Program Manager

Joint Research and Development, LLC • Arlington, VA

2d

About The Position

The Program Manager (PM) is responsible for planning, directing, and managing complex projects and programs of comparable size, scope, and technical rigor to those executed in support of Department of the Air Force (DAF) and Department of Defense (DoD) missions. The PM serves as the single point of accountability for program execution, ensuring all contractual, technical, financial, and personnel requirements are met with precision, transparency, and timeliness. This role requires extensive experience engaging with senior DAF/DoD leadership, maintaining clear communication channels, and ensuring alignment between government objectives, contractor activities, and mission outcomes.

The PM will oversee all aspects of program performance, including project planning, risk management, resource allocation, subcontractor oversight, and delivery of high‑quality products and services. The PM ensures disciplined program management practices, fosters a culture of accountability, and provides continuous, verifiable insight into cost, schedule, and performance.

Requirements

• Demonstrated experience planning, directing, and managing complex projects of similar size and scope.
• Proven experience working with and supporting DAF and/or DoD leadership at senior levels.
• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field; advanced degree preferred.
• Minimum of 10 years of program or project management experience in defense, national security, or government contracting environments.
• Strong understanding of federal acquisition processes, contract management, and performance oversight.
• Experience managing multidisciplinary teams, including geographically dispersed personnel.
• Exceptional communication, stakeholder engagement, and leadership skills
• Demonstrated ability to manage budgets, schedules, and performance metrics in dynamic operational environments.
• Active Secret clearance required.

Nice To Haves

• PMP or equivalent program management certification strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead the planning, execution, and management of complex programs supporting DAF/DoD missions.
• Serve as the primary interface with government leadership, stakeholders, and technical teams.
• Develop, maintain, and execute a comprehensive Project Management Plan (PMP).
• Oversee cost, schedule, and performance baselines; provide proactive risk identification and mitigation.
• Ensure compliance with all contractual requirements, deliverables, and reporting obligations.
• Manage a geographically dispersed workforce, including recruitment, onboarding, performance management, and professional development.
• Coordinate with subcontractors and partner organizations to ensure seamless integration of support activities.
• Provide timely, accurate program status updates, including financial reporting, staffing updates, and performance metrics.
• Maintain strong working relationships with DAF/DoD leadership to ensure alignment with evolving mission needs.
• Drive continuous improvement, operational efficiency, and highquality service delivery across all program elements.

Benefits

• Health Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Life & Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance
• Section 125 Flexible Spending Accounts for unreimbursed medical & dependent day care
• Disability Insurance
• 401K Plan
• Tuition Reimbursement

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager
• Number of Employees: 11-50 employees