DARPA – Special Projects Office (SPO) Chief Action Officer

Amentum•Arlington, VA

6d•$150,000 - $225,000•Onsite

About The Position

Amentum is seeking an experienced professional to support Special Projects Office (SPO) programs as a Chief Action Officer. This role will provide on-site strategic, programmatic, and technical support. The successful candidate will act as the program action officer and strategic advisor, working as the organizational and operational hub for a high-performing, multi-functional team. This role is essential for driving the formulation, acquisition, execution, and transition of a portfolio of advanced programs, ensuring objectives and milestones are met. As a primary liaison, this individual will streamline operations and maintain clear, concise communication across all team members, performers, government partners, and external stakeholders. The candidate should be conversant in topics related to space programs. This is a full-time, on-site position in Arlington, VA (Ballston area).

Requirements

BS in Engineering or relevant technical field
At least 10 years of relevant experience (program or project management specializing in space and autonomy programs)
Active Top Secret security clearance, with SCI eligibility. US citizenship is required to maintain a security clearance
Excellent technical writing skills, including the ability to perform proof reading and quality control on technical documents and slides
Excellent communication skills - both written (to include PowerPoint) and oral; must be able to concisely summarize and efficiently communicate the essential elements of a concept quantitatively and comprehensively
Proactive and resourceful problem-solver with a demonstrated ability to anticipate needs, identify potential roadblocks, and take initiative without direct supervision
Exceptional organizational skills and a proven track record of project management experience within a fast-paced technical environment
Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to operate as a central hub for a dynamic team
Demonstrated professionalism, maturity, sound judgement, and excellent communication and interpersonal skills necessary for daily interactions with executive-level audiences in a dynamic, high-visibility Front Office environment
Experience leading and coordinating technology transition activities with service partners and other key stakeholders
Ability to work on-site at full-time at DARPA in Arlington, VA

Nice To Haves

Prior DoW, DARPA, or other government R&D organization experience
MS degree or higher
Prior experience in an R&D environment

Responsibilities

Coordinate, prepare for, and document key leadership and stakeholder meetings, including the development of agendas, briefing materials, and tracking of all follow-up actions
Serve as the primary strategic liaison between the program team, senior leaders, and external stakeholders, ensuring consistent and clear communication regarding program strategy, updates, proposals, and planning
Develop, maintain, and manage a comprehensive task tracking system to monitor progress on all action items and long-term objectives
Provide strategic guidance on program formulation, acquisition strategies, execution, and the transition of mature programs to service partners
Prepare, draft, and refine briefing documents, talking points, and other materials for both internal and external audiences, ensuring accuracy and clarity
Lead and provide support for special projects and strategic initiatives as assigned by Program Director