Deputy Program Manager

Worker Type Regular Job Description Company Overview At AeroVironment, we are advancing the future of national defense through cutting-edge autonomous systems, directed energy solutions, precision tracking technologies, and integrated counter-UAS capabilities. The LOCUST product line represents a next-generation family of directed energy systems designed to support layered air defense missions across multiple domains and platforms. Summary AeroVironment is seeking a highly motivated and technically capable Deputy Program Manager (DPM) to support a portfolio of Directed Energy (DE), precision tracking, and Counter-UAS programs within the LOCUST product line. The DPM will work directly with Program Managers, engineering teams, operations, and customers to execute complex defense programs spanning development, integration, testing, deployment, training, and sustainment activities. This role requires a hands-on operator capable of supporting fast-paced program execution while coordinating cross-functional teams, managing documentation and reporting requirements, and ensuring successful customer demonstrations, test events, and field activities. The ideal candidate is organized, adaptable, customer-focused, and comfortable operating in dynamic operational and technical environments. Key Responsibilities Program Execution & Coordination     •    Support day-to-day execution of multiple Directed Energy and tracking system programs across development, integration, test, and fielding activities.      •    Assist Program Managers with schedule management, action item tracking, risk management, cost monitoring, and program reporting.      •    Coordinate cross-functional activities between engineering, production, logistics, contracts, supply chain, quality, and field operations teams.      •    Support development and maintenance of Integrated Master Schedules (IMS), program plans, and customer deliverables.      •    Assist with preparation of executive-level status briefings, milestone reviews, technical interchange meetings (TIMs), and customer updates.  Test, Training & Field Operations Support     •    Support planning and execution of customer demonstrations, training exercises, government acceptance testing, and operational field events.      •    Coordinate logistics, staffing, documentation, and readiness activities for test and deployment operations.      •    Interface directly with Army, Navy, Air Force, and other government stakeholders during fielding, integration, and operational activities.      •    Assist with range coordination, safety documentation, travel planning, asset tracking, and event execution support.      •    Support operational readiness activities for deployed or forward-operating systems.  Documentation & Configuration Support     •    Support generation, review, and tracking of program documentation including:      ◦    Contract deliverables (CDRLs)      ◦    Technical reports      ◦    Test plans and procedures      ◦    Training materials      ◦    Meeting minutes and action registers      ◦    Configuration management documentation      •    Coordinate documentation status across multiple teams to ensure timely and accurate delivery to customers.      •    Assist with data collection, metrics reporting, and program performance tracking.  Customer & Team Engagement     •    Maintain strong working relationships with government customers, teammates, subcontractors, and internal stakeholders.      •    Support customer visits, technical reviews, demonstrations, and operational engagements.      •    Contribute to a high-tempo, collaborative environment focused on rapid capability delivery and mission success.      •    Assist with proposal and capture activities for future Directed Energy and tracking opportunities as required.  Basic Qualifications     •    Bachelor’s degree preferred in Engineering, Business, Program Management, or related technical field; equivalent experience may be considered in lieu of degree.      •    5+ years of experience supporting defense, aerospace, military systems, or advanced technology programs.      •    Experience supporting program execution, test events, training activities, or operational deployments.      •    Familiarity with program management processes, schedules, documentation control, and customer reporting.      •    Ability to travel in support of test events, customer demonstrations, and operational activities.      •    Strong organizational, communication, and coordination skills.      •    Ability to work effectively across technical and operational teams in fast-paced environments.      •   U.S. citizenship required with ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance.  Preferred Qualifications     •    Experience supporting Directed Energy, Counter-UAS, tracking systems, EO/IR systems, or defense electronics programs.      •    Experience working directly with Army, Navy, and/or Air Force customers.      •    Familiarity with field testing environments including military ranges and operational exercises.      •    Understanding of DoD acquisition, FAR-based contracts, OTA environments, or defense program lifecycle management.      •    Experience with Microsoft Project, Jira, Confluence, Excel, or other program management tools.      •    Active Secret or TS/SCI clearance preferred.  Other Qualifications & Desired Competencies     •    Self-starter with strong attention to detail and mission focus.      •    Comfortable operating in dynamic, high-visibility environments.      •    Strong communication and leadership presence with both technical teams and customers.      •    Ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously while maintaining execution discipline.      •    Passion for advanced defense technologies and operational mission success. Physical Demands Ability to work in an office and manufacturing environment Required to sit and stand for long period