Autonomy Programs Lead for Warfighter Impact

Riverside Research; Arlington (VA); On-site; USD 150,000 - 225,000; Full time

Job summary

Riverside Research seeks an Autonomy Program Manager to lead DoD/autonomy initiatives, aligned with the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) goals. The role allows Arlington, VA or Mountain View, CA placement and demands a strong background in program management, autonomous systems, and cross‑functional leadership.

You will drive from problem definition through design, testing, and warfighter transition, ensuring schedule and budget adherence.

Qualifications

• Minimum 12 years of related experience with a bachelor’s degree, 8 years with a master's, or a PhD with 5 years' experience.
• Experience in program management, DoD acquisition, tech transition, or rapid prototyping.
• Current TS/SCI clearance required.

Responsibilities

• Champion the needs of the warfighter throughout program development and execution.
• Drive program lifecycle from problem definition to solution transition to the warfighter.
• Develop strategies, operating plans, and budgets; manage cross‑functional teams.
• Engage with DoD customers and industry to align capability gaps with commercial solutions.
• Establish KPIs, monitor program health, and report outcomes to senior leadership.

Skills

Program management

Autonomous systems

SOWs & schedules

Stakeholder coordination

TS/SCI clearance

Education

Bachelor's degree or higher

Master's degree

PhD

Job description

Riverside Research seeks an Autonomy Program Manager to lead DoD/autonomy initiatives, aligned with the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) goals. The role allows Arlington, VA or Mountain View, CA placement and demands a strong background in program management, autonomous systems, and cross‑functional leadership.

You will drive from problem definition through design, testing, and warfighter transition, ensuring schedule and budget adherence.