Space, and we will not be obligated to pay any referral fees. Sierra Space Corporationis an equal opportunity employer and is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. If you need special assistance or a reasonable accommodation related to applying for employment withSierra Spaceor at any stage of the recruitment process, pleasecontact us.