Director of Technical Strategy & Modernization

Overview

i3 Defense Technical Services (DTS) is seeking a Director of Technical Strategy & Modernization to lead a major technology modernization effort for a Department of Defense customer at Redstone Arsenal, Alabama.

This role goes beyond traditional program management. We need a strategic technology leader who can work confidently with SES leaders, General Officers, engineers, architects, developers, cybersecurity teams, and data professionals. The ideal candidate brings executive presence, strong technical depth, and a proven ability to drive digital transformation across complex defense environments.

A n ideal candidate is a transformational leader with a history of modernizing legacy systems, introducing emerging technologies, improving delivery performance, and accelerating mission outcomes. Someone who can walk into any room , from SES executives to software developers , and immediately establish credibility. A visionary who inspires teams and delivers measurable results.

Candidates should be prepared to discuss specific examples where they personally led organizational transformation, technology modernization, AI adoption, cloud migration, DevSecOps implementation, or enterprise-scale digital transformation efforts and the measurable outcomes achieved.

Responsibilities

Lead Technical Strategy & Modernization

• Build and execute modernization roadmaps aligned to mission goals.
• Advise senior government leaders on emerging technologies and digital transformation needs.
• Identify opportunities to enhance mission effectiveness through innovative solutions (AI, Gen AI , DevSecOps , Platform Engineering, Cloud, Data analytics and enterprise data strategies, Software Modernization, Application Transformation , etc )

Drive Program Execution

• Oversee development lifecycles and ensure delivery of complex technical initiatives.
• Set priorities, track metrics, manage risks, and coordinate across multiple workstreams.
• Ensure solutions meet mission, quality, and performance expectations.

Lead and Develop High-Performing Teams

• Build, mentor, and guide multidisciplinary engineering, cyber, and data teams.
• Ensure the right skills, staffing, and culture to support modernization objectives .
• Foster innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement.

Champion Modern Engineering Practices

• Promote best practices in Agile, DevSecOps , cloud, data, and platform engineering.
• Ensure architectures are scalable, secure, and aligned with mission needs.
• Drive adoption of modern tools, automation, and development approaches.

Engage Executives and Grow Strategic Opportunities

• Communicate complex technical topics in clear, mission-focused terms.
• Build trusted relationships across senior government stakeholders.
• Identify new requirements, shape future modernization initiatives, and support business growth.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree and a minimum of 21 years of progressively responsible experience leading complex technical programs and modernization initiatives.
• Master's degree may substitute for 3 years of experience.
• Doctorate may substitute for 6 years of experience.
• Extensive DoD and defense industry experience
• Proven success leading large-scale modernization or digital transformation efforts
• Deep understanding of: AI/GenAI, DevSecOps , cloud, automation, data, cybersecurity, Zero Trust, and digital transformation frameworks
• Strong track record building and leading technical teams
• Experience managing complex programs with multiple stakeholders and vendors
• Excellent communication and executive engagement skills
• Active Secret clearance or higher
• U.S. Citizenship

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience leading enterprise AI adoption
• Experience with AI-enabled software development tools
• Cloud migration and application modernization experience
• Experience developing data strategies and advanced analytics capabilities
• Relevant certifications (PMP, Agile, Cloud, Security, etc.)

Physical Demands

• The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to stand; walk; handle or feel; and reach with hands and arms.
• The employee is occasionally required to sit; climb or balance; and stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl. The employee must be able to lift and/or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.
• Regular i3 hours are 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Monday-Friday, however, additional hours may be required on occasion. Regular and punctual attendance is required.

About i3

i3 is a technically diverse, 100% team member owned business, headquartered in Huntsville, Alabama specializing in missile and aviation systems engineering and logistic services, electronic warfare and electromagnetic effects analysis, UAS system integration and flight operations, full lifecycle C5ISR engineering services, cybersecurity and IT/IA innovative solutions and virtual training, simulation & serious game development and implementation. We have established a broad offering of products and capabilities collectively providing decades of experience supporting the full complement of DoD military services, Missile Defense Agency, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, and a variety of other Government organizations and private industry customers.

Perks of being a team member owner include:

• Long-term financial security
• Higher job satisfaction
• Greater job security
• Personal and professional growth
• Great company culture

Other outstanding benefits:

• Excellent insurance coverage
• 401(k) match
• Generous PTO
• Health and wellness incentives
• Tuition and certification reimbursement
• Countless opportunities to give back to the community through i3 Cares

We work hard. We compete hard. We play hard. Apply now to join us!