Project Manager

Project Manager – OPAL | Aviation Division | Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI)

About the Job

Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) is looking for an experienced Project Manager to lead complex development and integration projects for OPAL, an advanced aviation system combining communications, avionics, software and operational capabilities.

This is a highly dynamic role combining technical project management, customer engagement, business development and cross-functional leadership in a defense and aviation environment.

What the Role Includes:

• Lead end-to-end OPAL development and integration projects – from project initiation and development through integration, flight testing, implementation and operational delivery to the customer.
• Own project scope, schedules, budgets, milestones and overall project performance.
• Manage daily customer interfaces, conduct project status reviews, manage changes, align expectations and maintain customer satisfaction.
• Support commercial activities and pre-sales, including proposals, technical-commercial responses to tenders, pricing processes and negotiations.
• Prepare professional marketing materials, presentations and demonstrations for existing and potential customers.
• Lead cross-functional and matrix teams across Systems Engineering, Software, Hardware, Avionics, Operations, Finance, Procurement and Quality.
• Identify and manage project risks, bottlenecks and critical issues while making timely management decisions to ensure project continuity.

Requirements:

• Academic degree in Engineering (Electrical, Computer, Systems) OR significant operational background with a strong technological orientation – mandatory.
• At least 3 years of experience in complex project management, program management or systems engineering within the defense industry – mandatory.
• Proven negotiation skills and experience managing business, commercial and technical negotiations.
• Excellent presentation and communication skills, including presenting project reviews to customers and senior management.
• Proven experience leading the lifecycle of complex technology-driven defense projects combining hardware and software, from requirements definition through integration and delivery.
• Familiarity with defense procurement processes, contract management and working with government and military customers in Israel or abroad.
• Knowledge of tactical networking, data communications and avionics systems – a significant advantage.
• Excellent interpersonal and leadership skills, with the ability to drive cross-functional teams without direct authority.
• High level of English – reading, writing and conducting technical, business and marketing discussions – mandatory.
• Willingness to travel abroad – mandatory.

About the Division:

IAI's Aviation Division is a global leader in the aerospace industry, involved across the entire aviation lifecycle – from planning, development and engineering to manufacturing, testing and certification.

The division provides comprehensive aviation services, including heavy maintenance, modifications and upgrades of civil and military aircraft, engines and components. It also operates one of the world's leading passenger-to-freighter conversion services, backed by more than 45 years of experience.