Attalon is a global leader in optics and laser solutions. Our Richmond, California facility specializes in the manufacture of precision optical components and assemblies. This site combines advanced engineering, mechatronics, and high‑precision manufacturing to support cutting‑edge technology across multiple industries.
Job TitleSr. Principal Program Manager - Aerospace and Defense
Job DetailsAttalon delivers engineered optical, opto‑mechanical, and precision subsystem solutions for aerospace, defense, and commercial customers.
The Sr. Principal Program Manager is an individual contributor who leads complex programs from contract award through engineering, manufacturing, qualification, and delivery. This role owns full lifecycle execution of technically sophisticated hardware and subsystems, ensuring scope, schedule, cost, risk, and customer satisfaction objectives are met.
The PM serves as the central integration point across engineering, operations, supply chain, quality, finance, and business development. Success requires strong technical fluency, disciplined program execution, proactive risk management, and clear communication with demanding defense and commercial customers.
ResponsibilitiesLead program execution from sales handoff through delivery.Serve as the primary customer interface for technical and schedule updates.Maintain integrated schedules, execution plans, and cross‑functional alignment.Own program financials: revenue, cost, margin, forecasting, and corrective actions.Identify and mitigate technical, schedule, supply chain, and financial risks.Drive cross‑functional performance in a matrixed environment.Manage scope and contract changes.Deliver required program documentation and reporting.Resolve technical and quality issues with internal teams and customers.Support proposals, vendor evaluations, feasibility reviews, and follow‑on opportunities.Ensure compliance with ISO, regulatory, and export‑control requirements.Minimum QualificationsBachelor’s degree in Engineering, Applied Science, or related technical discipline.12+ years of program/project management in aerospace, defense, optics, or complex hardware (or 10+ with advanced degree).Experience leading technically complex hardware or opto‑mechanical programs.Direct experience with aerospace, commercial, or government customers.Proven cross‑functional leadership in a matrixed environment.Due to program requirements, U.S. Citizenship is requiredPreferred QualificationsMaster’s degree in Engineering, Systems Engineering, or Business.Experience with aerospace prime or commercial programs.Background in optics, optical systems, or precision subsystem manufacturing.Familiarity with risk management frameworks and readiness reviews.Experience with ISO 9001 or AS9100 environments.Proficiency with tools such as Wrike.Strong executive‑level presentation skills.For California, the base salary pay range for this role is $122,750.00 - $221,000.00
Please note this range is provided as a general guideline. When determining an offer, Attalon takes into account multiple factors, including (but not limited to) the responsibilities of the position, your professional experience, education and training, specialized skills, and current market and business conditions.
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement
Attalon, Inc. is 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.
Export Control Compliance
This role involves access to technology, materials, software, or hardware subject to U.S. export control laws. Therefore, to be considered, candidates must be classified as a “U.S. Person” under applicable regulations or be eligible for authorization under a U.S. government export license.
Read LessAttalon is a leading technology partner to the global aerospace and defense industry, specializing in the physics of light and heat. With over 500 employees in the U.S., Attalon engineers critical optical, laser, and coating technologies that enable systems to see farther, target faster, and survive the harshest environments. From high-energy directed laser systems to satellite optics and hypersonic thermal protection, Attalon equips the warfighter with the advantage of precision.
Why Join Us?
Be part of a cutting-edge team that is reshaping the landscape of high-power fiber amplifiers, lasers, and optical systems. Our inclusive and adaptive work environment fuels rapid innovation and growth, offering unique opportunities to develop technical expertise while contributing to our mission.
Job Summary:
Join our rapidly growing Advanced Defense Solutions (ADS) group in Bloomfield as a Sr. Manufacturing Technician, specializing in the assembly, testing, and support of high-power fiber amplifiers, lasers, and systems. This highly technical role involves working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with cutting-edge photonics technology and consistently evolving designs aimed at pushing the boundaries of performance.
Responsibilities:
Work with high power (>1 kW) fiber amplifiers/lasersExecute all optical, mechanical, and electrical assembly stations Ability to follow step by step work instructions to build high quality sub-assembliesPerform all test functions including PER, M2, LIV, and spectral characterizationAssist with equipment maintenance and organizationDemonstrate proficiency with small and large diameter fiberOperate fiber fusion splicers, fiber re-coaters, fiber cleavers, optical spectrum analyzers, optical power meters, power supplies, photo detectors, and oscilloscopesSupport Lean Initiatives including 3S weekly & 6S monthly activities.Demonstrate ability to adapt and learnAssist with documentation as neededEnsure a safe work environment and cultivate safe behaviorsMinimum Qualifications:
Ability to work in teamsStrong capability to work independently and manage tasks with minimal supervisionAbility to adapt and learnPreferred Qualifications:
Associate's degree in Electro-Optic Technology or equivalent preferred but not required
(2+) years of fiber laser build and test experience desiredAbility to work with small and large diameter fiberAbility to work with fiber optic and free-space optical componentsOperational familiarity with fiber fusion splicers, fiber re-coaters, fiber cleavers, optical spectrum analyzers, laser beam analyzers, optical power meters, power supplies, photo detectors, and oscilloscopesEqual Opportunity Employer Statement
Attalon, Inc. is 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.
Export Control Compliance
This role involves access to technology, materials, software, or hardware subject to U.S. export control laws. Therefore, to be considered, candidates must be classified as a “U.S. Person” under applicable regulations or be eligible for authorization under a U.S. government export license.
