Subcontract Program Manager

Scottsdale, AZ · Fairfax, VA · San Jose, CA$160k–$170kPosted Jul 13, 2026

Basic Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent is required plus a minimum of 8 years relevant experience; or Master's degree plus a minimum of 6 years relevant experience to meet managerial expectations.CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS:Department of Defense Secret security clearance is required at time of hire. Applicants selected will be subject to a U.S. Government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information. Due to the nature of work performed within our facilities, U.S. citizenship is required.

Responsibilities for this Position

The responsibility is career-defining. So is the opportunity. At General Dynamics Mission Systems, we invent the technologies, products and services, that help our nation’s heroes keep our nation safe. The work is so advanced, our teams regularly redefine innovation and excellence for the world. If you’re looking for a challenge, you’ve just found it.We apply advanced technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Blockchain, AR/VR, Cloud Native and Quantum Physics to solve our customers’ missions in cyber, RF, undersea, interstellar and everything in between.

Duties and Tasks:

As a Subcontract Program Manager (SPM), primary responsibilities include: leading the Subcontract Management Team (SMT) for specific programs with Major Subcontract content; leads the SMT in a cross-functional team structure which is comprised of Subcontract Contract Administrators (SCA), Technical Engineers, Quality Engineers, and program support stakeholders as needed (i.e., Program Manager, Deputy Program Manager Engineer, Contracts, Finance, Configuration Management & Data Management (CM/DM), Software Engineers, Cybersecurity Engineers, Program Security, etc.).
Utilizes proposal plans and strategies to lead SMT in developing, defining, and implementing cohesive, integrated program and subcontractor plans and business plans that achieve overall objectives of the program and to manage all aspects of Subcontractor performance.
Works with the SMT to compile, develop, and review strategic down-selecting strategies, long-term agreements and strategic teaming agreements, subcontractor cost targets, Request for Information (RFI) and Request for Proposal (RFP) solicitation packages, Statements of Work (SOWs) and specifications, subcontractor proposal evaluations, award justifications, negotiation plans, and milestone payment plans or phased spending profiles.
Develops and maintains long-lasting relationships with key subcontractors while effectively managing their performance and deliverables to meet program requirements and commitments.
Establishes requirements and monitoring measures in SOWs and plans for subcontractors to achieve quality standards and meet cost / schedule / technical commitments to the business. Works with the program team to identify, mitigate, and balance the subcontractor’s risks and opportunities with executable strategies to meet technical requirements and budgets.
Manages the subcontractor’s performance to baseline plans to ensure rate of work completion is sufficient to meet program schedules and budget. Manages scope changes and impacts and develops corrective action plans as required.
Performs or supports, as required, the GDMS Cost Account Manager (CAM) role for subcontract WBS elements of the Integrated Master Plan for the program. Will oversee subcontractor’s Earned Value Management System (EVMS) performance when required. Approves subcontractor invoices processed by the SCA.
Prepares and presents the subcontract performance status to executive leadership and external customers monthly and upon request.

Position Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Ability to lead high performance, cross-functional subcontract management teams and to manage major subcontractor’s performance throughout the contract period of performance.
Ability to lead or influence others in team building, conflict resolution, motivation, development and execution of proposal plans, baseline plans, on-going scope change management, and long-term subcontract strategies for senior level reviews.
Ability to apply and adapt existing Program Management knowledge, skills, and abilities to be accountable and take ownership for delegated subcontract program management responsibilities across several programs or as the primary SPM for one or more programs and/or proposals within a business area.
Desires and accepts increased responsibilities over time.
Has the ability to understand highly complex mission systems and products.
Demonstrates the confidence and professional diplomacy, while effectively relating to all people at all levels internally and externally.
Understands priorities, escalation timing, cultural norms, and unwritten rules for success at all levels of the organization.
A deep understanding of interrelationships, roles, and responsibilities of the internal and external organization.
Working knowledge to drive the development and implementation of Subcontract elements of a Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) including Cost Account Management and EVMS.
Ability to generate cohesive subcontract program plans.
Must be able to establish and assure adherence to subcontract budgets, schedules, work plans, and performance requirements.
Ability to track work accomplished to baseline plans and identify issues, track progress, and follow through on effective corrective actions based on data analysis and trends.
A deep understanding of program schedules, risk areas, slack time, and critical path.
Ability to understand and analyze subcontractors’ program financial data.
Skilled in communicating issues, impacts, and corrective actions on subcontracted efforts to internal and external representatives.
Demonstrates strong verbal and written communication skills.
Ability to evaluate quality of work product to ensure satisfaction of customer requirements.
Demonstrates the understanding of advanced risk and opportunity management techniques.
Ability to apply advanced negotiation skills to solve internal, external and customer issues.
Demonstrates the understanding of business objectives and long-term subcontract strategy.
Ability to develop negotiation strategies to support subcontract negotiation tactics which meet program budgets.
Ability to interact and communicate frequently with internal personnel and outside representatives at various levels.
Working Knowledge of MS Project, Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Sharepoint repositories, CM/DM, Contract Data Requirements Lists (CDRLs), Earned Value Management System requirements.
Must be able to work on site and within SCIF (Scottsdale or Fair Lakes) for a majority of the work week.
Required to travel on an as needed basis up to 20% of the time.

Salary Note

This estimate represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors (geographic location, etc.). Actual pay may vary. This job posting will remain open until the position is filled.

Combined Salary Range

USD $160,400.00 - USD $170,300.00 /Yr.

Company Overview

At General Dynamics Mission Systems, we rise to the challenge each day to ensure the safety of those that lead, serve, and protect the world we live in. We do this by making the world’s most advanced defense platforms even smarter. Our engineers redefine what’s possible and our manufacturing team brings it to life, building the brains behind the brawn on submarines, ships, combat vehicles, aircraft, satellites, and other advanced systems.

We pride ourselves in being a great place to work with this shared sense of purpose, committed to a diverse and exciting employee experience that drives innovation and creates a community where all feel welcome and a part of something amazing.

We offer highly competitive benefits and a flexible work environment where contributions are recognized and rewarded. To see more about our benefits, visit https://gdmissionsystems.com/careers/why-work-for-us/benefits

General Dynamics is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer that is committed to hiring a diverse and talented workforce. EOE/Disability/Veteran