Project Manager, Aerospace & Defense

This position is remote ; however, preference will be given to candidates located in the Los Angeles/Cudahy area to support occasional onsite collaboration and business needs. The Project Manager (PM) will lead and oversee the project execution for key accounts across multiple divisions within the Aerospace & Defense business unit. In this role, the PM will own and lead business review(s), stakeholder engagement/management, and partner with operations and commercial leadership to foster continuous improvement and operational excellence. You will ensure projects are delivered safely, on schedule, within budget, and to the exacting quality and compliance standards required by the aerospace and defense industry. This position requires strong communication and organizational skills, deep knowledge of aerospace quality systems, and the ability to build trusted relationships with customers while driving operational excellence and zero-incident safety performance. Responsibilities include but are not limited to: Provide leadership, oversight, and day-to-day management of all MISTRAS Aerospace & Defense projects, including NDT/NDI (UT, RT, PT, MT, VT, PAUT, and related advanced methods), access services, and supporting industrial services. Manage project scope, schedule, resources, budget, and deliverables from planning through closeout; develop and implement planning, cost control, and progress-tracking systems. Build and sustain strong customer relationships; serve as the primary point of contact for clients, delivering regular status updates, KPI reports, and ensuring 100% customer satisfaction. Ensure strict adherence to HSE, quality, and regulatory requirements (including applicable aerospace/defense standards such as Nadcap, AS9100, ITAR, and customer-specific procedures). Lead risk management efforts, resolve field issues and unanticipated complexities promptly, and drive continuous improvement in safety, quality, and efficiency. Assist with proposal development, scope definition, and budget estimation for new and ongoing Aerospace & Defense projects. Prepare and deliver accurate daily/weekly status reports, staffing plans, work-location tracking, and performance metrics to both customers and internal leadership. Demonstrate accessible, visible leadership that promotes positive employee morale, accountability, and adherence to company policies and procedures. Required Qualifications: High school diploma or equivalent required; Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business, Project Management, or a related technical field preferred. 5+ years of Project Management, with at least 3 years managing Tier 1 or Tier 2 Suppliers (Aerospace & Defense experience strongly preferred). Solid technical background in testing, inspections, and certifications, preferably within non-destructive test methods. Prior experience working in regulated industries with strict quality, safety, and compliance requirements (aerospace, defense, or similar highly regulated sectors). Strong customer relationship and communication skills (written and verbal); proven ability to manage stakeholders and deliver under pressure. Demonstrated leadership of cross-functional teams with a track record of maintaining exceptional HSE performance and meeting project KPIs. Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and project management tools; experience with data extraction, KPI reporting, and large worklists/spreadsheets. Willingness and ability to maintain a strong leadership presence, including travel to customer sites as required. S. citizenship or ability to meet ITAR and other security/compliance requirements may be necessary depending on specific projects; active or ability to obtain security clearance preferred for certain defense work. Preferred Qualifications: PMP or equivalent project management certification. API, ASNT, or other relevant NDT certifications. Experience with aerospace primes, defense contractors, or FAA-related work. Familiarity with MISTRAS systems or similar asset integrity/project management platforms. Additional Requirements: Pass pre-employment background check, alcohol/drug screen, and any required medical evaluations. Maintain relevant certifications and continue professional development as required. Demonstrate the highest commitment to safety, quality culture, and ethical conduct in all The salary range for this position is $120,000 to $140,000 annually, depending on experience and qualifications.