Director, Defense

Position Overview

Umbra is an American space technology company delivering advanced systems—from sensors to spacecraft—that empower customers worldwide with unmatched access to critical information from space. Our mission is to redefine space for people, systems, and missions in every domain. Operating through three business units, including Mission Solutions – The Platforms, our teams engineer secure, resilient systems tailored to the needs of U.S. and allied defense and intelligence missions.

The Defense Director will grow and lead a portfolio focused on integrating world-class, space-based capabilities into the Nation’s remote sensing and space warfighting architecture. This role drives strategic campaign development, oversees program execution from shaping to closeout, and mentors a cross-functional team spanning business development, capture, and program management. Location: Reston or Arlington, VA office with SCIF access on a part-time basis.

Compensation: $230,000 - $270,000 DOE

Key Responsibilities

• Develop compelling strategies to position Umbra in support of U.S. space-based defense priorities and communicate the voice of the customer to product architects.
• Assume full accountability for the successful execution (cost, schedule, technical) of multiple contracts, including monthly financial forecasting and revenue reporting.
• Oversee the complete program lifecycle from shaping through contract closeout, ensuring initiatives execute as planned.
• Contribute to the development of Umbra’s Program Excellence Framework and Capture Center of Excellence by tailoring lightweight, effective processes.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• Active TS//SCI security clearance.
• 10-15+ years of professional experience in program management supporting USG contracts or within the aerospace and defense domain.
• Extensive experience working with Department of Defense customers.
• Proven leadership skills with the ability to build and mentor high-performing teams and execute independently.
• Direct experience in space industry program planning and execution.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Willingness and ability to travel CONUS up to 25% of the time.

Preferred Qualifications

• Proven ability to provide profit and loss management, including forecasting, resource, and cost management to meet financial objectives.
• Experience managing technical development and/or R&D scope along with technical teams.
• Ability to thrive in a dynamic and fast-paced development environment.
• A continuous learner who is comfortable leading through uncertainty and learning from mistakes.
• Consistently takes initiative and champions critical issues.
• Demonstrated emotional intelligence in interacting and empathizing with staff, cross-functional teams, and customers.
• Experience with remote sensing satellite development and mission operations, including SAR and RF space payloads with associated ground systems.
• Familiarity with Agile product development and technology lifecycle processes, including experience with SAFe, PMI, or similar frameworks.
• Experience working with business development teams on large USG captures and leading proposals.
• Understanding of systems engineering processes and system architectures.
• Experience working with a diverse array of U.S. Government DoD, IC, and Civil customers.

Benefits & Perks

• Flexible Time Off, Sick, Family & Medical Leave
• Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, LTD, STD (employer funded)
• Voluntary Life, Critical Illness, Accidental, Hospital Indemnity, and Pet Insurance (employee funded)
• 401k with 3% non-elective company contribution
• Stock Options
• Free parking
• Free lunch in office daily