Launch Campaign Technical Program Manager

Position Overview

The Launch Campaign Technical Program Manager (TPM) shall provide strategic, operational, and programmatic support to the AST Launch Director in the planning, coordination, execution, and continuous improvement of satellite launch campaigns and associated launch logistics, infrastructure, and operational readiness initiatives. The TPM will serve as a trusted advisor and extension of the Launch Director's organization, helping coordinate cross-functional activities, identify risks, drive closure of action items, and support successful mission execution.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the Launch Director in developing and maintaining integrated launch campaign plans, schedules, milestones, and readiness metrics.
• Assist in coordinating campaign activities across engineering, manufacturing, AI&T, mission operations, supply chain, logistics, launch service providers, and other stakeholders.
• Monitor campaign readiness status and identify schedule, resource, technical, operational, or logistical risks requiring management attention.
• Support preparation for launch readiness reviews, operational readiness reviews, campaign milestones, and executive briefings.
• Assist the Launch Director in coordinating spacecraft transportation, ground support equipment deployment, personnel movement, and launch-site operational activities.
• Support logistics planning and coordination with launch service providers, transportation vendors, customs agencies, and launch-site personnel.
• Support development and maintenance of launch campaign logistics plans and operational procedures.
• Support planning and execution of launch-related infrastructure projects, facility enhancements, and operational capability improvements.
• Assist in evaluating launch-site facilities, support equipment, consumables, communications systems, and operational resources necessary to support campaign objectives.
• Coordinate with internal and external stakeholders to ensure launch activities align with campaign schedules and mission requirements.
• Maintain readiness dashboards, action-item trackers, risk registers, and status reporting tools.
• Support budget, resource, and supplier coordination activities related to launch campaigns and associated projects.
• Support establishment of best practices, campaign standards, and operational procedures to improve efficiency and mission success.

Qualifications

Education:

Bachelor’s degree in engineering or a STEM-related field

Experience:

A minimum of 5 years of program management or mission management experience in the satellite launch industry.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with LEO satellite constellations
• Familiarity with mission planning and launch operations
• Knowledge of launch vehicles and payload accommodations
• Experience testing complex systems
• Experience working with heavy loads under cranes
• Prior work in a 24/7 operations environment
• Exposure to automation and AI enabled tools

Soft Skills

• Strong interpersonal skills
• Proven ability to collaborate effectively within cross-functional teams
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Meticulous attention to detail to ensure the accuracy of all documentation and project deliverables
• Self-starter with initiative and ownership mindset
• Adaptability to rapidly evolving system requirements

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work in a standard office environment and use a computer for extended periods
• Ability to lift up to 25lbs
• Ability to work rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays
• Ability to travel to launch providers as necessary for launch campaign durations
• Must be able to remain alert and responsive during prolonged periods of monitoring and operations