Program Manager, Nuclear Smuggling Detection and Deterrence

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory; Richland (WA); On-site; USD 167,000 - 275,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

401(k) with company match

Relocation assistance

Flexible schedules

Job summary

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory seeks a senior NSDD Program Manager to lead the Office of Nuclear Smuggling Detection and Deterrence (NSDD) portfolio, based onsite in Richland, WA. You will coordinate with NSDD Headquarters, manage a ~$100M budget and ~70 staff, and shape program execution across international partners and sponsor agencies.

Successful candidates will have extensive DOE/NNSA engagement experience, strong leadership, and the ability to integrate technical, operational, and

Qualifications

• Minimum BS/BA with 11+ years of relevant project management experience OR MS/MA with 9+ years of relevant project management experience.
• Experience working directly with DOE/NNSA sponsors, other federal agencies, national laboratories, international organizations, foreign government counterparts, or partner-country organizations.

Responsibilities

• Translate NSDD guidance and requirements into clear direction for PNNL project managers, technical staff, and support organizations.
• Ensure work is executed within approved scope, schedule, and budget requirements and that management controls support effective performance, contracting, foreign travel, and project execution.
• Conduct periodic program and project reviews, assess program effectiveness, oversee cross-cutting integration projects, and address emerging performance issues.
• Provide oversight and direction to PNNL organizations supporting the program and review and approve program execution guidance documents.
• Maintain productive relationships with DOE/NNSA sponsors, other national laboratories, U.S. interagency organizations, multilateral organizations, foreign government counterparts, contractors, and partner-country personnel.

Education

BS/BA in a relevant field

MS/MA or higher in a relevant field

Job description

Overview

At PNNL, our core capabilities are divided among major departments that we refer to as Directorates within the Lab, focused on a specific area of scientific research or other function, with its own leadership team and dedicated budget.

Our Science & Technology directorates include National Security, Integrated Discovery Sciences, and Energy and Environment. In addition, we have an Environmental Molecular Sciences Laboratory, a Department of Energy, Office of Science user facility housed on the PNNL campus.

The National Security Directorate (NSD) drives science-based, mission-focused solutions to take on complex,real-worldthreats to our nation and the world.

The Physical Detection Systems and Deployment Division, part of NSD, delivers policy-informed technology solutions by removing barriers to real-world implementation. We strive to understand end-user environments to transition technology from the developmental stage to deployment. Our diverse expertise in operational systems provides tools, technologies, and approaches for combating a range of threats, both at home and in more than 100 countries around the globe.

Responsibilities

About the NSDD Program

The Office of Nuclear Smuggling Detection and Deterrence (NSDD), NA-213, is one of three offices within the National Nuclear Security Administration's Office of Global Material Security (GMS), NA-21. NSDD advances the U.S. Department of Energy's nonproliferation mission by strengthening partner-country capabilities to detect, disrupt, and investigate the illicit trafficking of special nuclear and other radioactive materials.

NSDD works with U.S. government agencies, multilateral organizations, foreign partners, national laboratories, and contractors to provide radiation detection systems, associated training, technical solutions, capacity‑building assistance, equipment services, and performance assessment tools. The program's work is organized across three integrated elements:

• Strategic Engagements establishes programmatic direction through risk and threat analysis; engagement and coordination with the U.S. interagency, multilateral organizations such as the International Atomic Energy Agency, and foreign partners; and management of program information and communications.
• Applied Solutions develops and manages NSDD capabilities, including technology solutions, capacity‑building tools, partner assessment metrics and evaluation tools, international nuclear forensics engagement capabilities, equipment services, and associated technical expertise.
• Partner Operations applies NSDD capabilities in the field through the design, construction, and deployment of radiation detection systems and through capacity‑building and equipment‑services activities that help international partners progress toward self‑sufficiency.

The Role

The NSDD Program Manager is the principal point of contact between NSDD Headquarters and PNNL and has oversight authority and responsibility for all PNNL NSDD activities. The Program Manager works closely with the Deputy Program Manager to lead a multidisciplinary organization, communicate program issues, status, needs, and priorities, and align execution with sponsor direction and PNNL requirements.

This position oversees a complex domestic and international portfolio with an annual budget of approximately $100 million and approximately 70 full‑time‑equivalent staff. Success requires strategic leadership, disciplined program and project management, strong sponsor engagement, sound judgment, and the ability to integrate technical, operational, and business functions across multiple organizations and international environments.

