Program Manager

Ascend Recruiting Partners; United States; On-site; USD 165,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Ascend Recruiting Partners is seeking a DoD Program Manager for a major manufacturing project in Stafford, VA. The ideal candidate will possess over 5 years of experience in managing DoD contracts with a strong technical background in production environments.

This position requires leadership of cross-functional teams, strong understanding of budget management, and excellent communication skills. The salary range is from $165,000 to $190,000, and U.S. citizenship is required.

Qualifications

• 5+ years managing DoD contracts and programs with production/manufacturing experience.
• Strong understanding of DoD acquisition processes.
• Technically proficient with complex systems and solutions.

Responsibilities

• Lead Integrated Project Teams across multiple functions to ensure project success.
• Oversee budgeting and contract execution under DoD regulations.
• Promote continuous improvement and ensure compliance with internal policies.

Skills

Leadership in cross-functional teams

DoD acquisition knowledge

Budget management

Communication skills

Project management in manufacturing

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, or related field

Tools

FAR/DFARS compliance

Project management tools

Job description

Job Title: DoD Program Manager

Industry: Manufacturing - Aerospace/Defense

Location: Stafford, VA (On-site)

Relocation Provided: Yes

Salary Range: $165,000 – $190,000

U.S. Citizenship and the ability to obtain a security clearance

Job Overview

A leader in loitering munitions and tactical solutions is seeking a dynamic and experienced Program Manager to lead key DoD production/manufacturing programs. This role demands a strategic leader with strong technical acumen and a solid grasp of DoD acquisition processes. You will be the primary point of contact for government stakeholders, executives, and industry partners, driving program success from inception through delivery.

Minimum Requirements

• 5+ years of experience managing DoD contracts and programs, with some experience managing projects and programs in a production/manufacturing environment
• Must have experience managing large projects in a production/manufacturing facility
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, or related field
• Proven leadership in cross-functional Integrated Project Teams (IPTs)
• Strong understanding of DoD acquisition (FAR/DFARS)
• Demonstrated success in budget management, contract execution, and vendor oversight
• Technically proficient with the ability to manage complex systems and solutions
• Excellent communication, leadership, and organizational skills
• U.S. Citizenship and the ability to obtain a security clearance

Preferred Requirements

• PMP Certification (preferred, not required if has strong DoD program leadership experience) 10+ years if no PMP

Responsibilities

Program Leadership & Execution

• Lead IPTs across engineering, quality, supply chain, procurement, and production
• Define project scope, milestones, and KPIs with internal and external stakeholders
• Align program delivery with customer priorities and strategic goals
• Act as the primary representative to PMO offices, government agencies, and subcontractors

Budget & Contract Management

• Oversee budgeting, cost analysis, and contract execution under FAR/DFARS
• Track expenditures and identify cost-saving opportunities
• Manage vendor and subcontractor performance

Technical Oversight & Strategy

• Partner with engineering teams to integrate new technologies
• Ensure delivery of technically compliant solutions
• Promote continuous improvement and innovation

Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensure program compliance with DoD regulations and internal policies
• Identify and mitigate risks with appropriate contingency planning
• Maintain accurate program documentation and reporting