Army Operations SME

i4DM•Millersville, MD

About The Position

Are you ready to bring your Airborne experience to the forefront of modernization and shape how the Army fights and operates? We are seeking a seasoned Army Subject Matter Expert (SME) experienced in Airborne Operations to serve as a critical link between operational forces and technical teams. In this role, you will apply your real-world operational experience to inform the design, development, and delivery of modern software that supports mission planning, execution, and decision-making. You will work closely with Army stakeholders and cross-functional teams in an Agile environment, translating operational needs into actionable requirements and ensuring that solutions align with doctrinal and mission realities. You will serve as the connective tissue between Soldiers, mission owners, and developers, translating doctrine, regulations, and mission tasks into actionable requirements that drive modern, scalable, user centered software solutions. This role requires someone who can operate at both tactical and strategic levels, bridging the gap between operators and engineers while driving meaningful, mission-focused outcomes.

Requirements

Prior service as a Senior Staff Noncommissioned Officer (E7–E9) or a Commissioned Officer (O3 or above) in the U.S. Army.
Graduate of the U.S. Army’s Basic Airborne Course.
At least 3- years operational experience in airborne units such as the 82nd Airborne Division, 11th Airborne Division, 75th Ranger Regiment, 173rd Airborne Brigade, or similar. 11th Airborne Division
Demonstrated experience with Army Design Methodology, operational planning, Military Decision-Making Process, and joint/combined operations.
Ability to interpret Army regulations, doctrine, and mission requirements for use in technical or modernization efforts.
Strong communication skills with the ability to translate complex military concepts into clear technical requirements.
Comfortable working in a fast-paced, agile, and collaborative development environment.
Ability to travel to client sites in austere conditions.

Nice To Haves

Experience supporting IT modernization, digital transformation, or software development programs.
Participation in large-scale exercises, contingency operations, or deployments involving airborne operations. Preferred qualifications include conducting airborne assaults at the Joint Readiness Training Center (JRTC) or any other national training center.
Service as an airborne qualified Observer, Controller, Trainer (OCT) at JRCT, the Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center (JMPRC), or the Joint Multinational Readiness Center (JMRC).
Jumpmaster, Pathfinder, Rigger, Air Assault, and/or Sling Load Inspector qualified.
Familiarity with agile methodologies, user story development, or requirements engineering.
Experience with cloud technologies, data systems, or Army enterprise IT environments.
Background in doctrine development, training design, or capability integration.
Bachelor’s degree.

Responsibilities

Provide expert insight into airborne unit operations, including planning, accountability, execution, sustainment, and integration with joint and combined forces. This includes garrison, airborne/air assault, and general field operations.
Work with Army stakeholders to identify mission needs, operational pain points, and modernization opportunities.
Translate Army operational requirements, regulations, and doctrinal guidance into clear, technically actionable specifications for software development teams.
Collaborate with engineers and product teams to ensure system features support airborne operations mission planning, execution, and decision-making workflows.
Participate in agile development processes, contributing to user stories, acceptance criteria, backlog refinement, and sprint reviews.
Validate system designs, prototypes, and workflows to ensure alignment with Army standards and operational realities.
Support the development of modernized digital tools, including cloud-based applications, data-driven capabilities, and integrated mission systems.
Conduct operational assessments, capability gap analyses, and user feedback sessions to guide iterative improvement.
Ensure all solutions comply with Army cybersecurity, interoperability, and regulatory requirements.
Prepare and deliver briefings, technical documentation, and operational context materials for both military and technical audiences.
Build strong relationships with Army customers, serving as the primary liaison between stakeholders and the development team. Prepare and deliver briefings for senior military leaders, ensuring clear communication and strategic alignment.
Maintain awareness of emerging technologies, modernization initiatives, and best practices relevant to airborne and expeditionary operations.