Deputy Program Manager - Operational Lead (WIC)

The Deputy Program Manager (DPM) - Operational Lead, within the Warfighter Integration Cell (WIC), will serve as the senior operational advisor and deputy lead for critical space systems integration efforts. This role requires expertise in program management, operational oversight, and mission assurance to ensure successful delivery of capabilities that meet Warfighter and national security objectives.

The DPM Operational Lead will directly assist the Program Manager in coordinating multidisciplinary teams, leading operational efforts, and ensuring all program goals align with client mission requirements. Acting as a key government-facing representative, the candidate will oversee program execution, monitor performance metrics, and support operational integration across DoD and Intelligence Community (IC) space systems.

Contract Overview:

Golden Dome is a national-level, whole-of-nation initiative in which you will play a critical role in advancing next-generation homeland defense capabilities. If you are seeking a fast-paced position focused on developing innovative software for the Space-Based Interceptor mission, this opportunity is designed for you.

Responsibilities:

• Assist the Program Manager in overseeing the execution of complex DoD and IC space system programs within the Warfighter Integration Cell (WIC).
• Lead operational integration efforts to ensure alignment between system capabilities and mission requirements for Warfighter operations.
• Provide program oversight for development, testing, delivery, and sustainment of assigned space systems and capabilities.
• Ensure that program deliverables meet schedule, cost, performance, and quality criteria.
• Act as the primary operational liaison with government customers, subcontractors, and program teams, ensuring seamless information flow and stakeholder collaboration.
• Oversee risk management efforts, identify challenges, and proactively implement mitigation strategies to preserve program objectives.
• Collaborate with technical teams to ensure systems engineering, architecture, and design efforts align with operational readiness requirements.
• Support the Program Manager in preparing key documentation, briefings, and reports to communicate program status and operational impacts.
• Lead efforts to incorporate emerging technologies and innovative solutions into operational architectures and mission plans.
• Drive operational excellence by aligning project objectives with Warfighter needs and ensuring systems readiness for deployed operations.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Program Management, Engineering, Business Administration, Operations Management, or other relevant disciplines (Master's degree preferred).
• Minimum of 15 years of experience in program management, operational leadership, and/or systems engineering within the space systems domain, preferably supporting DoD and IC missions.
• Extensive experience in managing programs that involve complex system integration in contested and dynamic operational environments.
• Proven track record of interfacing with senior government leaders and stakeholders.

Clearance:

• Active Top Secret clearance with Sensitive Compartmented Information (TS/SCI).

Technical Knowledge:

• Deep knowledge of space system architectures, mission requirements, and operational readiness.
• Experience in performance management, progress tracking, and successful delivery of mission-critical capabilities.
• Familiarity with acquisition lifecycles, risk management processes, and Earned Value Management (EVM).

Desired Qualifications:

• Certification in program management (e.g., PMP, DAWIA Level III PM certification, or equivalent).
• Master's degree in a STEM or management discipline.
• Working knowledge of space situational awareness capabilities, Warfighter requirements, or satellite operations.
• Experience leading cross-functional teams in the design, testing, and delivery of space systems.
• Familiarity with technologies such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity frameworks, or autonomous systems as applied to space operations.

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