Autonomy Programs Lead for DoD Tech & Warfighter Impact

Riverside Research; Virginia (MN); On-site; USD 150,000 - 225,000; Full time

Job summary

Riverside Research is seeking a Program Manager with strong background in military operations, program management, autonomous systems engineering, or startup environments. This role supports the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) with rapid prototyping and fielding of autonomous solutions for the warfighter.

The role can be located in Arlington, VA or Mountain View, CA, and requires delivering on schedules and budgets while aligning DoD needs with commercial technology. TS/SCI clearance is required.

Qualifications

• Experience in program management (DoD acquisition, rapid prototyping).
• Familiarity with autonomous systems engineering and evaluating vendor claims.
• Experience drafting SOWs, building schedules, issuing task orders.
• Ability to coordinate across multiple stakeholders and keep complex projects on track.
• DoD/USG and commercial experience preferred.
• Current TS/SCI clearance required.

Responsibilities

• Champion the needs of the warfighter throughout program development and execution.
• Drive program lifecycle from problem definition to fielding and transition to the warfighter.
• Make critical decisions to keep programs on schedule and within budget.
• Develop strategies, operating plans and budgets for programs.
• Lead cross‑functional teams across DIU and partner organizations to enable success.
• Serve as an Autonomy SME and mentor others on the team.

Skills

Program management

Autonomous systems engineering

DoD acquisition knowledge

SOW drafting & scheduling

Stakeholder coordination

Education

Bachelor's degree or higher in a technical field

Master's degree

PhD

Job description

Riverside Research is seeking a Program Manager with strong background in military operations, program management, autonomous systems engineering, or startup environments. This role supports the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) with rapid prototyping and fielding of autonomous solutions for the warfighter.

The role can be located in Arlington, VA or Mountain View, CA, and requires delivering on schedules and budgets while aligning DoD needs with commercial technology. TS/SCI clearance is required.