Principal Program Manager

STR•Arlington, VA

33d

About The Position

The Algorithms, Processing and Experimentation (APEX) Group within the Sensors Division at STR specializes in the development of RF/radar modes, skills, and applications, with an emphasis on advanced signal processing chains and algorithm research. This group matures technologies for implementation and integration into RF-based systems, often tailored for specific Defense and Intelligence Community needs. The APEX Group is seeking an experienced Program Manager with a background in RF sensing systems, system integration, advanced engineering, and operational employment. This role requires the ability to manage a portfolio of programs in an emerging acquisition environment focused on speed, impact, and agility. The position involves leading geographically dispersed, multi-disciplinary teams, briefing customers, engaging with senior leadership, fostering collaborative work environments, and proficiency in program management and system integration.

Requirements

Active Security Clearance at the Secret level, and eligible to support special access programs, for which U.S citizenship is needed by U.S government
BS, MS, or PhD degree in engineering, science, technical management, or a related field, with minimum of 5-10 years of relevant experience, depending on degree
Program Manager or Control Account Manager experience in a design and development and/or build contract including Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) definition, schedule generation, financial analysis/reporting, and resource management
Experience in Proposal Management including planning and cost estimation
Excellent interpersonal and communications skills
Successful experience in mentoring, leading, and managing multidisciplinary teams
Strong presentation and organizational skills

Nice To Haves

Current TS/SSBI with SCI and ability to gain and hold SCI/SAP accreditations
Experience with advanced RF system concepts, signal processing, open architectures, and systems integration
Experience managing projects larger than $5M for the Department of Defense
Experience in non-traditional defense acquisition efforts, such as small-business and rapid acquisition
Work Experience in government, FFRDC, or defense industry companies and sponsors
Experience in Software Development
Experience in protection of Intellectual Property, especially for software products
Financial and business operations experience
Risk and Opportunity Management experience
Experience managing Research and Development programs
Proficiency in all Microsoft Office applications including but not limited to MS Project, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint

Responsibilities

Build and maintain a portfolio of programs focused on mode development and integration with RF sensing systems
Effectively manage multiple programs, balancing cost, schedule and technical program requirements and tracking associated metrics
Oversee and lead proposal writing and capture efforts, ensuring high-quality submissions by fostering team building across business competencies and disciplined adherence to proposal processes.
Develop strategies to bring mode work to new customers in government and industry while protecting intellectual property.
Create statements of work for subcontractors and oversee their ongoing efforts to ensure proper execution
Provide regular program briefs to Group and Division Leadership
Create and maintain an environment that fosters collaboration by giving clear direction and constructive feedback to the team
Monitor progress against goals: anticipate risks, resolve issues, and initiate corrective actions as appropriate
Provide operational expertise and guidance to program teams to achieve challenging technical objectives