Job Details

New ideas are all around us, but only a few will change the world. That’s our focus at JPL. We ask the biggest questions, then search the universe for answers—literally. We build upon ideas that have guided generations, then share our discoveries to inspire generations to come. Your mission—your opportunity—is to seek out the answers that bring us one step closer. If you’re driven to discover, create, and inspire something that lasts a lifetime and beyond, you’re ready for JPL.

Located in Pasadena, California, JPL has a campus-like environment situated on 177 acres in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains and offers a work environment unlike any other: we inspire passion, foster innovation, build collaboration, and reward excellence.

The Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) is seeking a Project Business Manager to serve as the primary financial and operational partner for a high-priority portfolio of technology tasks. In this role, you are more than a budget manager, you are a critical advisor to the Project Manager and executive leadership. You will provide the financial intelligence and strategic foresight necessary to navigate the complexities of cutting-edge technology development and ensure the success of missions that expand the boundaries of human knowledge.

Responsibilities:

• Strategic Decision Support: You will translate complex financial data into actionable intelligence, developing “what-if” scenarios and resource models that allow leadership to make informed decisions.
• Financial Stewardship: You will lead all cost and schedule accountability, including budget formulation and Earned Value Management (EVM). You won't just report variances; you will identify the "why" and partner with technical leads to implement corrective actions.
• Executive Interface: You will serve as the primary business liaison between the project, the customer, and executive management, ensuring transparency, trust, and alignment on project health and risk.
• Contractual Guidance: You will oversee the execution of complex task orders, ensuring that business activities align with contractual requirements and institutional standards.
• Mentorship & Leadership: You will lead and inspire a diverse team of business professionals, fostering a culture of excellence and professional growth.

Required Qualifications:

• Active Security Clearance: Must possess a current TS/SCI security clearance.
• BS in Business Administration (or similar) with a minimum of 12 years of experience; or a Master's in Business Administration (or similar) with a minimum of 10 years of experience; or a PhD in Business Administration (or similar) with a minimum of 8 years of experience.
• Proven Leadership: Extensive experience leading multifunctional organizations and directing staff to achieve measurable results.
• Project Lifecycle Mastery: Deep experience in the full lifecycle of complex technical projects (specifically the formulation and implementation phases), preferably within the aerospace or defense sectors.
• Expert-level proficiency in Earned Value Management (EVM), cost estimation, pricing, and project controls.
• A demonstrated ability to influence sponsors and to partner effectively with executive leadership under high-pressure conditions.

Preferred Qualifications

• Direct experience in Flight Project Business Management.
• Knowledge of NASA or federal government project management procedural requirements.
• Proven track record of managing complex subcontracts and multidisciplinary project planning.

Why Join JPL?

At JPL, you will apply your business expertise to some of the most challenging and rewarding projects on Earth (and beyond). We offer the opportunity to work at the forefront of discovery in an environment that values precision, innovation, and leadership.

JPL has a catalog of benefits and perks that span from the traditional to the unique. This includes a variety of health, dental, vision, wellbeing, and retirement plans, paid time off, learning, rideshare, childcare, flexible schedule, parental leave and many more. Our focus is on work-life balance, and living healthy, fulfilling lives as we Dare Mighty Things Together. For benefits eligible positions, benefits are effective the first day of the month coincident with or immediately following the employee’s start date.

For further benefits information click Benefits and Perks

The hiring range displayed below is specifically for those who will work in or reside in the location listed. In extending an offer, Jet Propulsion Laboratory considers factors including, but not limited to, the candidate’s job related skills, experience, knowledge, and relevant education/training.

The typical full time equivalent annual hiring range for this job in Pasadena, California.

JPL is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, national origin, citizenship, ancestry, age, marital status, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy or perceived pregnancy, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, protected military or veteran status or any other characteristic or condition protected by Federal, state or local law.

In addition, JPL is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor.

EEO is the Law.

EEO is the Law Supplement

Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination Provision

The Jet Propulsion Laboratory is a federal facility. Due to rules imposed by NASA, JPL will not accept applications from citizens of designated countries or those born in a designated country unless they are U.S. Citizens, Legal Permanent Residents of the U.S or have other protected status under 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3). The Designated Countries List is available here.