Program Manager

Due to the nature of this project, eligibility for an Australian Government security clearance or compliance with export control requirements may be required.

Are you a strategic thinker and seasoned leader ready to drive large-scale space robotics programs from concept through execution? Lunar Outpost Oceania is seeking an accomplished Program Manager to guide our most critical and complex programs in lunar mobility and in-situ resource utilisation. As a key member of our leadership team, you will oversee multiple projects, lead cross-functional teams, and align technical execution with broader company goals to push the boundaries of what’s possible in space technology.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide strategic oversight and leadership for high-impact space robotics programs, ensuring alignment with organisational goals, mission objectives, and stakeholder expectations.
• Manage multiple projects and project managers, ensuring cohesive program execution across technical, budgetary, and schedule domains.
• Develop and drive long-term program roadmaps, including risk mitigation strategies, resource allocation, and milestone definition for internal and external deliverables.
• Act as the primary point of accountability for program performance, interfacing directly with executive leadership, customers, partners, and key stakeholders.
• Champion cross disciplinary coordination among engineering, procurement, operations, and external vendorsto ensure seamless execution and innovation across the program lifecycle.
• Establish and maintain governance practices including program reviews, audit readiness, compliance documentation, and performance metrics.
• Build and nurture a high performing team, mentoring Project Managers and fostering professional growth and leadership development.
• Proactively manage competing priorities and facilitate resolution of technical and operational conflicts at the program level.
• Oversee budget forecasting, cost control, and resource optimisation across multiple projects and teams.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives in program delivery, incorporating lessons learned, team feedback, and industry best practices.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in systems, aerospace, mechanical, electrical engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum 7+ years of progressive experience in program and project management roles, including leading multi-disciplinary engineering teams.
• Demonstrated success delivering complex, large-scale engineering or robotics programs in the space, aerospace, defence, manufacturing, or high-tech industries.
• Proven ability to manage multiple concurrent projects while maintaining strategic oversight and execution integrity.
• Strong interpersonal and stakeholder management skills with the ability to influence executive and customer decision-making.
• Highly developed leadership, coaching, and team-building capabilities.
• Deep understanding of systems engineering, lifecycle management, and program-level budgeting and resource planning.
• Proficiency in project and program management tools (e.g., MS Project, Procore, Jira, Excel), including portfolio tracking and reporting dashboards.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in engineering, systems management, or business administration (MBA).
• PMP, PgMP, or similar industry-recognised certification.
• Experience leading programs in the space sector or lunar exploration field.
• Strong familiarity with space systems standards and regulatory requirements.
• Background in Agile and hybrid development methodologies.
• Experience scaling engineering programs in a startup or fast-paced R&D environment.

At Lunar Outpost Oceania, we believe bold innovation demands strong leadership. If you're passionate about transforming bold ideas into space-grade solutions and thrive in dynamic, high-impact environments, we want to hear from you.

Lunar Outpost Oceania is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and inclusion and are committed to creating a respectful workplace for all employees.