Principal Program Manager

Job Description: Saab is seeking a Principal Program Manager (PM) to be responsible for the profitable execution of programs within the Surveillance division. This position will work onsite from our East Syracuse, NY office. The successful candidate will have demonstrated experience in the design, development, fielding, and lifecycle management of large-scale, complex ground-based and/or airborne/air-traffic with an in-depth knowledge of military and/or commercial radar systems, markets, and technologies through several years of working in this domain. Experience supporting civil aviation, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) programs, international air service organizations, and associated civil infrastructure or construction activities is highly desirable. The role may encompass programs spanning defense, civil aviation, and commercial surveillance applications, including radar systems, FAA capabilities, international air service organizations, and associated ground infrastructure and civil works. Responsibilities will include, but are not limited to: Provide overall leadership and accountability for assigned program portfolios, including cost, schedule, technical performance, customer satisfaction, and profitable growth. Establish and govern program strategy, budgets, execution plans, and performance metrics, ensuring alignment with business objectives and customer requirements, including effective use of EVM/EVMS for internal and external reporting. Lead complex, multidisciplinary programs spanning the design, development, manufacturing, integration, installation, deployment, modernization, and sustainment of ground-based and airborne/air-traffic radar and Air Traffic Management systems. Drive business growth and capture strategy across defense, civil aviation, commercial radar, and Air Traffic Management markets by identifying new opportunities, developing competitive proposals, and leveraging customer, market, and competitive intelligence. Build and maintain strategic customer and industry relationships with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), international air service organizations, military and civil aviation customers, and major industry primes to strengthen existing programs and identify new opportunities. Provide executive-level oversight of program execution, ensuring adherence to established processes and successful management of requirements, risk, integration, operational readiness, site acceptance, field deployment, regulatory considerations, and customer commitments. Lead cross-functional collaboration across engineering, operations, contracts, finance, quality, supply chain, construction/civil works, sales, product management, and other organizations to optimize resources and achieve portfolio objectives. Oversee infrastructure and civil works activities supporting radar and Air Traffic Management deployments, including site development, construction, facilities, utilities, installation, and subcontractor execution. Develop and lead high-performing program management teams, including mentoring and developing program leaders, making talent recommendations, and fostering accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Ensure program execution reflects the unique requirements of defense and civil aviation environments, with emphasis on performance, reliability, quality, cost, schedule, regulatory compliance, and successful customer outcomes. Represent the organization with senior customers and stakeholders, supporting business and program activities across multiple time zones and traveling internationally as required. Compensation Range: $165,700 - $223,800 The compensation range provided is a general guideline. When extending an offer, Saab, Inc. considers factors including (but not limited to) the role and associated responsibilities, location, and market and business considerations, as well as the candidate's work experience, key skills, and education/training. Skills and Experience: Basic Qualifications: Bachelors degree in an Engineering, Business or related discipline is required. Master's degree/MBA is preferred. 12+ years of experience in surveillance systems, including radar, civil aviation, and FAA capability production programs/project management. Experience transitioning the production of products from one location to another. Experience in Risk and Opportunity management. Experience with surveillance defense programs is required, experience with Direct commercial and Foreign Military Sales is a plus. Experience with various federal contracting processes to include EVMS, ECP/RFV, FAR, OTAs, SAPs, CRADAs, WPP, etc. Excellent oral and written communication skills. Excellent organization and time management skills, attention to detail while tracking multiple interdependent functions, and ability to follow-up action items and requests. Must be self-motivated, enthusiastic, possess a strong work ethic and constant desire to learn. Must hold or be able to obtain U.S. Secret security clearance, TS/SCI is a plus. Strong business acumen and effectiveness working well with all levels of people in the organization. Domestic and international travel required up to 10-15% annually. Citizenship Requirements: Must be a U.S. citizen. Applicants selected may be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information. Drug-Free Workplaces: Saab is a federal government contractor and adheres to policies and programs necessary for sustaining drug-free workplaces. As a condition of employment, candidates will be required to pass a pre-employment drug screen. Benefits: Saab provides an excellent working environment offering professional growth opportunities, competitive wages, work-life balance, a business casual atmosphere and comprehensive benefits. Highlights include: Medical, vision, and dental insurance for employees and dependents