Program Manager – R&D - Fort Worth, TX

Program Manager – R&D (ATAC) · Description · Who we are · Textron Systems is part of Textron, a $14 billion, multi-industry company employing 35,000 talented makers, thinkers, creators and doers worldwide. We make things that fly, hover, zoom and launch. Things that move people. ...

Job description

Program Manager – R&D (ATAC)

Description

Who we are

Textron Systems is part of Textron, a $14 billion, multi-industry company employing 35,000 talented makers, thinkers, creators and doers worldwide. We make things that fly, hover, zoom and launch. Things that move people. Protect soldiers. Power industries. We serve customers in industries spanning aerospace and defense, specialized vehicles, turf care and fuel systems.

This role is in Textron System's Airborne Tactical Advantage Company business area. Visit & to read more about who we are and the products we make

About ATAC

Textron Systems - ATAC provides tactical flight training and adversary aggressor services for U.S. Navy, Marine and Air Force pilots. ATAC operates simultaneously across eight sites and two continents and comprises the world's largest outsourced civilian, tactical airborne training organization and proudly provides the highest quality live training to Squadrons, Air Wings, and Battle Groups.

Summary

The Program Manager, Research & Development (R&D) role reports to the ATAC Director of Programs and is the ATAC position directly responsible for managing all aspects of future depot planning and aircraft modifications on ATAC fleet of aircraft, to include aircraft Return to Service projects. Incumbent will manage R&D efforts from Material Solution Analysis; through Technology Maturation and Risk Reduction; including Engineering, Manufacturing & Development (EMD), Production & Deployment and System Disposition for ATAC in support of Contracted Air Services Business and be responsible for the financial, and schedule performance of assigned programs within cost limitations and established standards. May lead statements of work and specifications, estimation of service costs, negotiation and administration of contracts. Strong organizational and leadership qualities are essential.

Job Responsibilities

• Establishes Project Management Plans including customer milestones, accompanying Integrated Master Schedule (IMS) and manages adherence to the same.
• Leads the R&D Integrated Product Team (IPT) in executing capability development and mods planning and execution; leads planning and integration of new capabilities into existing aircraft fleet
• Ensures enterprise leadership and primary stakeholders are updated on significant program issues, maintains programmatic review of combined cost, schedule and performance
• Reviews proposals, cost structure, contracts
• Evaluates and manages risks related to their program's business line
• Interface with external customers and vendors associated with depot and modification programs to maximize efficiencies
• Interface with a larger functional organization across the business enterprise to ensure good communications and corporate governance are intact.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities Include the Following

• Manages and delivers financial results to achieve program and company goals.
• Coordinates with Textron Systems Contracts personnel on the management of R&D related contract actions
• Plans, schedules, develops, and executes capability enhancements & modifications to ATAC fleet of aircraft supporting Combat Air Force (CAF) Contracted Air Services (CAS) for Adversary Air (ADAIR) training and support and F-35 Chase operations
• Participates in the negotiation of contract and contract changes
• Establishes strategic objectives and measure progress throughout the program life cycle
• Establishes milestones and monitors adherence to master plans and integrated master schedules, identifies program problems and obtains solutions, such as allocation of resources or changing contractual specifications
• Program Execution and Control: Use a formal concept of operations to manage activities, monitor performance and implement changes to meet technical, quality, schedule, cost and other objectives
• Risk, Issue and Opportunity Management: Use an integrated methodology to capture opportunities, mitigate risks and correct issues
• Program Communication: Maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders
• Responsible for managing overall project KPI's and present to leadership team during program reviews
• Responsible for internal monthly Program Management Reviews (PMRs) and quarterly Textron Systems Quarterly Business Reviews related to R&D efforts
• Assist the ATAC Director of Programs in implementing and establishing the ATAC Portfolio Management Office (PMO) to include standardization of PM activities and reporting

Qualifications

• Project Management experience on US Department of Defense fighter programs
• Excellent communication skills both internally and externally
• Ability to effectively communicate complex subjects in a dynamic work environment at all levels within the organization
• Demonstrated organizational skills and ability to multitask
• Knowledge of FAR/DFAR regulations
• Knowledge of ITAR and EAR regulations
• Knowledge of US Government Contract Management
• Demonstrated performance in high-paced, unique fighter aviation programs
• Computer software skills with Microsoft Office suite of products to include MS Project
• Experience with Earned Value Management Systems (EVMS) and Control Account Management
• Adaptable to change and self-starter in a fast-paced and dynamic aviation environment

Required Education, Certifications and Experience

• Bachelor's Degree
• 5 years of fighter aircraft capability development planning and Program/Project Management
• 10 years of Program/Project Management experience in fighter aircraft aviation or aeronautics field
• Ability to obtain and maintain security clearance

Desired Education, Certifications and Experience

• Master's Degree in Business or Systems Engineering field desired
• Program Management Professional (PMP) Certification or Defense Acquisition Workforce Improvement Act Level III equivalent
• Fighter aircraft systems, engineering, and operations background, to include hardware and software technologies
• Business financial acumen and program finance management

Travel Requirements: Up to 15%

Position Location: Fort Worth, TX

How We Care

At Textron Systems, our talented people make us successful. We promote an inclusive environment where we value individuality, differences, and unique perspectives.

Our Company is committed to offering employees opportunities to grow and develop. Our benefits and compensation packages are designed to help our talented employees excel and achieve their goals, so they can make a difference every day in and outside of the workplace. Below are just a few examples

• Flexible Work Schedules

• Education Assistance

• Career Development & Training Opportunities

• Wellness Program (including Fitness Reimbursement)

• Medical, Dental, Vision & 401(K) with Company Funding

• Paid Parental Leave

Are you a Military Veteran?

Textron's products and services are trusted everyday by those who protect our country. We are dedicated to hiring these Veterans and aim to translate their skills to make an impact on our Company.

EEO Statement

Textron is committed to providing Equal Opportunity in Employment, to all applicants and employees regardless of race, color, religion, age, national origin, military status, veteran status, disability, sex (including pregnancy and sexual orientation), genetic information or any other characteristic protected by law.

Applicants selected will be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements, including US Citizenship, for access to classified information.

Recruiting Company: Airborne Tactical Advantage Company (ATAC)

Primary Location: US-Texas-Fort Worth

Job Function: Program Management

Schedule: Full-time

Job Level: Individual Contributor

Job Type: Experienced

Shift: First Shift

Travel: Yes, 15 % of the Time

Job Posting: 02/20/2026, 12:40:53 PM

Job Number: 339726