Senior Technical Director

Ventus Solutions; Washington, Northern (District of Columbia, KY); On-site; USD 150,000 - 195,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

ESOP participation

Healthcare benefits

Retirement plans

Generous paid time off

Job summary

Ventus Executive Solutions is seeking a Senior Technical Director to support an innovative program office, serving as a trusted advisor to Government leadership and coordinating technical initiatives across international stakeholders supporting the DoD.

The role requires a TS clearance (SCI eligible preferred), 20+ years in DoD acquisition/ R&D or related leadership, and the ability to lead multinational teams while communicating with SES and senior officials.

Qualifications

• Bachelors degree in a technical or related field.
• 20+ years supporting DoD acquisition, R&D, international programs or operational leadership.
• Experience leading multinational defense or technology initiatives with allied governments.
• Ability to engage with SES, Flag Officers, General Officers and senior international officials.
• Strong technical credibility in AI/Autonomy, Quantum, Cyber, EW, or related areas.

Responsibilities

• Serve as trusted advisor to Government leadership on technical initiatives.
• Coordinate initiatives across international stakeholders to shape strategy and execution.
• Help shape governance frameworks and technology transition strategies.
• Lead complex, cross-functional teams with minimal oversight.

Skills

Artificial Intelligence & Autonomy

Quantum Technologies

Advanced Cyber

Undersea Capabilities

Electronic Warfare

Hypersonic Systems

Innovation

Information Sharing

Strategic Roadmaps

Cross-functional Leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering/Computer Science/ Physics/ Applied Mathematics/ National Security/ International Affairs

Master's degree or PhD in STEM or International Relations

Job description

Ventus Executive Solutions is a dynamic small business at the forefront of innovation and consulting. We believe our employees’ success is integral to our mission, which is why we prioritize work-life balance, personal development, and fostering a sense of belonging. In addition to providing opportunities to thrive, we offer competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits to attract and retain top talent ready to make a meaningful impact. As part of the Ventus Solutions team, you’ll collaborate with government and industry leaders to develop constructive architecture models that inform decision-making at the highest levels of the Department of Defense. As an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) we value curiosity, collaboration, and excellence, and we’re committed to supporting your professional growth through mentorship, career development, and a culture of continuous learning. Join a team where your ideas matter, your expertise drives impact, and your work advances the mission.

Ventus Executive Solutions is seeking a skilled Senior Technical Director to support an innovative program office. You will serve as a trusted advisor to Government leadership, coordinating technical initiatives across international stakeholders while helping shape strategy, execution, and engagement activities supporting the program office. Join our innovative team and contribute to impactful national security initiatives.

Work Location:

Washington, DC

Travel:

20-30% international and CONUS travel

Clearance:

TS Clearance required, SCI eligible preferred.

Required Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, Applied Mathematics, National Security, International Affairs, or a related technical discipline.
• 20+ years supporting Department of Defense acquisition, research and development, international programs, or operational leadership.
• Demonstrated experience leading multinational defense or technology initiatives involving allied governments.
• Ability to engage effectively with Senior Executive Service (SES), Flag Officers, General Officers, and senior international government officials.
• Strong technical credibility in one or more areas:

1. Artificial Intelligence and Autonomy
2. Quantum Technologies
3. Advanced Cyber
4. Undersea Capabilities
5. Electronic Warfare
6. Hypersonic and Counter-Hypersonic Systems
7. Innovation
8. Information Sharing

• Experience developing strategic roadmaps, governance frameworks, or technology transition strategies.
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to lead complex, cross-functional teams with minimal oversight. Proven self-starter capable of operating independently in a fast-paced, evolving environment.

Desired Experience:

• Master's degree or PhD in a STEM discipline or International Relations.
• Previous experience supporting:

1. Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD)
2. Navy International Programs Office (NIPO)
3. Defense Innovation Unit (DIU)
4. DARPA
5. Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA)
6. Office of Naval Research (ONR)
7. Strategic Capabilities Office (SCO)

• Experience supporting Foreign Military Sales (FMS) or international cooperative defense agreements.
• Familiarity with export control regulations, technology protection, and international security cooperation.
• Previous service as a Program Executive Officer (PEO), Program Manager, Technical Director, SES, or military Flag Officer.
• Experience transitioning advanced technologies from research to operational capability.

The expected salary range for this position is $150,000 - $195,000. This range represents a good-faith estimate and is not a guarantee; final compensation is determined by factors such as experience, qualifications, and government contract labor rate requirements and may fall outside the stated range. In addition to base pay, Ventus offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes healthcare benefits (medical, dental, and vision), ESOP participation, retirement plans, and generous paid time off.