Assistant Program Manager - Defense

Mettle Ops
  • Madison Heights, Michigan
    24 days ago

    Job Description

    The Assistant Program Manager (APM) supports the successful execution of defense-related programs, with a strong focus on contract flow, operational coordination, and program performance.

    This role is responsible for keeping programs moving—tracking activities, coordinating across teams, managing materials and subcontractors, and ensuring alignment with schedule, cost, and quality expectations.

    The APM works closely with program leadership to translate program objectives into actionable plans, monitor execution, and proactively address risks or delays.

    This is a hands-on, execution-driven role ideal for someone who thrives in fast-paced, structured environments where accountability and follow-through matter

     

    Key Responsibilities

    Program Execution & Coordination

    • Support day-to-day execution of U.S. Army and defense-related programs
    • Break down program objectives into actionable tasks and track progress
    • Coordinate activities across internal teams to ensure alignment with program priorities
    • Monitor schedules, milestones, and deliverables to ensure timely execution
    • Identify risks, delays, and blockers, and escalate as needed
    • Communicate program status, progress, and issues to leadership
     

    Contract & Operations Management

    • Track and support all activities required to maintain contract flow
    • Request quotes, issue purchase orders, and coordinate procurement activities
    • Organize and track shipping, deliveries, and material flow
    • Plan and monitor the use of materials across programs
    • Maintain accurate records related to contracts, materials, and program activity
    • Ensure alignment between contract requirements and operational execution
    • GSA schedules
     

    Subcontractor & Customer Coordination

    • Maintain strong working relationships with subcontractors and customers
    • Communicate requirements, pricing, timelines, and deliverables clearly
    • Ensure subcontractors are aligned with program expectations and schedules
    • Provide timely updates and support issue resolution as needed
     

    Performance Monitoring & Reporting

    • Review program and operational data to track performance and productivity
    • Identify opportunities for cost reduction and process improvement
    • Support reporting on program health, execution metrics, and outcomes
    • Assist in maintaining accountability for schedule, cost, and quality
     

    Process, Compliance & Quality Support

    • Support compliance with company and industry standards, including:
      • ISO requirements
      • AS9100 standards
    • Assist in maintaining and improving internal processes and documentation
    • Contribute to quality initiatives and continuous improvement efforts
     

    Cross-Functional Collaboration

    • Coordinate with engineering, operations, quality, and leadership teams
    • Help ensure alignment between program goals and execution activities
    • Support planning, prioritization, and resource coordination

     

     

    Numbers & Facts

    LocationMadison Heights, Michigan

    Skills

    • AS 9100unmatched
    • Continuous Improvementunmatched
    • Contract Managementunmatched
    • Contract Requirementsunmatched
    • Corporate Complianceunmatched
    • Cost Controlunmatched
    • Cross-Functionalunmatched
    • Customer Relationsunmatched
    • Documentationunmatched
    • Establish Prioritiesunmatched
    • Follow Throughunmatched
    • ISO (International Organization for Standardization)unmatched
    • Industry Standardsunmatched
    • Leadershipunmatched
    • Materials Managementunmatched
    • Metricsunmatched
    • Operational Auditunmatched
    • Operations Managementunmatched
    • Performance Analysisunmatched
    • Pricingunmatched
    • Problem Solving Skillsunmatched
    • Process Improvementunmatched
    • Project Trackingunmatched
    • Project/Program Coordinationunmatched
    • Project/Program Managementunmatched
    • Purchase Ordersunmatched
    • Purchasing/Procurementunmatched
    • Quality Assuranceunmatched
    • Record Keepingunmatched
    • Risk Analysisunmatched
    • Time Managementunmatched
    • United States Armyunmatched

    Be found by employers

    5,500+ employers search our resume database daily. Add yours to get found by recruiters looking for candidates like you.

    Level up your application

    Professional resume templates

    Browse dozens of recruiter approved resume templates, layouts and formats. Choose your favorite and make it your own in minutes.

    Free resume templates

    Free resume builder

    Improve your existing resume or start from scratch and create a standout, ATS-friendly resume. Add job-specific content, download and apply.

    Free resume builder