Position Overview
As a member of the Global Advanced Product Development team, the Product Development Owner will lead and manage complex defense projects, focusing on technology, business acumen, and project management discipline. This position requires close collaboration with the Chief Technical Officer and director of Global Advanced Product Development to ensure successful execution of technology development projects within budget and schedule across multiple stakeholders within GDLS and customer communities. Responsibilities include managing project scope negotiations, design, development, testing, change management, procurement, build, delivery, and corrective actions. The position is based in Sterling Heights, Michigan.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead development of new products that intend to disrupt the industry and our competitors
- Develop teammates to grow and progress within the enterprise with the drive to innovate and disrupt the market.
- Collaborate with the Chief Technical Officer, Process Center Leadership, and supporting organizations to meet/exceed project expectations.
- Develop detailed business plans and analyses to bring new products to production and deliver high-margin returns on investment.
- Lead and coordinate across program/process owners to meet financial goals and maximize operational efficiency.
- Lead projects with decision-making authority, including stakeholder, supplier, and internal meetings as required.
- Manage project risk through team reviews and keep stakeholders and GDLS leadership informed of project progress.
- Develop and implement program plans across cross-functional GDLS locations and teams, ensuring successful transitions to production.
- Develop new and improved business processes to enhance efficiency.
- Coordinate supplier efforts through Supply Chain Management to reduce risk and eliminate conflicts with other programs and priorities.
- Ensure key interfaces are identified and stakeholder interests are managed within scope, cost, and schedule.
Required Qualifications
- University degree in Business Administration, Engineering, or related disciplines. Relevant experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
- Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams.
- Experience in Program Management, Engineering Project Management, Integrated Project Team (IPT) leadership, or related fields.
- Experience managing efforts and/or negotiating contracts with customers, teammates, and/or subcontractors.
- Understanding and experience with Government contracts.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to influence and collaborate.
- Must be able to obtain a U.S. security clearance.
- Ability to travel (20% International) and possess/maintain a valid passport.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience working with Military Personnel.
- PMP certification or equivalent program management certification.
- Experience working directly with DoD customers such as the Army, Navy, Air Force, or SOCOM.
- Knowledge of the latest technologies and innovation trends in the industry such as artificial intelligence, radar, thermal sensors, quantum computing, high power microwave, high power laser, drones, robots, swarms, etc.
- Familiarity with agile program management practices in a defense contracting environment.
- Prior military experience or defense industry leadership roles.
What We Offer
- Healthcare including medical, dental, vision, HSA, and Flex Spending.
- Competitive base pay, incentive pay that rewards individual and team performance, and comprehensive benefits.
- 401k Match (6%) with no vesting period.
- Educational Assistance up to $10k per year.
- 9-80 Work Schedule (employees work a nine-hour day Monday through Thursday and take every other Friday off).
- Ongoing learning opportunities within a diverse, inclusive, and rewarding work environment.
- Onsite Cafeteria, remodeled Fitness Center with new equipment, and Outdoor fitness track.
Key Competencies
- Precision in daily operational oversight.
- Analytical mindset for cost and schedule tracking.
- Leadership under pressure.
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General Dynamics Land Systems
401(k)
Dec 02, 2025