Responsibilities

The Program Manager is accountable for the successful leadership and execution of PNNL's NSDD portfolio. Key responsibilities include:

Program leadership and execution

• Translate NSDD guidance and requirements into clear direction for PNNL project managers, technical staff, and support organizations.
• Ensure work is executed within approved scope, schedule, and budget requirements and that management controls support effective performance, contracting, foreign travel, and project execution.
• Conduct periodic program and project reviews, assess program effectiveness, oversee cross‑cutting integration projects, and address emerging performance issues.
• Provide oversight and direction to PNNL organizations supporting the program and review and approve program execution guidance documents.

Sponsor and stakeholder relationships

• Serve as PNNL's principal point of contact with NSDD Headquarters and communicate programmatic issues, status, needs, risks, and priorities in a timely manner to senior NSDD and PNNL management and other stakeholders.
• Maintain productive relationships with DOE/NNSA sponsors, other national laboratories, U.S. interagency organizations, multilateral organizations, foreign government counterparts, contractors, and partner‑country personnel.
• Coordinate with PNNL sector and subsector managers regarding funding and sales expectations, program priorities, and other information relevant to institutional planning and performance.
• Lead through influence and adapt execution as sponsor priorities, congressional direction, U.S. and foreign government positions, and program strategies evolve.

Risk, compliance, and operational oversight

• Continuously assess environment, safety, and health; security; operational; and performance risks and ensure appropriate mitigation measures are implemented.
• Ensure compliance with PNNL export control, security, records‑management, training, travel, information‑release, procurement, and other applicable policies and procedures.
• Review and approve PNNL NSDD foreign travel, evaluate project travel for mission need and risk, approve formal project Information Release requests, and review purchase requisitions as assigned.
• Manage formal program records and periodically review project‑team records for compliance with applicable requirements.

Workforce, strategy, and organizational leadership

• Coordinate with PNNL line management to forecast staffing needs; develop, recruit, and secure required capabilities; and approve key or senior‑level staffing decisions for the program.
• Ensure staff complete program‑required training and have the knowledge, tools, and support needed to perform their assigned roles.
• Develop and communicate a forward‑looking vision for PNNL's NSDD work, influence program strategy and execution, and identify opportunities for PNNL thought leadership and participation in new initiatives.
• Support succession planning, assess staff readiness, identify development and cross‑training opportunities, and build a resilient workforce with nuclear security and complementary capabilities.

This position is based in Richland, WA and requires an onsite presence.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

• BS/BA and 11+ years of relevant project management experience -OR-
• MS/MA or higher and 9+ years of relevant project management experience
• Experience working directly with DOE/NNSA sponsors, other federal agencies, national laboratories, international organizations, foreign government counterparts, or partner‑country organizations.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Demonstrated experience leading complex, multidisciplinary, and multi‑organizational programs with significant scope, schedule, budget, risk, and stakeholder‑management responsibilities.
• Experience working directly with DOE/NNSA sponsors, other federal agencies, national laboratories, international organizations, foreign government counterparts, or partner‑country organizations.
• At least two years, preferably three to five years, of experience with NSDD or another nuclear nonproliferation, nuclear security, or international technology‑deployment program.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively with senior leaders, sponsors, technical teams, business functions, and external stakeholders and to lead through influence in a changing environment.
• Project Management Professional certification is desirable.
• Ability to obtain DOE Q clearance.

Hazardous Working Conditions/Environment

• Requires travel to Sponsor offices (Washington, DC) and international locations.

Additional Information

This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a federal security clearance.

A security clearance background investigation includes review of your employment, education, financial, and criminal history, as well as interviews with you and your personal references, neighbors, and co‑workers to determine trustworthiness, reliability, and loyalty to the United States. The investigation also examines your foreign connections, drug and alcohol use, foreign influence, and overall conduct.

Requirements:

• U.S. Citizenship
• Background Investigation: Applicants selected will be subject to a Federal background investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified matter in accordance with 10 CFR 710, Appendix B.
• Drug Testing: All Security Clearance positions are Testing Designated Positions, which means that the applicant selected for hire is subject to pre‑employment drug testing, and post‑employment random drug testing. In addition, applicants must be able to demonstrate non‑use of illegal drugs, including marijuana, for the 12 consecutive months preceding completion of the requisite Questionnaire for National Security Positions (QNSP).

Note: Applicants will be considered ineligible for security clearance processing by the U.S. Department of Energy if non‑use of illegal drugs, including marijuana, for 12 months cannot be demonstrated.

Testing Designated Position

This position is a Testing Designated Position (TDP). The candidate selected for this position will be subject to pre‑employment and random drug testing for illegal drugs, including marijuana, consistent with the Controlled Substances Act and the PNNL Workplace Substance Abuse Program.

