Program Manager

Dcode•Washington, DC

2d•$98,000 - $130,000

About The Position

We are seeking a mission-driven, results-oriented Program Manager to lead the execution of high-priority initiatives for a defense sector client. In this role, you will own delivery of workstreams or small engagements, ensuring outputs are high-quality, actionable, and aligned to mission outcomes. You will play a key role in implementing Dcode’s RAIC methodology—helping to establish operating models, streamline acquisition pathways, improve decision-making, and enable scalable innovation. This role requires both strong execution and the ability to independently navigate ambiguity, solve problems, and maintain trusted client relationships. Success in this role means delivering measurable results, resolving issues proactively, maintaining strong client alignment, and contributing to solutions that improve speed, efficiency, and impact across the program.

Requirements

3–6 years of relevant experience (consulting, government, defense, or related fields)
Experience owning workstreams or small projects, with demonstrated accountability for delivery
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to structure and solve ambiguous challenges
Experience producing high-quality, client-ready deliverables (PowerPoint, Excel, written products)
Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills
Ability to manage competing priorities in fast-paced environments
Familiarity with government acquisition, innovation programs, or technology integration
Experience working in agile or iterative delivery environments
Eligibility for clearance is Required

Nice To Haves

Take ownership of delivery and consistently produce high-quality, actionable outputs
Proactively identify and resolve issues before they escalate
Build trust with clients through reliability, responsiveness, and strong communication
Balance structured thinking with practical execution
Thrive in fast-paced, mission-driven environments with evolving priorities
TS-SCI with polygraph is strongly preferred

Responsibilities

Own delivery of defined workstreams or small projects, ensuring outputs are timely, high-quality, and aligned to client needs
Translate client objectives into actionable plans, deliverables, and execution approaches
Lead development of clear, decision-ready deliverables (briefings, frameworks, analyses, reports)
Drive execution in agile, sprint-based environments, ensuring consistent progress and visibility
Support or lead small engagements or contracts, ensuring delivery expectations are met
Identify, troubleshoot, and resolve issues independently with minimal guidance
Anticipate risks and implement mitigation strategies to avoid future occurrences
Apply structured problem-solving approaches to improve processes, workflows, and outcomes
Continuously identify opportunities to improve delivery efficiency and program impact
Build and maintain strong working relationships with client counterparts
Actively listen to customer needs and translate them into actionable solutions
Serve as a reliable day-to-day point of contact for client stakeholders
Facilitate alignment across stakeholders by synthesizing inputs and driving toward decisions
Contribute to the design and refinement of operating models, governance structures, and repeatable processes
Support development and application of decision frameworks (e.g., prioritization, risk assessment, transition readiness)
Define and track performance metrics, including cycle time, throughput, and decision velocity
Support development of ROI and impact models to inform leadership decisions