Program Manager

Location: Cincinnati, OH (local preferred; relocation available)

Openings: 2

Employment Type: Contract to Hire

Compensation: $55/hr – $77/hr

Shift: Standard business hours

Work Environment: On‑site (with some travel up to 20%)

A leading defense and advanced manufacturing organization is seeking two experienced Senior Program Managers to oversee complex, technical programs within a highly engineered production environment. These leaders will drive full lifecycle program management — from contract award through successful delivery — while partnering with cross‑functional engineering, manufacturing, supply chain, and quality teams.

This role is ideal for a seasoned program leader with strong financial acumen (EACs/ETCs), deep experience in design/build or complex manufacturing, and the ability to influence teams in a matrixed environment.

• Own full program lifecycle execution including schedule, cost, technical performance, and profitability
• Lead the integrated program team and manage senior‑level customer relationships
• Develop and manage Integrated Master Schedule (IMS), budgets, and critical path
• Identify and mitigate program risks; drive opportunities to improve performance
• Manage cross‑functional collaboration across engineering, manufacturing, supply chain & quality
• Oversee subcontractor and supplier performance to ensure quality, schedule, and technical compliance
• Conduct financial analysis including EAC reporting and variance analysis
• Present program health to executive leadership
• Mentor junior PMs and support continuous process improvement initiatives
• Travel up to 20% as needed

• 8+ years of program management experience in manufacturing, design/build, defense, or aerospace environments
• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related technical field (strongly preferred)
• Experience with EACs, ETCs, and program financial management
• Proven leadership in cross‑functional, complex technical programs
• Strong supplier/subcontractor management background
• Proficient in MS Office, Office 365, MS Project
• Strong communication, problem‑solving, and root‑cause analysis skills
• Ability to thrive amid shifting priorities and manage multiple programs simultaneously
• Ability to occasionally lift up to 10 lbs and work in an office + production environment

• PMP certification
• Experience with government contracting (FAR/DFAR)
• Machine shop or fabrication environment experience