SENIOR PROJECT MANAGER

Location: Bingen, WA

Full Time, On-site 

About Zepher Flight Laboratories, Inc. (ZFL): We are an engineering and manufacturing company focused on the development of uncrewed and autonomous aerial vehicles (UAVs). ZFL’s mission is to enable the widespread use of drones by creating products that can scale in both manufacturing and operations. 

Zepher Flight Laboratories, Inc. (ZFL) is developing the “Z1”, a 55 pound, 14-foot span VTOL drone that is powered by hydrogen fuel cells. ZFL received a government contract in 2020 to create the Z1 prototype, and a second contract in 2022 to productize and deliver test articles to the U.S. Military. ZFL relies upon engineers, technicians, and operators who are able and willing to make this next phase of the program a success. ZFL employees must have a good combination of skill, industry knowledge, curiosity, and drive to solve problems effectively and quickly.

The Senior Project Manager is an experienced project leader who leads all phases of contracting, proposals, and program execution. They also partner closely with engineering on design and development work. This role manages complex projects or multi-phase programs, ensuring contractual and strategic deliverables are met by overseeing budgets, resources, timelines, risk management, and financial performance. The Senior Project Manager contributes to operational excellence, drives process improvement, and maintains program visibility while also providing mentorship and guidance to less-experienced project managers. The role provides cross-functional leadership across engineering, operations, and subcontractors. This position requires adaptability under pressure, advanced problem-solving, and a commitment to continuous improvement. Success in this role depends on applying strategic thinking at the program level and leveraging tools such as process automation, data-driven decision-making, and risk management to deliver successful outcomes.

Reporting to the Director of Programs, the Senior Project Manager shall:

• Track Project Finances: Oversee and report on budgets across complex projects or programs. Ensure compliance with allocations, manage risks of overruns, and provide financial visibility to leadership. Partner with the Engineering Director and Director of Programs on budget reviews and purchase approvals.
• Lead Project/Programs: Direct the planning and execution of complex projects or multi-phase programs. Provide formal status briefs and program reviews to leadership and stakeholders. Guide project teams in meeting established milestones, maintaining visibility on scope, schedule, and risks.
• Manage Program Information: Ensure accurate, comprehensive documentation, schedules, and status tools are maintained across projects. Drive development of reporting tools in coordination with engineering, operations, and supply chain.
• Monitor Program Performance: Assess program performance against objectives and milestones, implement corrective actions, and escalate critical issues to leadership.
• Develop Proposals: Lead proposal efforts, including strategy, planning, budgeting, and risk assessment. Ensure proposals align with company goals and customer expectations.
• Communicate Effectively: Serve as the primary interface with customers, suppliers, and leadership, fostering transparent communication and alignment across teams.
• Drive Process Improvement: Champion improvements to project and program management practices, ensuring efficiency, consistency, and scalability.
• Ensure Compliance and Safety: Maintain accountability for compliance with contractual obligations, industry standards, and safety guidelines.

The Senior Project Manager shall have:

• Experience: 8–12 years of project or program management experience, preferably in aerospace, defense, or other technical industries.
• Education: BA/BS degree required; MBA or PMP certification preferred.
• Technical Skills: Expertise in program execution, scheduling, financial management, and risk oversight; strong understanding of UAV technology and engineering; and proven experience developing and maintaining integrated program schedules and financial reports (MS Project or similar).
• Problem-Solving: Advanced analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to anticipate challenges and drive effective solutions.
• Communication: Strong written, verbal, and presentation skills, capable of conveying complex information to leadership and external stakeholders.
• Interpersonal Skills: Skilled in cross-functional collaboration with the ability to influence and maintain credibility with customers, suppliers, and senior leadership.
• Initiative: Demonstrated ability to take ownership of complex programs and proactively drive them to successful completion.
• Adaptability: Ability to navigate evolving environments and adjust strategies to address shifting priorities or challenges.
• Attention to Detail: Maintains high standards for accuracy and quality while managing multiple priorities.
• Software Proficiency: Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite and program management tools such as MS Project or equivalent.
• Documentation: Ensure comprehensive and accurate program documents, procedures, and risk management plans are maintained.
• Physical Demands: Includes standing, walking, lifting, carrying, sitting, keyboarding, and occasional travel.
• Other duties as assigned.

• Advanced degree (MBA or equivalent) or PMP certification.
• Extensive background in the aerospace and defense industry, with direct knowledge of uncrewed aerial systems strongly preferred.
• Eligibility to obtain a DOD Secret clearance.

This position may require access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). To conform to the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicant must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., or protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).

Zepher Flight Labs is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified candidates will be considered for employment regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, (including pregnancy and gender identity), sexual orientation, political affiliation, national origin, marital status, medical condition, disability, genetic information, parental status, military or Veteran status.

Compensation & Benefits:
We’re proud to offer a competitive total rewards package that includes medical, dental, and vision coverage, 401(k) retirement plan, Employee Stock Ownership Program (ESOP), long-term and short-term disability, and life insurance. Pay is based on experience. This position is located in Bingen, WA, and does not include relocation assistance.