Senior Technical Project Manager

ARA•Indian Head, MD

5d•$135,000 - $150,000•Onsite

About The Position

Applied Research Associates, Inc. is hiring a Senior Technical Project Manager to support programs involving modernization of explosives and energetic materials production facilities, munitions production, and novel production system design. The role collaborates with project and program managers, explosives and munitions subject matter experts, and federal stakeholders to support research and development capabilities and ongoing production operations. Candidates should be eager to learn, maintain a safety-first mindset, and work effectively with diverse teams, clients, and stakeholders. The position is located at the Naval Surface Warfare Center Indian Head and is entirely onsite; remote and hybrid schedules are not available. The work takes place in a high-activity open-plan collaborative workspace with active operational equipment, fluorescent lighting, and ambient machinery noise. Visual line-of-sight monitoring, immediate verbal communication, and regular in-person interaction with onsite team members are essential. Employment is contingent on obtaining at least an Interim Secret clearance through the sponsoring agency. Candidates must be US citizens residing in the United States. The anticipated salary range is $135,000–$150,000.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in engineering or another related discipline and 8–10 years of experience, or a master's degree and 6–8 years of experience.
At least 2 years of experience in a supervisory capacity.
Proven experience managing Department of War (DoW) or Department of Energy (DoE) projects involving facility improvements that include capital expenditure and manufacturing process implementation.
Expertise in resource and risk management, with the ability to maximize ROI for large-scale projects.
Demonstrated experience managing complex projects and coordinating diverse stakeholders, including government agencies, contractors, and vendors.
Ability to work effectively in high-pressure, dynamic environments and manage rapid changes in project scope, funding, and priorities.
Strong written and oral communication skills, including the ability to tailor presentations and reports to technical and non-technical audiences.
Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office suite.
US citizenship and ability to obtain or maintain a security clearance.

Nice To Haves

Degree in engineering or a related technical field.
Experience working with federal agencies, including DoW and DOE.
Experience managing production modernization projects or programs, particularly the design and implementation of new manufacturing capabilities.
Active Department of War (DoW) security clearance.
PMP certification or equivalent project management training.

Responsibilities

Oversee project execution, including detailed planning, scheduling, and procurement aligned with customer specifications.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams and program management counterparts to develop plans for technical deliverables and schedules.
Develop and implement strategies to meet project objectives while managing scope, schedule, and budget.
Monitor project performance and apply change management principles to address scope issues, risks, and resource constraints with Project Controls Analysts.
Prepare detailed reports for senior leadership on project progress, challenges, and solutions.
Engage with subcontractors, federal agencies, corporate partners, and local officials to drive project success.
Lead safe and cost-effective execution of manufacturing capabilities in complex production environments in collaboration with federal defense clients.
Develop, plan, and execute goals aligned with client objectives and ensure timely, quality deliverables.
Lead regular client-facing meetings to update progress and facilitate technical discussion.
Implement and monitor safety and quality programs, ensuring project staff follow contractual terms, scope of work, regulatory requirements, and client-specific quality and safety standards.