Autonomy & Robotics Defense Program Lead

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

Job summary

Riverside Research seeks a Program Manager with a strong background in military operations, commercial tech, and technical program management to support the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU). The role turns warfighter problems into executable programs, guiding prototypes from discovery to fielding.

Responsibilities include shaping acquisition strategies, managing vendors, and communicating status to senior stakeholders across services and industry. U.S. citizenship required.

Qualifications

• 12 years of related experience with a bachelor’s degree, 8 years with a master’s degree, or a PhD with 5 years’ experience.

Responsibilities

• Translate complex operational needs into clear problem statements, objectives, criteria, and acquisition strategies.
• Identify and assess commercial technologies and capabilities relevant to DoD needs.
• Lead multidisciplinary programs with operators, engineers, acquisition professionals, and vendors.
• Manage outcomes, schedules, budgets, risks, dependencies, and stakeholder expectations.

Skills

Military operations

Commercial technology

DoD acquisition

Technical program management

Autonomy

Robotics

Artificial intelligence

Operational service

Education

Bachelor's degree

Master's degree

PhD

Job description

Riverside Research seeks a Program Manager with a strong background in military operations, commercial tech, and technical program management to support the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU). The role turns warfighter problems into executable programs, guiding prototypes from discovery to fielding.

Responsibilities include shaping acquisition strategies, managing vendors, and communicating status to senior stakeholders across services and industry. U.S. citizenship required.