Aerospace Programming and Planning Manager

OVERVIEW

The Aerospace Planning and Program Manager plays a central role in advancing Merrick's aerospace practice through hands-on client delivery and cross-disciplinary collaboration on some of the sector's most critical infrastructure projects. This position works across government and commercial clients in the airport, spaceport, New Space, and advanced aviation markets, helping plan and deliver complex programs that shape the future of aerospace infrastructure. The role combines technical planning and program leadership with close client engagement, regulatory coordination, and collaboration across Merrick's business units, offering meaningful exposure to cutting-edge projects and long-term career growth for the right candidate. The successful candidate will be responsible for delivering high-quality work and collaborating effectively with colleagues across the firm to strengthen client relationships and drive sustained business growth.

Salary range for this position is $147,500 to $169,600 depending on experience.

WHAT YOU"LL DO

Client Delivery and Program Execution

• Manage and provide service delivery to aerospace clients on planning, design, engineering, and related project execution.
• Develop, maintain, and manage program plans, schedules, and budgets in coordination with project managers and technical leads.
• Coordinate activities among planning, design, engineering, and multi-disciplinary teams to ensure integrated and timely delivery.
• Track, report, and communicate program progress, risks, and issues to internal leadership and client stakeholders.
• Serve as a primary point of contact between clients, design teams, consultants, and regulatory or permitting authorities.
• Support contract administration, including scope coordination, contract negotiations, and consultant management.
• Implement and refine program management and delivery processes to improve efficiency, consistency, and quality across aerospace projects.

Technical Planning and Advisory Support

• Contribute to airport and spaceport planning efforts, including master planning, facility planning, operational planning, and phasing strategies.
• Support analyses related to aerospace operations, infrastructure requirements, regulatory pathways, and stakeholder coordination.
• Assist with coordination related to FAA, environmental, and other regulatory processes as applicable to aerospace and aviation facilities.

Market Growth Support

• Collaborate with the Director of Aerospace Strategy and other leaders to help shape service offerings, delivery approaches, and internal best practices.
• Support business development activities by contributing to proposals, qualifications, and technical narratives for aerospace pursuits.
• Assist with market research, client engagement activities, and identification of emerging opportunities in the aerospace, airport, and spaceport sectors.
• Participate in client meetings, industry events, and internal strategy discussions that support practice growth.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, aviation management, or a closely related field.
• Approximately 7 years of professional experience supporting aviation, aerospace, airport, and/or spaceport projects.
• Experience with program management, project coordination, or delivery of planning and engineering services.
• Familiarity with airport and/or spaceport operations, planning, or infrastructure development.
• Ability to coordinate across technical disciplines and communicate effectively with clients, consultants, and regulators.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage schedules, budgets, and competing priorities.
• Client projects for this position require U.S. Citizenship.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Recent experience with FAA airport and/or spaceport regulations and licensing processes
• Experience on airport and/or spaceport staff, preferably in a management role
• Professional certifications related to the job description

PERKS

• Employee Owned - all eligible U.S. employees have an Employee Stock Ownership Account.
• Robust Employee Referral Program.
• Annual performance and compensation reviews.
• Professional Training and Development.
• Employee Recognition Awards.
• Peer Mentor Program
• And Much More!

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• Apply online only. No e-mail, hard copy or third-party resumes accepted.
• At Merrick, every resume is carefully reviewed by our team of experienced human recruiters-never by AI. We are committed to a fully human-centered hiring process, ensuring each candidate receives thoughtful, personalized attention at every stage.
• Merrick & Company offers a competitive compensation and benefits package which includes health insurance, dental and vision coverage, 401(k), and paid time off (PTO).
• Merrick is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/vets.
• Employment with Merrick is contingent upon completion of a pre-employment background check, MVR check, and drug screen.