Technical Program Manager, Defense Development

We turn light into insight!

Due to EXTENSIVE growth, we are currently looking for folks that share our passion to reveal the invisible!

We are seeking an experienced Technical Program Manager to lead complex electro optic technology programs supporting DoD initiatives. This role involves overseeing the full lifecycle of technical projects, ensuring alignment with DoD requirements, managing cross-functional teams, and delivering high-quality outcomes on time and within budget. The position requires an active U.S. security clearance (Secret or TS/SCI) and deep familiarity with government contracting environments.

• Security Clearance: Active Secret (minimum); must be maintainable
• Preference will be given to candidates within a COMMUTABLE DISTANCE to Salem, NH.

This full-time, exempt, office-based role will report to the CEO and will be located in our Salem, NH location.

Essential Responsibilities Lead and manage technical programs for DoD customers, including planning, execution, risk management, scheduling, budgeting, and performance monitoring.

Serve as the primary point of contact for government stakeholders, Contracting Officers (COs), and Contracting Officer Representatives (CORs).

Oversee cross-functional teams of engineers, analysts, and subcontractors to deliver capabilities in areas such as mission critical electrooptic subsystems.

Ensure compliance with DoD standards and develop and maintain detailed program plans, including work breakdown structures, integrated master schedules, and earned value management (EVM) reporting.

Identify, track, and mitigate technical, schedule, and cost risks; proactively resolve issues to maintain program momentum.

Prepare and deliver program reviews, status reports, and technical briefings to senior DoD leadership.

Support business development activities, including proposals, technical volumes, and capture efforts for new DoD opportunities.

Manage program financials, staffing, resource allocation, and subcontractor performance.

Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, or a related Physical Sciences (Master’s or PhD preferred).

8+ years of progressive experience in technical program or project management, with at least 5 years supporting DoD programs.

Proven track record managing complex, multi-million-dollar technology programs in classified or secure environments.

Active U.S. government security clearance.

Contract familiarity with FFP or Cost+ FFP

Deep knowledge of DoD acquisition processes, FAR/DFARS, and government contracting.

Proficiency in program management tools (e.g., Microsoft Project, Jira, Confluence, Primavera).

Ability to thrive in fast-paced, mission-oriented environments with evolving requirements.

Familiarity with CMMC data handling.

Strong problem-solving, risk management, and decision-making abilities.

Familiarity with emerging technologies relevant to DoD priorities.

Prior military or government service experience a plus

Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.

Misc Able to lift 20 lbs

Travel approx. 20% GPD provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

About GPD At GPD Optoelectronics, we believe that by operating with integrity and trust we drive constant organizational improvement, which strengthens our relationships with our employees and customers. Customer success remains our highest priority, so we strive to deliver high-quality products on time, and provide unparalleled service, responsiveness, and collaboration.

Founded in 1973 as Germanium Power Devices Corp, we began by making high-quality germanium transistors. Since the early 1980’s we have earned our place as a trusted manufacturer of both germanium and indium gallium arsenide photodiodes. We are located in Salem, NH.