Program Manager - AI-Enabled Software Development

Nightwing; Corridor North (MD); On-site; USD 147,000 - 296,000; Full time

Job summary

Nightwing seeks an experienced Program Manager to lead AI-enabled software development teams, driving innovation with AI/ML to advance national security missions. You will manage cross-functional delivery, align with government priorities, and ensure secure DevSecOps practices.

This onsite role at our Maryland facility offers opportunity to mentor engineers and shape scalable, mission-critical systems. Ideal candidates bring 10+ years in software or CNO, 5+ years in program management, PMP, and

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in CS/IS/Engineering or related STEM field.
• 10+ years in software development, information security, or CNO.
• 5+ years of program/project management leading Agile teams.
• PMP certification or equivalent.
• Active TS/SCI clearance with Polygraph.
• Proven staffing track record (>90%).
• Technical fluency in Python, C/C++, JavaScript/PHP; containers; CI/CD.
• Strong Agile/Scrum coordination.
• U.S. citizenship required.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor cross-functional Agile teams building AI-enabled software.
• Drive program execution: performance, cost, and schedule with staffing.
• Champion AI/ML integration into the software development lifecycle.
• Coordinate technical strategy with government stakeholders.
• Manage program metrics and measurable performance improvements.
• Foster innovation with language models to streamline development.
• Ensure secure development within DevSecOps practices.
• Build and retain talent in AI/ML and CNO capabilities.
• Facilitate collaboration across product lines and mission partners.

Skills

AI/ML integration

Agile/Scrum leadership

Programming: Python

Programming: C/C++

Programming: JavaScript/PHP

DevSecOps

Staffing optimization

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in CS/IS/Engineering

Master's degree in IA/CS/Cybersecurity

PMP certification

TS/SCI clearance with Polygraph

Tools

CI/CD pipelines

Containerization

Docker

Job description

Nightwing provides technically advanced full-spectrum cyber, data operations, systems integration and intelligence mission support services to meet our customers’ most demanding challenges. Our capabilities include cyber space operations, cyber defense and resiliency, vulnerability research, ubiquitous technical surveillance, data intelligence, lifecycle mission enablement, and software modernization. Nightwing brings disruptive technologies, agility, and competitive offerings to customers in the intelligence community, defense, civil, and commercial markets.

Program Manager - AI-Enabled Software Development

Position Overview

Nightwing is seeking an experienced Program Manager who thrives on leading high-performing teams, driving innovation with artificial intelligence, and strengthening our nation's security through cutting-edge software development capabilities. Join a team at the forefront of leveraging modern AI and language models to transform how we build scalable, resilient systems that empower mission-critical operations. Nightwing develops strategic and tactical SIGINT solutions that secure the interests of the U.S. and its partners.

Our collaborative environment embraces creativity, integrity, and constant improvement. With access to state-of-the-art AI/ML tools, opportunities to grow professionally, and meaningful work alongside the nation's finest service members and engineers, you'll help shape tomorrow's development paradigm today.

This is an ONSITE position based out of our National Business Park, Maryland location.

What You Will Do:

• Lead and mentor cross-functional Agile development teams building next-generation software systems that leverage AI and large language models to automate and accelerate development workflows
• Drive program execution ensuring technical performance, cost control, and schedule adherence while maintaining staffing levels across specialized disciplines including AI/ML engineers, software developers, and DevSecOps practitioners
• Champion AI/ML integration into the software development lifecycle, incorporating automated code generation, intelligent testing frameworks, and AI-assisted development tools to increase team velocity and code quality
• Coordinate technical strategy with government stakeholders, aligning AI-enabled delivery capabilities with evolving mission requirements and customer priorities
• Manage program metrics and performance, consistently improving award fee scores through measurable enhancements in technical innovation, contract execution, and customer engagement
• Foster innovation by identifying opportunities to apply language models and AI technologies to streamline development processes, automate repetitive tasks, and enhance developer productivity
• Ensure secure development practices, integrating AI tools within approved DevSecOps workflows while maintaining compliance with security requirements and configuration management standards
• Build and retain talent, recruiting and developing high-performing teams with expertise in AI/ML, modern software development, and CNO capabilities
• Facilitate collaboration across product lines and mission partners to deliver integrated, performance-driven solutions that support large-scale operational requirements

Qualifications You Must Have:

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Engineering, or related STEM field
• 10+ years of experience in software development, information security, or Computer Network Operations, with substantial technical depth
• 5+ years of program/project management experience leading Agile software development teams delivering complex technical capabilities
• Project Management Professional (PMP) certification or equivalent
• Active TS/SCI security clearance with Polygraph
• Proven track record maintaining high staffing levels (>90%) and driving measurable improvements in contract performance and customer satisfaction
• Technical fluency with modern software development practices, including experience with programming languages (Python, C/C++, JavaScript/PHP), containerization, and CI/CD pipelines
• Strong understanding of Agile/Scrum methodologies with hands-on experience coordinating sprint planning, backlog management, and delivery execution
• Excellent communication and leadership skills, with ability to present technical concepts to both technical teams and executive leadership
• U.S. citizenship is required

Qualifications We Prefer:

• Master's degree in Information Assurance, Computer Science, Cybersecurity, or related field
• Direct experience implementing AI/ML technologies, large language models (LLMs), or generative AI tools into software development workflows
• Hands-on background as a software engineer or technical lead, with experience in vulnerability research, reverse engineering, malware analysis, or CNO capability development
• Demonstrated success automating development workflows and accelerating mission readiness through technical innovation

Why Join Nightwing?

• Lead Innovation: Spearhead the integration of AI and language models into mission-critical development programs
• Mission-Driven Impact: Directly contribute to programs that make the world safer and more secure
• Cutting-Edge Technology: Work with the latest advancements in AI/ML, cloud computing, and scalable architectures
• Talented Teams: Lead brilliant engineers, data scientists, and AI specialists in a dynamic, collaborative environment that values creativity and results
• Career Growth: Expand your expertise at the intersection of program management, AI technology, and national security
• Meaningful Work: Partner with service members and government stakeholders on high-impact CNO capabilities

Security Clearance Requirements:

Security Clearance Type: TS/SCI with Polygraph
Security Clearance Status: Active and existing security clearance required at start

Salary & Benefits

The salary associated with this position ($147,000-$296,000) is commensurate with the selected candidate’s qualifications, years of relevant experience, and demonstrated level of expertise. Compensation will be determined based on these factors to ensure alignment with skills, responsibilities, and market standards.

Nightwing offers medical, vision and dental insurance coverage in addition to a 401k plan, PTO, Holidays, and additional insurances.

Nightwing is An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status, age or any other federally protected class.