Job Description

PROJECT MANAGER

Location: Bingen, WA

Full Time, On-site 

About Zepher Flight Laboratories, Inc. (ZFL): We are an engineering and manufacturing company focused on the development of uncrewed and autonomous aerial vehicles (UAVs). ZFL's mission is to enable the widespread use of drones by creating products that can scale in both manufacturing and operations. 

Zepher Flight Laboratories, Inc. (ZFL) is developing the “Z1”, a 55 pound, 14-foot span VTOL drone that is powered by hydrogen fuel cells. ZFL received a government contract in 2020 to create the Z1 prototype, and a second contract in 2022 to productize and deliver test articles to the U.S. Military. ZFL relies upon engineers, technicians, and operators who are able and willing to make this next phase of the program a success. ZFL employees must have a good combination of skill, industry knowledge, curiosity, and drive to solve problems effectively and quickly.

Summary of Position:

The Project Manager supports  all phases of contracting, proposals, and project execution. They also partner closely with engineering on design and development work. This role independently manages projects or major project components, guiding ZFL teams toward contractual and self-determined deliverables by tracking budgets, resources, timelines, and deliverables. The Project Manager contributes to operational excellence and collaborates closely with engineering, operations, and subcontractors to ensure project success. This position requires adaptability under pressure, proactive problem-solving, and a commitment to continuous improvement. This role applies strategic thinking at the project level and leverages tools such as process automation, data-driven decision-making, and risk awareness to improve project outcomes.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities : 

Reporting to the Director of Programs, the Project Manager shall:

• Track Project Finances:  Track and report on budgets for assigned projects. Support compliance with budget allocations and flag potential cost overruns to leadership. Coordinate with the Engineering Director and Director of Programs on purchase requests and budget reviews.
• Manage Projects:  Lead day-to-day planning and execution for assigned projects. Provide regular status updates, track deliverables, and help coordinate actions with the Technical Program Manager and project team. Ensure projects stay on schedule and within scope.
• Manage Information:  Maintain accurate project documentation, schedules, and status tools (budget, actions, deliverables, risks). Support tool development in coordination with engineering, operations, and supply chain.
• Monitor Project Performance:  Track progress against objectives and milestones, escalating issues and recommending adjustments to support project success.
• Support Proposals:  Assist with proposal development, including data gathering, planning, budgeting, and close-out activities. Contribute to lessons learned and best practices.
• Communicate Effectively:  Foster clear communication across internal teams, subcontractors, and stakeholders to maintain alignment on project goals.
• Contribute to Process Improvement:  Recommend and adopt improvements to increase efficiency, consistency, and quality in project execution.
• Ensure Compliance and Safety:  Follow industry standards, regulations, and safety guidelines in all activities.

Job Qualifications:  

The Project Manager shall have:

• Experience:  4–8 years of project management or related experience (engineering, operations, or manufacturing).
• Education:   BA/BS degree or equivalent experience.
• Technical Skills: Strong understanding of project execution, scheduling, and financial tracking; familiarity with UAV technology and engineering; and experience building and maintaining integrated project schedules and reports (MS Project or similar).
• Problem-Solving: Solid analytical and problem-solving skills with a commitment to operational excellence and continuous improvement.
• Communication: Clear and effective written, verbal, and presentation skills.
• Interpersonal Skills: Ability to collaborate effectively across teams and maintain positive relationships with customers, suppliers, and coworkers.
• Initiative: Proactive in identifying and resolving issues to ensure successful project completion.
• Adaptability: Comfortable working in evolving environments and adjusting approaches to address challenges.
• Attention to Detail: Ability to deliver accurate, high-quality results while meeting deadlines.
• Software Proficiency: Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite and project management tools.
• Documentation: Contribute to maintaining accurate project documents, procedures, and risk management plans.
• Physical Demands: Includes standing, walking, lifting, carrying, sitting, keyboarding, and occasional travel.
• Other duties as assigned.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Advanced degree in engineering, finance, or business management.
• Extensive background in the aerospace and defense industry and/or with Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS).
• Ability to obtain DOD Secret clearance. 

This position may require access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). To conform to the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicant must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., or protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).

Zepher Flight Labs is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified candidates will be considered for employment regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, (including pregnancy and gender identity), sexual orientation, political affiliation, national origin, marital status, medical condition, disability, genetic information, parental status, military or Veteran status.

Come Join Our Team:

Compensation & Benefits:
We're proud to offer a competitive total rewards package that includes medical, dental, and vision coverage, 401(k) retirement plan, Employee Stock Ownership Program (ESOP), long-term and short-term disability, and life insurance. Pay is based on experience. This position is located in Bingen, WA , and does not include relocation assistance.

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