Program Manager – AI Governance and Operations

iCatalyst•McLean, VA

4h•Onsite

About The Position

iCatalyst, Inc. is a next-generation technology company specializing in Artificial Intelligence (AI), Natural Language Processing (NLP), Machine Learning (ML), and Robotic Process Automation (RPA). Since 2007, we’ve partnered with federal and commercial clients to deliver innovative products and services that drive mission success, operational efficiency, and digital transformation. Our solutions are built on a foundation of agility, security, and scalability, guided by our CMMI ML 3 DEV framework and backed by globally recognized certifications in ISO 9001:2015 (Quality Management) and ISO/IEC 27001:2022 (Information Security). We specialize in AI-Driven Digital Transformation, Cloud and Infrastructure Modernization, Data Engineering and Advanced Analytics, Enterprise IT Modernization and Mission-Focused Program and Change Management. We have an exciting opportunity for a Program Manager- AI Governance and Operations to join our team to support our federal program. We offer a comprehensive benefits package to include medical, dental, short-term disability insurance, life insurance, free Uber rides and phone reimbursement. Other benefits include 401K, paid government holidays, and personal leave. The Program Manager – AI Governance and Operations serve as a senior leader responsible for overseeing complex IT programs, technology governance, and emerging AI initiatives. This role combines strategic program management expertise with responsible AI and technology governance leadership, ensuring that projects are executed efficiently, ethically, and in full compliance with federal and organizational standards.

Requirements

Strong knowledge of AI/ML technologies, including risk mitigation, ethical considerations, and operational oversight.
Expertise in data governance, privacy, and cybersecurity within federal or enterprise environments.
Ability to assess AI systems for fairness, bias, transparency, and compliance, translating legal and regulatory requirements (FISMA, Privacy Act, civil rights) into operational controls.
Experience with federal IT and AI policy and program management frameworks.
Skilled in project and program management, including Agile, iterative, and waterfall methodologies, with the ability to prioritize, plan, and manage multiple initiatives concurrently.
Proficiency in using dashboards, reporting tools, and cloud AI platforms (Azure OpenAI, AWS AI/ML) to track projects, performance metrics, and governance activities.
Strong analytical skills to define project objectives, strategic direction, and risk management approaches.
Excellent oral and written communication skills, including policy briefs, risk assessments, and executive-level updates.
Proficient in Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, Power BI, and other collaboration/governance tools.
Ability to identify opportunities for AI adoption while mitigating ethical, operational, and compliance risks.
Demonstrated independence, flexibility, attention to detail, and ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders across technical, programmatic, and executive levels.
20+ years of relevant program management experience.
Lead or manage federal IT projects and multiple concurrent initiatives.
Apply Agile or iterative project management to define requirements and guide execution.
Oversee AI governance, ethics, policy, and risk management, using frameworks like NIST AI RMF.
Coordinate cross-functional teams across IT, cybersecurity, privacy, legal, and program offices.
Develop and implement governance policies, compliance documents, and AI strategies.
Deliver training and guidance on responsible AI practices and workforce development.
Support enterprise technology adoption, mitigating operational, ethical, and compliance risks.
Familiarity with enterprise security, data science, information systems, law, or public policy in federal contexts.
Position requires BS/BA degree in a STEM discipline with over 20 years of experience.
Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is required.
Must live in the Washington DC Metropolitan area to be considered. Non-local candidates will not be accepted.
Clearance Requirement: Public Trust Clearance - Due to federal clearance requirements for this position, only U.S. citizens are eligible. Candidates with visa sponsorship or Permanent Residency— now or in the future— are not eligible for this clearance.

Responsibilities

Lead a team to implement AI solutions, manage platforms and ensure governance across all operations.
Lead program planning, scheduling, and coordination, aligning technical execution with strategic objectives and stakeholder priorities.
Provide strategic program management and governance oversight for enterprise IT initiatives, ensuring alignment with organizational goals, budgets, and timelines.
Serve as a trusted liaison between government clients, contractors, and internal teams to ensure transparency, accountability, and effective communication across all projects.
Support acquisition management, governance reviews, and EPMR (Enterprise Program Management Review) processes, ensuring documentation and milestones comply with departmental standards.
Develop and implement standardized processes, workflows, and training to improve consistency and maturity across technology governance activities.
Define, analyze, and manage program scope, requirements, and risks, ensuring delivery excellence across multiple concurrent initiatives.
Provide design and configuration oversight for IT systems and platforms, supporting documentation, testing, and system security efforts.
Conduct business case analyses, cost-benefit assessments, and develop recommendations for program improvements and cost reduction.
Facilitate management reviews and contribute to the evaluation of acquisition and program documentation.
Establish and support the AI Governance Board to guide ethical and responsible AI adoption across the organization.
Develop, interpret, and maintain AI governance policies, procedures, and risk management protocols that complement broader IT governance.
Partner with cybersecurity, privacy, civil rights, legal, and program offices to ensure responsible AI implementation.
Conduct AI risk assessments to evaluate fairness, bias, transparency, and explainability.
Monitor AI system performance and ensure compliance with data privacy laws and ethical standards.
Track and coordinate AI-related initiatives, pilots, and deployments (e.g., RAG Chatbots, Azure OpenAI).
Maintain AI dashboards, metrics, and reporting tools to measure adoption and governance effectiveness.
Support training and awareness programs focused on responsible AI and technology governance practices.
Collaborate on ICAM integration, privileged access management, and AI Foundry Hub setup to support secure AI operations.