Project Manager - Unmanned Aerial Systems

Position Overview:
Indigo Industries is seeking a highly capable and hands-on Project Manager with deep experience in Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) and a proven track record of delivering technically complex projects on time and within budget. This is a role for a leader who thrives in high-tempo, prototype-driven environments and is as comfortable managing detailed schedules and budgets as they are troubleshooting integration challenges in the field. Key Responsibilities: Lead full lifecycle management of UAS programs from concept through design, integration, test, delivery, and transition. Develop and maintain detailed program schedules, identifying critical path items and rapidly mitigating delays to meet aggressive timelines. Manage budgets, cost estimates, and resource allocation across engineering, testing, and production phases-ensuring projects stay within scope and financial constraints. Drive coordination across cross-functional teams, including hardware/software engineers, systems integrators, T&E staff, logistics planners, and acquisition professionals. Translate operational requirements into actionable plans with measurable milestones and stakeholder alignment. Lead risk identification and mitigation planning throughout the program lifecycle. Oversee technical integration of COTS, GOTS, and custom hardware/software into airframe platforms-ensuring interoperability and mission performance. Interface with vendors, subcontractors, and external stakeholders to manage deliverables, track dependencies, and enforce quality standards. Support operational test events and demonstrations, including planning, logistics, execution, and reporting. Required Qualifications: 8+ years of project or program management experience in defense, aerospace, or advanced technology fields-preferably with UAS platforms. Demonstrated experience managing complex technical programs under aggressive schedules and constrained budgets. Proficiency with project management tools (e.g., MS Project, Smartsheet, or similar) and financial tracking systems. Deep understanding of UAS systems, including airframe design, avionics, propulsion, C2, sensors, and mission payloads. Strong leadership and communication skills-able to align multidisciplinary teams and influence both technical and non-technical stakeholders. Familiarity with rapid acquisition pathways (MTA, OTA, RDER, etc.) and non-traditional prototyping cycles.
Preferred Experience:
Prior experience delivering UAS capabilities to DoD, IC, or Allied users. PMP, DAWIA, or equivalent project management certification.
Working knowledge of DoD compliance requirements, airworthiness processes, and operational test environments. Comfortable operating in ambiguous and evolving technical landscapes, where priorities shift and field-driven feedback shapes execution. What We Look For:
Indigo values execution-focused leaders with a bias for action, a tolerance for uncertainty, and a relentless drive to deliver. If you thrive in hands-on environments where innovation meets operational urgency, we want to hear from you.