Program Manager at Thales Avionics, Inc. (IFE) in Irvine, California

Job Description:

Location: Irvine, United States of America

Thales people architect solutions that enable two-thirds of planes to take off and land safely. We create in-flight entertainment systems that engross 50 million fliers every year and we develop the avionics that control the world’s largest commercial aircrafts. Our simulators train the next generation of pilots for fighter jets, transporters and search and rescue helicopters. And, together, each and every member of our aerospace team makes a difference.

The Customer Program Manager in or near Irvine, California is responsible for managing the execution of assigned customer program(s) from Sales handover through delivery of the final aircraft and closure of commitment letter items. Responsible for the cost and schedule performance and risk management for assigned programs. Coordinates with internal Thales organizations, to communicate customer requirements and execute the program with technical accuracy, consistency and profitability as well as managing the communications and relations with customer/s.

Key Responsibilities:

• Support the bid process for Sales and Bid Management, by developing Program Management bid inputs, identifying risks and coordinating technical responses.




• Participate in the handover meeting from Sales and Bid Management to Program Management.




• Coordinate with the functional managers to identify and establish a cross-functional program team in accordance with the established Work Breakdown Structure (WBS).




• Develop the program Bill of Materials (BOM).  Identify risk areas and seek to stabilize the BOM as early in the program as possible in order to satisfy contractual deliveries.




• Conduct the internal program Kick Off Meeting (KOM) to facilitate communication of the airline customer expectations, and the delivery schedule for parts/services and documentation necessary




• Ensure Internal Change Orders (ICOs) are released in a timely manner within normal production lead times, to the maximum extent allowed by the customer agreement.




• Direct and oversee program activities to assure the accomplishment of program objectives in a profitable way that meets or exceeds customer and Thales expectations.




• For new programs, implement the Manage Program (MAP) program-tracking tool.  Once the MAP is set up, maintain and update of the program MAP on a frequent basis.  Ensure that accurate program records are maintained in accordance with current document retention and filing processes.




• Maintain a program master schedule including key program milestones, technical data deliverables and critical path decision gates




• Conduct regular program team meetings to review schedule performance, cost performance BOM status, risk areas and customer satisfaction.  Risk management is a key role of a program manager inclusive of documentation in accordance with the current risk management tracking tools.




• Routinely assess program financial profit and loss data for the assigned program.  Monitor non-recurring cost expenditures to ensure alignment with program budgets and spending plan.  Manage budget changes, monitor actual expenditures and estimate financials at program completion as well as the work remaining to complete the program.  Coordinate closely with finance.




• Correspond directly with the external airline customer, aircraft manufacturer and seat supplier as directed and approved by the supervising Program Manager.  Ensure all correspondence is high quality, accurate and timely and respects the intellectual property agreements in place.




• Prepare for, and participate in, program milestone meetings such as Preliminary Design Reviews (PDRs), Critical Design Reviews (CDRs), First Article Inspections (FAIs), Program Management Reviews (PMRs) and other applicable meetings.




• Assist the Finance Department in the receipt of Purchase Orders (POs) from airline customers and aircraft manufacturers.  Ensure POs are received in advance of committed shipping dates to avoid potential revenue gaps and customer satisfaction issues.




• Close the project (archiving documents, closing expenditure authorizations) by capitalizing and sharing the enterprise experience.

Required Skills and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant technical discipline from four-year College or university with 7 - 8 years related experience; AND/OR Master’s degree or equivalent; and 5 – 7 years related experience.




• Demonstrated customer facing skill set with high level decision makers




• Must be able to work in a fast paced environment while maintaining accuracy and efficiency




• A minimum of 5 years of project management experience




• Travel: Up to 50% domestic and international travel depending on the specific customer.  Valid passport is required.




• Familiarity with SAP, Primavera, Microsoft Project tools.

Preferred Skills and Experience:

• IPMA or PMP Certification preferred




• Experience working in the aviation industry or on international avionics projects




• FAA Certification experience

Travel: 

Up to 50% domestic and international travel depending on the specific customer.  Valid passport is required.

This position will require successfully completing a post-offer background check. Qualified candidates with (a) criminal history will be considered and are not automatically disqualified, consistent with federal law, state law, and local ordinances.

Successful applicant must comply with federal contractor vaccine mandate requirements.

Thales champions inclusion and we believe diversity strengthens the fabric of our culture. We are an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law

If you need an accommodation or assistance in order to apply for a position with Thales, please contact us at talentacquisition@us.thalesgroup.com.