Sr Principal Program Manager

Attalon / Location Overview

Step into the future of optical innovation with Attalon’s Aerospace & Defense division in Murrieta, CA. We’re driving breakthroughs in custom optics fabrication and optical subsystems for cutting-edge aerospace and defense applications. If you’re passionate about leading complex programs that shape next-generation technologies, this is your opportunity to make an impact in a growing, world-class organization.

Job Title

Sr. Principal Program Manager

Job Details

Are you an optics industry expert ready to lead high-stakes programs that define the future of aerospace and defense? As a Sr. Principal Program Manager, you’ll take ownership of complex, high-value projects in custom optics and optical subsystems. Reporting directly to the Product Line Director, you’ll play a pivotal role in shaping program management processes and driving strategic growth. This is more than a leadership role - it’s a chance to influence culture, deliver cutting-edge solutions, and work on technologies that power tomorrow’s defense and commercial optical systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead cross-functional teams of engineers and operations professionals to deliver projects on time, on budget, and to exacting quality standards.
• Develop and execute project plans, schedules, budgets, and deliverables that meet customer and business objectives.
• Identify and mitigate technical, schedule, and financial risks to ensure program success.
• Serve as the primary customer interface, building strong relationships with aerospace, defense, and high-end commercial clients.
• Manage project scope and changes, ensuring alignment with contracts and sales teams.
• Present project status to internal and external stakeholders with clarity and confidence.
• Drive feasibility studies, vendor selection, and proposals for new technologies and processes.
• Resolve quality issues and ensure products meet stringent specifications.
• Support marketing efforts and contribute to product roadmap development for future growth.

Minimum Qualifications

• BS in Engineering or Applied Science with 12+ years of relevant experience
• 5+ years of program management experience, including project tracking and planning.
• Expertise in optical systems engineering and optical fabrication.
• Demonstrated experience managing customer relationships and delivering complex technical programs.
• Proficiency in MS Project and other project management tools.
• Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's Degree in Engineering or Applied Science with 10 years of experience
• Deep knowledge of custom optics and aerospace/defense programs.
• Experience in higher-level program and product management.
• Ability to influence culture and processes in a growing organization.
• Proven ability to work cross-functionally and drive ambitious results.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and decisiveness in resolving business challenges.

For California, the base salary pay range for this role is $108,020.00 - $194,436.00
 Please note this range is provided as a general guideline. When determining an offer, Attalon takes into account multiple factors, including (but not limited to) the responsibilities of the position, your professional experience, education and training, specialized skills, and current market and business conditions.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

Attalon, Inc. is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law. 

Export Control Compliance

This role involves access to technology, materials, software, or hardware subject to U.S. export control laws. Therefore, to be considered, candidates must be classified as a “U.S. Person” under applicable regulations or be eligible for authorization under a U.S. government export license.