AEROSPACE PROJECT MANAGER

Company Description Flying Wedge Defence & Aerospace (FWD) is a cutting-edge defense company specializing in AI warfare systems, autonomous combat aircraft, and UAV technologies. Dedicated to advancing air defense capabilities, FWD focuses on creating innovative, efficient, and cost-effective solutions to enhance national security while minimizing human risk on the battlefield. With a strong commitment to the "Make in India & Export to the World" vision, FWD strives to contribute to global defense advancements through groundbreaking technology and engineering expertise. Please share your profiles on careers@fwdefence.comThe Aerospace Project Manager will be the central driving force responsible for the successful planning, execution, and delivery of our core UAV programs, particularly theMALE-class UAS . This role requires an individual with a strong technical background, exceptional organizational skills, and the ability to coordinate complex, cross-functional teams (Aerospace, Avionics, Software, and Manufacturing) to ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and meeting all technical and regulatory specifications.Key Responsibilities: PROJECT PLANNING AND SCHEDULING Develop comprehensive, detailed project plans, schedules, and milestones to track the entire product lifecycle from conceptual design through prototyping, testing, and production ramp-up. Define project scope, goals, and deliverables, involving all relevant stakeholders. Identify critical path tasks and proactively manage dependencies between engineering, procurement, and manufacturing teams. Manage the procurement, ensuring vendor selection meets technical requirements and tracking supply chain lead times to prevent delays on the critical path.EXECUTION AND PLANNING Lead daily/weekly project status meetings, documenting action items, and ensuring timely follow-through by team leads. Monitor progress against the schedule, identify variances, and implement corrective actions immediately to mitigate schedule slips. Maintain strict control over the program budget, tracking burn rate, forecasting expenditures, and managing variances to ensure projects remain financially viable. Oversee system integration efforts, particularly ensuring seamless compatibility between avionics, payload, and specialized communication systems.RISK, QUALITY AND REGULATORY MANAGEMENT Develop and maintain a robust risk register, identifying potential technical, supply chain, and regulatory risks, and developing comprehensive mitigation strategies. Ensure all design and manufacturing processes comply with relevant aviation standards (e.g., DGCA, military airworthiness standards) and internal quality control (QC) procedures. Act as the primary point of contact for external regulatory bodies and certification agencies, managing the documentation and submission process. Manage technical documentation control, ensuring all engineering changes, test reports, and configuration management data are accurately recorded and disseminated.STAKEHOLDER MANAGEMENT AND COMMUNICATION Serve as the primary communication link between technical teams, senior management (CEO/Board), and external stakeholders (vendors, partners, and potential defense/commercial clients). Prepare and deliver clear, concise program status reports, including schedule performance, budget summaries, and technical risk updates. Foster a collaborative and high-accountability environment across all functional teams (Aerodynamics, Structures, Software, Manufacturing).QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE Education:Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Aerospace, Mechanical) or a related technical field. A Master's degree or PMP/Agile certification is highly desirable. Experience:Minimum of 4 years of experience in project management, with at least 2 years directly managing complex hardware development or manufacturing projects within the aerospace, defense, or automotive sectors. Domain Knowledge:Proven understanding of the Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) lifecycle, including familiarity with system integration, composite manufacturing processes, and certification pathways in India. MALE UAV Specific:Experience with projects involving long-endurance propulsion systems, advanced avionics, and Satellite Communication (SATCOM) systems is a significant advantage.ESSENTIAL SKILLS AND ATTRIBUTES Technical Proficiency:Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, project plans, and technical specifications. Tools:Expert proficiency in project management software and enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems. Financial Acumen:Strong skills in budgeting, cost control, and financial forecasting. Communication:Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, capable of presenting complex information to diverse technical and executive audiences. Leadership:Demonstrated ability to lead, motivate, and direct cross-functional teams in a fast-paced, high-pressure startup environment.