Deputy Program Manager

Who We Are

At Firestorm, we are building the future of expeditionary defense manufacturing and autonomous systems. Modern conflict has exposed a fundamental problem: the systems needed most by operators are often too expensive, too slow to produce, and too difficult to sustain at scale. Firestorm exists to change that.

We develop mission-adaptable aerial systems and deployable manufacturing infrastructure designed to put capability directly into the hands of the warfighter. From modular unmanned aircraft to xCell - our deployable microfactory - our goal is to make defense systems rapidly deployable, adaptable, and producible at the point of need.

We are looking for builders, operators, and problem-solvers who want to work on meaningful technology with real-world impact.

About the Role

Firestorm Labs builds expeditionary additive manufacturing systems and a family of small unmanned aircraft that are printed, assembled, and flown at the point of need. We are seeking a Deputy Program Manager to help lead execution of a multi-year Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) STRATFI effort spanning aircraft production, operator training, payload integration, and field exercise support.

The Deputy Program Manager is the Program Manager’s principal execution partner. You will own the day-to-day mechanics that keep a federal contract on cost, on schedule, and in compliance: the integrated master schedule, the CDRL delivery calendar, subcontractor and supplier coordination, risk and action tracking, and the recurring reporting rhythm with the government customer. You will act with the PM’s authority in their absence and are expected to grow into a Program Manager role.

What You'll Do:

Program Execution & Schedule

Assist in maintaining the Integrated Master Schedule (IMS) across the full period of performance, including WBS structure, task dependencies, critical path, and baseline change control. Translate Performance Work Statement (PWS) tasks and CLIN scope into executable work packages with named owners, entry/exit criteria, and measurable completion. Assist in running the program’s operating cadence - weekly execution stand-ups, monthly program reviews, and milestone gate reviews - including agendas, decisions, and action item closure. Track earned value or equivalent progress measures; identify schedule variance early and drive recovery plans with engineering and production leads. Contract & CDRL Compliance Own the CDRL matrix end to end: maintain the delivery calendar, coordinate author assignments, run internal review cycles, and submit deliverables on or ahead of the contractual due date. Verify that every deliverable conforms to its Data Item Description (DID), distribution statement, and marking requirements before release. Maintain the program’s contract file modifications, correspondence, technical direction, and the traceability between PWS tasks, CLINs, and delivered artifacts. Support contract actions with Contracts and Finance: modifications, option exercises, funding actions, and requests for equitable adjustment. Cost & Financial Management Monitor program financials against the approved baseline labor by category, materials, subcontracts, and ODCs and support monthly accrual and estimate-at-completion updates. Track funding status and burn rate; flag funding exhaustion and limitation-of-funds thresholds to the PM and Contracts with sufficient lead time. Assist in preparing basis of estimate and pricing inputs for follow-on scope, option years, and new proposals. Customer & Stakeholder Engagement Prepare program status reporting monthly status reports, quarterly reviews, and technical interchange meetings in customer-ready form. Technical & Production Coordination Interface with engineering, manufacturing, and flight operations teams to keep hardware builds, kit deliveries, and ground control system deliveries aligned to contractual dates. Coordinate operator and maintainer training course scheduling, materials. Support payload integration and test campaigns planning, resourcing, assist in range and airspace coordination, and post-test reporting. Risk, Subcontracts & Quality Maintain the risk and opportunity register; drive mitigation plans to closure and escalate program-threatening risks with recommended courses of action. Manage subcontractor and vendor performance against statements of work, delivery dates, and quality requirements. Support configuration management, quality, cybersecurity, and export-control processes as they apply to program deliverables.

Required Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in business, engineering, or a related field; equivalent experience considered in lieu of degree. 2+ years of program, project, or operations management experience, including at least 2 years supporting U.S. Government contracts as a prime or subcontractor. Demonstrated ownership of schedule, deliverables, and cost tracking on a federal contract, not solely a support or coordinator role. Working knowledge of the federal contracting environment: FAR/DFARS fundamentals, CLIN and PWS structure, CDRL and DID requirements, and government reporting expectations. Proficiency with scheduling and tracking tools (Microsoft Project, JIRA, Smartsheet, or equivalent) and advanced Excel. Clear, concise written communication able to produce a status report or technical deliverable that goes to the customer without heavy rework. U.S. Person as defined under ITAR (22 CFR 120.62); must be eligible to obtain and maintain a DoD SECRET security clearance. Willing to travel up to 25% to test ranges, customer sites, and field exercises, including occasional austere or outdoor environments.

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience on SBIR/STTR, STRATFI/TACFI, or other AFRL, AFWERX, or DIU-funded programs. Background in unmanned aircraft systems, aerospace manufacturing, or additive manufacturing. Familiarity with earned value management principles and integrated baseline reviews. PMP, CAPM, or DAWIA program management certification. Active DoD SECRET clearance at time of hire. Prior military service, particularly in aviation, acquisition, or logistics roles. Experience supporting airworthiness, ATO/cybersecurity accreditation, or flight test processes.

Work Environment Based at our Firestorm site in Rome, NY. Travel up to 25% domestically to engage with customers, vendors, and support program milestones. We welcome candidates who are local or open to relocating. Relocation assistance is available and may be included in the offer package where appropriate. Combination of office, and field environments. Manufacturing and flight line areas require appropriate personal protective equipment. Occasional lifting up to 50 lbs (aircraft cases, ground support equipment) with assistance available. Field exercises and flight tests may involve extended hours, outdoor conditions, and travel to remote sites.

Compensation

US Salary Range: $117,000 - $140,000 USD

The posted salary range reflects an estimate based on a variety of compensation factors, including but not limited to relevant experience, education, certifications, specialized skills, geographic location, and business needs. Actual compensation may vary, and this range is subject to change as our compensation structure or market conditions evolve.

Benefits & Perks

Our culture fosters collaboration, respect, and trust, empowering passionate people to do their best work. We offer a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for career growth. In addition to an opportunity to take part in an innovative, collaborative and fast-growing business with a highly motivated and skilled team, we also take pride in taking care of our employees. Here are just a few ways that we show our appreciation:

We offer comprehensive medical, dental, and visions plans 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan to invest in your long-term retirement goals Unlimited PTO Extremely generous company holiday calendar, including a holiday hiatus in December Generous Parental Leave FSA HSA Hospital Indemnity insurance Critical Illness insurance Accident insurance Basic Life/AD&D, short-term and long-term disability insurance, 100% covered by Firestorm. Plus, the option to purchase additional life insurance for you and your family. Mental Health Resources: We provide free mental health resources 24/7 including therapy and more. Additional work-life services, such as free legal and financial support, are available to you as well.

Export Control Compliance

To conform to U.S. government export control regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and Export Administration Regulations (EAR), you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or otherwise eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State or U.S. Department of Commerce.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Firestorm is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, and upholding equitable hiring practices. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic under federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the CA Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. We actively encourage members of recognized minorities, women, Veterans, and those with disabilities to apply, and we work to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all applicants throughout the interview process.

Firestorm is committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible work environment. If you require accommodations or assistance during the application process, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at careers@launchfirestorm.com so we can provide the support you need.