Technical Operations / Mission Integration Lead

Nightwing•Dulles, VA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Nightwing is seeking a Technical Operations & Mission Integration Lead to operationalize the Guardian platform in support of sensitive national security missions. This role is purpose-built for a senior Technical Operations Officer–type leader who can bridge mission execution, technical capability, and program delivery. You will ensure Guardian systems are not only deployed, but effectively integrated, operationally relevant, and sustainable in real-world environments. You will operate at the intersection of: Field operations, Engineering, software, and hardware integration, Mission-focused program execution. This position will include a variety of activities, including: Mission Integration & Operational Enablement, Forward Deployed Operations, Technical Systems Integration (Expanded Scope), Software & Hardware Development Support, Program Management & Execution Support, Training Development & Mission Transition, and Stakeholder Engagement.

Requirements

15–20+ years experience in: Technical operations, intelligence operations, or mission systems integration
Direct experience in: Denied / hostile / low-visibility environments, Global operational deployments
Working knowledge of: RF communications (LOS, UHF/VHF/HF), IP networking and system integration
Hands-on experience with: Cable fabrication (Ethernet, coaxial, power), Field system installation and troubleshooting, Hardware systems assembly and software configuration
Experience supporting: Hardware and/or software development teams
Program execution experience including: Scheduling, CDRLs, and financial tracking

Nice To Haves

Background as: Technical Operations Officer / CI / HUMINT / CNO support
Experience with: TAK ecosystem, Silvus or similar MANET radios, ISR / sensor integration, COT and other data transmission formats
Prior military leadership (E7+ or equivalent)
Experience supporting FMS or coalition operations
High academic achievement (3.5+ GPA preferred)

Responsibilities

Translate operational requirements into deployable Guardian configurations and CONOPS
Ensure system alignment with denied, low-visibility, and contested environments
Serve as the bridge between operators, engineers, and program leadership
Assisting in maintaining program documentation, schedules, and reporting artifacts
Leveraging tools such as Excel, PowerPoint, specialized RF performance models, and project tracking systems (e.g., Jira, MS Project)
Supporting continuous improvement of program execution processes and workflows
Lead and support global deployments across: Fixed sites, mobile platforms, and expeditionary kits
Provide in-field leadership during: Initial installs, Mission execution, Real-time troubleshooting
Ensure systems remain operational, resilient, and mission-effective
Oversee integration and fielding of: TAK ecosystem (ATAK/WinTAK/TAK Server), MANET radios and RF communications systems, Intelligence information fusion, AI tools, SATCOM / LEO backhaul (e.g., Starlink)
Apply working knowledge of: RF engineering principles (line-of-sight, UHF/VHF/HF bands), Network architecture and IP-based communications, COTS and GOTS hardware and software integration
Perform and oversee: Ethernet, coaxial, and power cable fabrication and repair, Field-expedient system modifications and integration
Provide operator-driven input to software development efforts, including: Feature prioritization, Usability in operational environments
Support hardware development teams by: Validating prototypes in real-world conditions, Providing feedback on durability, power, and integration constraints
Contribute basic scripting or configuration-level development (as needed) to support system functionality
Support program execution across: Schedule development and tracking, CDRL deliverables and reporting, Financial oversight (DOW-level awareness, budget alignment, execution tracking)
Assist in managing: Subcontractor and vendor performance, Deployment timelines and resource allocation
Ensure compliance with: Operational, financial, and security requirements
Develop and deliver training programs for: U.S. operators, Foreign partners (FMS environments)
Coordinate training events, materials, and certification approaches
Ensure smooth transition from deployment to sustained operational use
Interface directly with: U.S. Government customers, Foreign military and interagency partners
Build trust and expand adoption of Guardian capabilities
Provide executive-level updates and mission feedback