Program Lab Operations Manager

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation’s space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly engaged across all aspects of space— delivering innovative solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. When you join our team, you’ll be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Join us and take your place in space. The Defense Systems Group (DSG) provides analysis-based decision support to senior leaders on space architectures, policy and strategy, technology development, warfighter capability enablers, systems integration, defense industrial base, and threat reduction to help shape existing and future space missions across the national security space (NSS) enterprise. DSG is unique at Aerospace as it not only directly supports major customers, including the U.S. Space Force, U.S. Space Command, Air Force Materiel Command, and senior leadership at the Pentagon, but also provides a broad range of technical support across the national space enterprise, maintaining vertical responsibilities with customers’ portfolios as well as horizontal, matrixed responsibilities across the corporation. Additionally, DSG provides deep technical   expertise   to the Space Force Space Systems Command (SSC) in the conception, design, acquisition,   launch   and operations of satellite, launch vehicle, ground control, and range systems.   STARS, the   Spacelift   Telemetry Acquisition and Reporting System, is a networked, distributed processing system used to   acquire , process, analyze, display, and archive launch vehicle telemetry and other data for vehicle checkout and launch activities.   We are seeking a   Program   Lab   Operations Manager   to serve as the operational backbone of the STARS Mission Operations Center.   Reporting directly to the STARS Systems Director, you will   be responsible for   the coordination, tracking, and visibility of all program operations across our three sites, supporting a team of 20-30 people. This role requires exceptional organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple competing priorities in a fast-paced, mission-critical environment. You will manage budget tracking, asset inventory, procurement processes, and launch schedule coordination while serving as a key communication hub between our technical team, program office, customers, and corporate stakeholders. The ideal candidate is a self-starter who can quickly learn complex systems and processes, proactively   identify   gaps, and implement solutions that improve operational efficiency and visibility. While this role has some administrative elements, it is firmly rooted in program and project management, requiring someone who can think strategically about resource allocation, schedule impacts, and cross-functional coordination to ensure STARS is always ready to support launch operations.   The selected candidate will   be required   to work full-time, on-site at our Aerospace Technical Campus in El Segundo,   CA.        What   You’ll   Be Doing   Manage SPPE (Special Project Plant and Equipment) requests for big-ticket items ($5K+), coordinating procurement and tracking through completion   Maintain and update asset inventory across all three STARS sites, ensuring   accurate   records and accountability   Update and manage task tickets for STARS readiness reviews prior to every launch support   Track maintenance schedules, initiate maintenance renewals, and order new maintenance as needed to ensure platform reliability   Order parts and equipment as   required   to support operations   Track and update launch program calendars, including launches, integrated crew exercises, mission dress rehearsals, and review boards   Provide budget tracking and visibility across all WBS (work order numbers), producing reports and   identifying   variances   Support the STARS Systems Director in tracking outstanding items and tasks, including shipment tracking, hardware disposal, and technical task schedule impacts   Serve as the primary communication liaison between the STARS technical team and end users (program office and customers)   Coordinate with corporate stakeholders on tours and events held at STARS facilities   Work with the administrative team to ensure proper staffing levels for launch supports as part of readiness reviews   Identify   opportunities to improve operational processes, visibility, and efficiency   Maintain organized documentation and records for audits, reviews, and historical reference   What You Need to be Successful    Minimum   Requirements   - Project Management Lab Operations Staff III :   5   or more   years of professional experience in program operations, project coordination, or similar operational management roles   Proven ability to manage multiple complex workstreams simultaneously with strong attention to detail   Excellent organizational and time management skills with the ability to prioritize effectively   Strong written and verbal communication skills, with experience coordinating across diverse stakeholder groups   Experience with budget tracking, procurement processes, and inventory management   Familiarity with asset management systems and automated inventory tracking tools   Experience with Jira, Confluence, or similar project management and collaboration tools   Knowledge of government contracting, procurement regulations, or compliance requirements   Demonstrated ability to work independently, take initiative, and solve problems proactively   Proficiency   with Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook)   Ability to quickly learn new systems, processes, and technical concepts   Strong interpers