Configuration Management Lead

Aerospace, Defense & Space Programs
$105,000 - $135,000
On-site, San Diego
About The Role
My client is an innovative defense, national security, and space technology organization dedicated to delivering mission-critical solutions that protect lives, secure critical assets, and advance capabilities from ground to space.

They are seeking a Configuration Management Lead / Senior Specialist to play a critical role in ensuring the integrity, compliance, and traceability of hardware, software, and documentation across complex programs.

This position goes beyond traditional clerical configuration management. You will drive process improvements, ensure regulatory and contractual compliance, and serve as a subject matter expert (SME) for configuration management best practices, tools, and standards.

You will collaborate closely with engineering, quality, supply chain, manufacturing, and program management to ensure product baselines are clearly defined, controlled, and auditable throughout the full program lifecycle.

Key Responsibilities

• Own and lead configuration management activities across multiple aerospace and defense programs, ensuring compliance with AS9100, MIL-STD requirements, NASA Mission Assurance Practices (MAPs), and customer contractual obligations
• Serve as the Configuration Management subject matter expert (SME), mentoring team members and advising leadership on CM strategy, risks, and compliance gaps
• Develop and maintain configuration control plans and CM documentation tailored to specific program needs
• Direct and perform configuration identification, change control, release, and audit activities to ensure data integrity and full product traceability
• Create, review, and approve EIDPs, data deliverables, and contract-required documentation
• Partner with engineering and manufacturing teams to validate PCBA documentation, serialized part control, inspection records, and product data accuracy
• Manage and maintain Bills of Material (BOMs), drawings, revision histories, and part number schemas within PLM/ERP systems
• Drive adoption of modern CM practices and tools, including PLM/ERP integration, digital thread initiatives, and process automation
• Interface with suppliers and customers to ensure proper flow-down of contractual, quality, and mission assurance requirements
• Support program reviews, customer audits, and government inspections as the CM representative
• Lead or support cross-functional Change Control Boards (CCBs) and Engineering Review Boards (ERBs)

Required Qualifications

• 7+ years of experience in aerospace, defense, or space manufacturing environments with progressively increasing configuration management responsibility
• Strong working knowledge of configuration management principles and standards (CMII certification preferred)
• Proven experience creating EIDPs, preparing for audits, and conducting configuration audits
• Hands-on experience with PLM/ERP systems such as Windchill, SAP, ComplianceQuest, or equivalent tools
• Deep understanding of supplier flow-down requirements, mission assurance practices, and government/DoD contract compliance
• Demonstrated ability to lead process improvements, streamline CM workflows, and implement tool or system upgrades
• Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities and deadlines
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to interface effectively with executives, customers, and auditors

Education & Clearance

• B.A. or B.S. degree in Engineering, Business, or a related technical field (advanced degree preferred)
• Must be able to obtain and maintain a U.S. Security Clearance at the appropriate level (U.S. Citizenship required)

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary Range: $105,000 – $135,000 (dependent on experience and qualifications)
• Comprehensive total rewards package including competitive salary, discretionary annual bonus, paid time off (PTO), health benefits, retirement savings, wellness programs, and additional benefits