Aviation Networks Project Manager

Aviation Networks Project Manager

uAvionix is an agile and disruptive aviation hardware and services organization driven to change the face of airspace integration. We're passionate innovators delivering products with more features, tighter integration and unheard-of size, weight and power.

The Aviation Networks Project Manager is a hands-on, multi-functional role responsible for ensuring the successful deployment and integration of aviation network solutions for Air Traffic Control (ATC), Air Traffic Management (ATM) and Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) operations. This role involves direct customer interaction, project management, and oversight of technical installations and subcontractors. The Project Manager will oversee and sometimes support field installations, support management of third-party contractors for electrical and network installations, provide status and customer-facing documentation, and provide system training to ensure seamless experience.

This position will directly support and manage uAvionix contracts under the Surface Awareness Initiative (SAI) program for the FAA and Airborne Position Reference Tool (APRT) deployments for Federal Contract Towers. This position requires a master communicator and problem-solver with broad expertise in project execution in dynamic aviation environments, including air traffic control towers and aircraft tracking applications.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Act as the primary point of contact with customers throughout the implementation process, ensuring smooth and efficient deployment.
• Manage end-to-end implementation projects, including scheduling, logistics, and coordination with internal teams and third-party vendors.
• Maintain open and clear communication with customers to ensure their requirements are met, and expectations are exceeded.
• Provide training and support for customers.
• Coordinate an interdepartmental team to complete an assigned project on time, to specifications, and with accuracy and efficiency.
• Outlines the tasks involved in the project and delegates accordingly.
• Supports cost analysis, estimating expected costs for the project.
• Conduct risk assessments; reports identified risks to management; provides recommendations for mitigation of risk (including termination of the project if appropriate).
• Addresses questions, concerns, and/or complaints throughout the project.
• Acts as a liaison between company, customers, and vendors.
• Ensures compliance with federal, state, local, industry, contractual, and company regulations, standards, specifications, and best practices.
• Creates, contributes, updates, and delivers program documentation including customer facing Contract Deliverable Line Items (CDRLs) with high quality and on schedule.
• Manages site configuration from site survey through installation and sign-off to ensure equipment placement meets performance requirements, usability, and site acceptance.
• Responsible for service acceptance testing conduct.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Vendor & Subcontractor Management

• Work with internal Implementation Team members to oversee subcontractors performing electrical, fiber optic, and network infrastructure installations.
• Coordinate work schedules, quality assurance, and compliance with technical specifications.
• Review contractor performance and ensure adherence to project deadlines and budget constraints.

Required Skills and Abilities

• Strong project management skills with experience in implementation, deployment, or customer success roles.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to interact effectively with customers, vendors, and internal teams.
• Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Problem-solving mindset with a proactive approach to addressing customer needs.
• Willingness to travel as needed (50% on average) for on-site installations and customer support. During peak short duration program times, this figure may be exceeded.
• Ability to pass background checks to obtain security clearance from Department of Transportation for access to airport facilities and sensitive information.
• Willingness and ability to cross-train team members on specialized skills to improve overall team effectiveness.

Education and Experience

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Engineering, IT, Networking, Aviation, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum 3-5 years of experience in project management or customer success role.
• Experience in aviation, air traffic control, IoT, or telecommunications is a plus.
• Project management certification (PMP or equivalent) is a plus.

Climbing / Working at Heights Requirement

This position requires the ability to safely climb and work at elevated heights as part of essential job duties. Employees must be able to:

• Climb ladders, towers, scaffolding, and similar structures as required.
• Work at heights exceeding 24 feet.
• Use fall protection equipment, including harnesses and tie-off systems.
• Maintain balance and coordination while working in elevated or outdoor environments.
• Ascend and descend vertical structures multiple times per shift.
• Carry tools and equipment while climbing.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs.
• Comfortable working in field environments, including air traffic control towers, hangars, and outdoor installations.
• Prolonged periods of standing, kneeling, or working in confined spaces as needed for installation work.
• Ability to perform work at heights for extended periods.
• Must be able to pass required safety training and, if applicable, certification for tower or elevated work.