About PNNL

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) is a world‑class research institution powered by a highly educated, diverse workforce committed to the values of Integrity, Creativity, Collaboration, Impact, and Courage. Every year, scores of dynamic, driven people come to PNNL to work with renowned researchers on meaningful science, innovations and outcomes for the U.S. Department of Energy and other sponsors; here is your chance to be one of them!

At PNNL, you will find an exciting research environment and excellent benefits including health insurance, and flexible work schedules. PNNL is located in eastern Washington State—the dry side of Washington known for its stellar outdoor recreation and affordable cost of living. The Lab’s campus is only a 45‑minute flight (or ~3 hour drive) from Seattle or Portland, and is serviced by the convenient PSC airport, connected to 8 major hubs.

Commitment to Excellence and Equal Employment Opportunity

Our laboratory is committed to fostering a work environment where all individuals are treated with fairness and respect while solving critical challenges in fundamental sciences, national security, and energy resiliency. We are an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. PNNL considers all applicants for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information (including family medical history), protected veteran status, and any other status or characteristic protected by federal, state, and/or local laws.

We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in our job application procedures and in employment. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, contact us at [e-mail].

Drug Free Workplace

PNNL is committed to a drug‑free workplace supported by Workplace Substance Abuse Program (WSAP) and complies with federal laws prohibiting the possession and use of illegal drugs.

If you are offered employment at PNNL, you must pass a drug test prior to commencing employment. PNNL complies with federal law regarding illegal drug use. Under federal law, marijuana remains an illegal drug. If you test positive for any illegal controlled substance, including marijuana, your offer of employment will be withdrawn.

Security, Credentialing, and Eligibility Requirements

As a national laboratory, PNNL is responsible for adhering to the Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD‑12) and Department of Energy (DOE) Order 473.1A, which require new employees to obtain and maintain a HSPD‑12 Personal Identify Verification (PIV) Credential. To obtain this credential, new employees must successfully complete the applicable tier of federal background investigation post hire and receive a favorable federal adjudication. The tier of federal background investigation will be determined by job duties and national security or public trust responsibilities associated with the job. All tiers of investigation include a declaration of illegal drug activities, including use, supply, possession, or manufacture within the last 1 to 7 years (depending on the applicable tier of investigation). Illegal drug activities include marijuana and cannabis derivatives, which are still considered illegal under federal law, regardless of state laws.

For foreign national candidates:

If you have not resided in the U.S. for three consecutive years, you are not eligible for the PIV credential and instead will need to obtain a favorable Local Site Specific Only (LSSO) Federal risk determination to maintain employment. Once you meet the three‑year residency requirement thereafter, you will be required to obtain a PIV credential to maintain employment. The tier of federal background investigation required to obtain the PIV credential will be determined by job duties at the time you become eligible for the PIV credential.

Mandatory Requirements

Please be aware that the Department of Energy (DOE) prohibits DOE employees and contractors from having any affiliation with the foreign government of a country DOE has identified as a “country of risk” without explicit approval by DOE and Battelle. If you are offered a position at PNNL and currently have any affiliation with the government of one of these countries, you will be required to disclose this information and recuse yourself of that affiliation or receive approval from DOE and Battelle prior to your first day of employment.

Rockstar Rewards

Employees and their families are offered medical insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, robust telehealth care options, several mental health benefits, free wellness coaching, health savings account, flexible spending accounts, basic life insurance, disability insurance*, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, tuition assistance, relocation, backup childcare, legal benefits, supplemental parental bonding leave, surrogacy and adoption assistance, and fertility support. Employees are automatically enrolled in our company‑funded pension plan* and may enroll in our 401 (k) savings plan with company match*.

* Research Associates excluded.

**All benefits are dependent upon eligibility.

Click Here For Rockstar Rewards

Notice to Applicants

PNNL lists the full pay range for the position in the job posting. Starting pay is calculated from the minimum of the pay range and actual placement in the range is determined by an individual’s relevant job‑related skills, qualifications, and experience. This approach is applicable to all positions, with the exception of positions governed by collective bargaining agreements and certain limited‑term positions which have specific pay rules.

As part of our commitment to fair compensation practices, we do not ask for or consider current or past salaries in making compensation offers at hire. Instead, our compensation offers are determined by the specific requirements of the position, prevailing market trends, applicable collective bargaining agreements, pay equity for the position type, and individual qualifications and skills relevant to the performance of the position.

Minimum Salary

USD $166,800.00/Yr.

Maximum Salary

USD $275,200.00/Yr.