Technical Program Manager, Platform Discovery

ABOUT THE TEAM

The Platform Discovery team at Anduril is at the forefront of incubating and maturing high-potential, software-defined, AI-native offerings that meet the toughest, newest challenges across hardware, software, space, and cyber domains. We're the architects of mission autonomy and mesh networking, delivering scalable hardware solutions that meet some of the most urgent national security needs. By working hand-in-hand with elite teams in Perception, AI, Motion Planning, Hardware, Test Engineering, Space, Networking, and Vehicle hardware, we craft cutting-edge, end-to-end systems that redefine mission success.

ABOUT THE JOB

As a Technical Program Manager (TPM) at Anduril, you will lead the delivery of complex software and hardware products, ensuring alignment with client needs and company growth strategies. This role requires a unique blend of technical expertise, program management experience, and an understanding of the defense sector. You will collaborate closely with engineering, product, business, and government stakeholders to deliver innovative solutions that meet the needs of our customers and partners.

Above all, a Technical Program Manager must embody a "Whatever It Takes" mindset—executing tasks expediently, scalably, and pragmatically while keeping the mission at the forefront. You will make sound engineering decisions to deliver successful outcomes on time and with high quality. Beyond overseeing the development of our systems, you will also work directly with customers to deploy them.

WHAT YOU’LL DO

• Program Management:
• Lead the planning, execution, and delivery of technical programs, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives and customer needs.
• Manage program roadmaps, timelines, and resources for successful delivery.
• Balance priorities across multiple products and programs in a dynamic environment.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration:
• Act as the main liaison between engineering teams, product management, and external stakeholders, including defense contractors and government entities.
• Align cross-functional teams on goals, dependencies, and deliverables.
• Foster effective communication and collaboration across distributed teams and locations.
• Technical Expertise:
• Understand the architecture, dependencies, and technical challenges of defense-related systems (hardware, software, and integration).
• Support engineering teams and work with engineering leaders in resolving technical issues and making necessary trade-offs.
• Ensure compliance with industry standards and government regulations (e.g., ITAR and RMF).
• Risk Management:
• Identify and mitigate risks, including technical, schedule, and compliance-related risks.
• Monitor dependencies, anticipate bottlenecks, and adjust plans to maintain momentum.
• Stakeholder Management:
• Manage relationships with key customers, partners, and government agencies, ensuring alignment with contractual obligations and stakeholder expectations.
• Prepare and deliver program updates, technical briefs, and performance reports for internal and external audiences.
• Process Improvement:
• Implement and refine processes to enhance program execution and efficiency.
• Adapt best practices in program management to the unique challenges of the defense sector.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Currently possesses and is able to maintain an active U.S. Top Secret security clearance
• Minimum 5 years managing complex technical software programs.
• Strong technical background with familiarity in systems engineering, software development, and hardware/software integration.
• Proficiency with Agile methodologies and supporting tools.
• Exceptional organizational and communication skills.
• Willingness to travel as needed.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience in startups or small organizations with multiple fast-moving, interdependent programs.
• Familiarity with a defense acquisition processes, compliance, and reporting requirements.
• Experience with developing and operating distributed systems, CI/CD pipelines, APIs, middleware, and modular system architectures.
• Proven ability to lead through influence and collaboration.
• Demonstrated success in a fast-paced, innovative environment.
• Knowledge of military systems and operational tactics