Program Manager III

Mano Lani • Arlington, VA

1d • $119,000 - $154,000

About The Position

Mano Lani LLC has an opening for a Program Manager III who will provide senior-level program management support to the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) Adaptive Capabilities Office (ACO), overseeing the planning, direction, and coordination of complex research and development (R&D) programs across multiple portfolios. This role is responsible for managing operations across diverse functional areas including program execution, contract oversight, compliance, security coordination, and resource planning. The Program Manager III supports Strategic Explorations and Special Programs that enable high-impact defense technology development aligned with Department of War (DoW) priorities. The position requires leadership across multiple stakeholders, integration of technical and administrative functions, and coordination of subordinate support personnel. Work is performed in a high-tempo environment requiring rapid response to evolving mission needs and sustained oversight of complex, multi-departmental efforts. All work is advisory and support in nature and does not include inherently governmental functions such as final policy-making or decision authority. Occasional non-standard business hours may be required. All new hires will complete an onboarding program in their first week.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Management, Engineering, Public Administration, or related field.
• Minimum 6 years of experience in program management, contract management, or related operations support roles.
• Experience planning, directing, and coordinating operations of complex programs or organizations across multiple functional areas.
• Demonstrated experience in developing, implementing, and executing effective contract management and administration plans.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience providing regulatory compliance oversight and approval of contract-related expenses.
• Experience coordinating personnel, workflows, and operational activities across multi-disciplinary teams.
• At least 3 years of demonstrated supervisory or leadership experience in planning, developing, and executing major defense R&D efforts.
• Requires the applicant to possess and maintain an active security clearance for the position.
• Eligibility requirements include US citizenship.

Nice To Haves

• Prior experience supporting DARPA or other DoD Science and Technology organizations.
• Experience managing complex R&D portfolios involving multiple performers, contracts, and transition partners.
• Familiarity with federal acquisition regulations and DoD contract execution processes.
• Strong background in cross-functional leadership and operational integration.

Responsibilities

• Continuity of operations at the start and close of the contract.
• Plan, direct, and coordinate execution of complex DARPA ACO R&D programs across multiple portfolios, ensuring alignment with mission objectives, cost, schedule, and performance requirements.
• Develop, implement, and manage comprehensive program plans covering operations, contract execution, resource allocation, and organizational workflows.
• Oversee daily program operations across multiple functional areas including acquisition support, contract administration, security coordination, training, and quality assurance.
• Manage and coordinate cross-functional personnel and subordinate support teams to ensure effective execution of program activities and deliverables.
• Integrate financial, technical, and operational program elements to ensure effective execution of R&D initiatives and sustain fiscal and operational integrity.
• Oversee contract lifecycle activities including solicitations, awards, modifications, performance monitoring, and administrative execution.
• Ensure regulatory compliance and approve/validate contract-related expenditures and program funding actions in accordance with applicable federal and DoD guidance.
• Monitor program budgets, funding execution, and resource utilization to ensure alignment with approved plans and financial controls.
• Identify, assess, and resolve program execution issues to maintain continuity of operations and prevent impacts to cost, schedule, or performance.
• Coordinate with DARPA Program Managers, contracting authorities (CMO/OGC), and external stakeholders to ensure integrated program execution and compliance.
• Support development of program documentation, briefings, and executive reporting for senior leadership decision-making.
• Lead planning and execution of major defense R&D efforts, including transition-focused initiatives and emerging capability development.
• Ensure effective implementation of policies, procedures, and management controls supporting program execution and compliance.

Benefits

• Mano Lani LLC is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against applicants based on race, color, creed, religion, medical condition, legally protected genetic information, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth or related medical condition), sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, age, disability, or Vietnam era, or other eligible veteran status or legally protected characteristics.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior