Sr. Program Manager - Aerospace & Defense

Watlow ControlsSaint Louis, MO

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Overview

Schedule

Full-time

Education

PMP

Career level

Director

Remote

On-site

Job Description

At Watlow's Global Headquarters in St. Louis, Missouri, we combine a rich legacy with forward-thinking innovation. Founded in 1922 in the heart of St. Louis, Watlow has grown from a small heating element manufacturer into a global leader in thermal systems. Our headquarters is more than just an office, it's a hub for collaboration, advanced engineering, and customer focused solutions.#PoweredByPossibilityWe are hiring a: Sr. Program Manager - Aerospace & Defense (A&D)St. Louis, MO (Onsite)Watlow is seeking a proactive, detail-oriented Sr. Program Manager to serve as the critical internal link between our Aerospace & Defense (A&D) commercial sales team and our manufacturing, engineering, quality, and operations functions. This factory-based role owns the full program lifecycle for A&D accounts, from business case development through contract execution, compliance management, and delivery, ensuring Watlow can successfully compete and deliver in a highly regulated, technically complex market. You will build credibility with both customer-facing commercial teams and the internal teams that deliver the work, directly influencing execution from within Watlow's operations.What you'll do:

Business case & commercial support: Partner with the A&D commercial sales team to develop business cases, multi-year program strategies, and go/no-go recommendations, providing feasibility and manufacturing readiness input on new opportunities with OEMs, Tier 1 suppliers, and defense contractors.Program ownership: Own end-to-end program management for all active A&D accounts, from initial order entry through production, delivery, and ongoing program support.Compliance management: Manage all aerospace and defense compliance requirements, including AS9100, NADCAP, ITAR, and DFARS, ensuring internal teams understand and can meet customer and regulatory obligations.Cross-functional coordination: Serve as the primary point of coordination across engineering, manufacturing, quality, supply chain, IT, and customer service, pulling together the right resources and removing barriers to program execution.Customer engagement & advocacy: Act as the voice of the customer inside Watlow's factory and functional teams, participating in customer visits, site audits, and technical reviews alongside the commercial lead to build long-term customer confidence.Market & industry leadership: Maintain awareness of aerospace and defense industry trends and regulatory requirements, and provide market intelligence and customer insights to leadership and product development teams.

What you'll need to succeed?

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, Manufacturing, or a related field5+ years of experience in aerospace and defense, industrial manufacturing, technical sales, program management, or account managementProven track record of developing customer relationships and growing business within complex technical environmentsStrong project and program management skills, with excellent communication, negotiation, and presentation abilitiesAbility to travel up to 30-50% as required

Preferred qualifications:

Experience supporting aerospace OEMs, defense contractors, or Tier 1 suppliersKnowledge of aerospace and defense quality systems and standards (AS9100, NADCAP, ITAR, DFARS, etc.)Experience with thermal systems, sensors, controls, industrial components, or engineered manufacturing solutionsPMP certification, MBA, or advanced technical degree

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FAQs About Sr. Program Manager - Aerospace & Defense Jobs at Watlow Controls

What is the work location for this position at Watlow Controls?

This job at Watlow Controls is located in Saint Louis, MO, according to the details provided by the employer. Some roles may also include multiple work locations depending on the requirement.

What pay range can candidates expect for this role at Watlow Controls?

Employer has not shared pay details for this role.

What employment applies to this position at Watlow Controls?

Watlow Controls lists this role as a Full-time position.

What experience level is required for this role at Watlow Controls?

Watlow Controls is looking for a candidate with "Director" experience level.

What education level is required for this job?

The education requirement for this position is PMP. Candidates with relevant qualifications or equivalent experience may also be considered.

What is the process to apply for this position at Watlow Controls?

You can apply for this role at Watlow Controls either through Sonara's automated application system, which helps you submit applications 10X faster with minimal effort, or by applying manually using the direct link on the job page.