Launch Manager

YOUR MISSION

We are seeking an experienced Launch Manager to lead and coordinate the planning, integration, and execution of aerospace vehicle launches for defense and commercial space missions. The Launch Manager will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of the launch lifecycle, ensuring safe, efficient, and successful execution of space launch missions. This role requires strong technical knowledge of launch systems, leadership in multi-disciplinary teams, and the ability to interface with government and commercial stakeholders. 

RESPONSIBILITIES

Mission Planning & Coordination: 

• Lead the planning and management of launch operations from mission concept through final execution.
• Define launch objectives and timelines in collaboration with program management, engineering, and mission partners.
• Develop detailed launch schedules, identifying critical milestones and key dependencies to ensure mission readiness.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for launch operations, coordinating with internal teams, government agencies, and commercial partners.
• Lead technical and programmatic reviews, including Launch Readiness Reviews (LRRs), Mission Dress Rehearsals, and other key milestones.
• Interface with subcontractors and mission partners to manage requirements, schedules, and technical deliverables. 

Launch Vehicle Integration: 

• Oversee the integration of payloads with the launch vehicle, ensuring compatibility and compliance with mission requirements.
• Collaborate with engineering teams to resolve integration issues and ensure that both payload and vehicle systems meet performance and safety standards.
• Work closely with vehicle providers (e.g., ULA, SpaceX, Northrop Grumman) to manage launch site operations, technical reviews, and flight readiness certification.
• Identify, analyze, and manage technical, operational, and programmatic risks associated with the launch process.
• Develop and implement contingency plans and risk mitigation strategies to minimize potential impacts to the launch schedule and mission success.
• Conduct root cause analyses of any issues arising during the launch campaign and ensure corrective actions are taken. 

Regulatory Compliance & Safety: 

• Ensure that all launch operations comply with U.S. government regulations, including FAA, DoD, and other relevant agencies.
• Maintain strict adherence to safety protocols and launch site procedures to ensure the safe execution of all pre-launch and launch activities.
• Lead pre-launch safety reviews and ensure compliance with environmental and range safety standards. 

Mission Execution: 

• Oversee real-time launch operations, providing leadership and decision-making authority during countdowns and flight sequences.
• Coordinate with ground control teams to ensure smooth execution of launch procedures, vehicle health monitoring, and issue resolution.
• Lead post-launch assessments, including vehicle performance analysis and mission success evaluations, providing feedback for future missions. 

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related technical field (Master’s preferred). 
• 8+ years of experience in launch operations, aerospace systems engineering, or a related field. 
• Must have or be able to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI or TS/SAP U.S. government security clearance. 
• Demonstrated experience managing the full launch lifecycle, including planning, integration, testing, and execution of space or defense missions. 
• Strong knowledge of launch vehicles, propulsion systems, and ground systems, with a track record of successful mission execution. 
• Expertise in launch vehicle integration, ground operations, and flight dynamics. 
• Familiarity with mission assurance processes and regulatory frameworks (e.g., FAA, DoD, Range Safety). 
• Experience with launch planning and scheduling tools and software (e.g., MS Project, Primavera, or custom tools). 

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

• Experience in classified or national security space launches.
• Familiarity with various launch providers (e.g., ULA, SpaceX) and their respective vehicles (e.g., Falcon 9, Atlas V, Delta IV).
• Experience with military or government launch operations (e.g., NRO, USAF). 

COMPENSATION

• Base Salary:  $158,000 - $184,500
• Equity + Benefits including Health, Dental, Vision, HRA/HSA options, PTO and paid holidays, 401K, Parental Leave 

Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Work Location—Successful candidates will be located near Denver or Colorado Springs. While we observe a hybrid work environment, some work must be done on site.
• Work environment—the work environment; temperature, noise level, inside or outside, or other factors that will affect the person's working conditions while performing the job.
• Physical demands—the physical demands of the job, including bending, sitting, lifting and driving.

This position will be open until it is successfully filled. To submit your application, please follow the directions below.

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