Technical Lead, Digital Optimization

VTG Defense; Beavercreek (OH); On-site; USD 150,000 - 185,000; Full time

Job summary

VTG Defense seeks an experienced Senior SME to lead and align technical execution across DoD/IC optimization programs, serving as the senior technical authority shaping secure, scalable solutions.

You will define architectures, lead cross-functional teams, and drive DevSecOps adoption in secure environments while ensuring compliance with RMF, Zero Trust, and NIST guidelines.

Qualifications

• 10–15 years of relevant technical experience on DoD/IC programs.
• Proven experience in classified or highly regulated environments.
• Strong background in modern software architectures and cloud computing.
• Hands-on knowledge of DevSecOps, automation tools, CI/CD, and infrastructure as code.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the Chief Technical Authority across multiple DoD/IC programs, aligning solutions with mission objectives and security constraints.
• Define and govern architectures, standards, and engineering practices for cleared environments (on-prem, hybrid, cloud).
• Lead and mentor senior technical staff across software engineering, cloud, data, cybersecurity, and DevSecOps.

Skills

Technical leadership

DoD/IC experience

Cloud computing

DevSecOps

CI/CD pipelines

Infrastructure as code

Zero Trust

Security architecture

RMF/ATO

Stakeholder communication

Education

Bachelor's degree

Master's preferred

Job description

Overview

VTG is seeking an experienced SME to lead and align technical execution across Department of Defense (DoD) and Intelligence Community (IC) digital optimization programs. This role serves as the senior technical authority responsible for shaping secure, scalable, and mission-aligned solutions that modernize legacy systems and accelerate operational outcomes.

What will you do?

• Serve as the Chief Technical Authority across multiple DoD/IC programs, ensuring solutions align with mission objectives, security constraints, and operational realities
• Define and govern technical architectures, standards, and engineering best practices for cleared environments (on-prem, hybrid, cloud)
• Lead and mentor senior technical staff across software engineering, cloud, data, cybersecurity, and DevSecOps disciplines
• Translate mission needs and operational requirements into secure, maintainable, and scalable technical solutions
• Drive adoption of modern engineering practices including DevSecOps, CI/CD, infrastructure as code, and automated testing within classified constraints
• Ensure compliance with DoD/IC policies and frameworks (e.g., RMF, Zero Trust, ICD 503, NIST)
• Partner with Program Managers to manage technical risk, cost, schedule, and performance
• Engage senior government stakeholders (O-6/SES/GS-15 equivalent) as a trusted technical advisor
• Support capture and proposal efforts, including technical solutioning, staffing strategies, and risk mitigation
• Evaluate and integrate emerging technologies to enhance mission effectiveness while maintaining security posture

Do you have what it takes?

Required qualifications:

• 10-15 years of relevant technical experience, including senior leadership roles on DoD or IC programs.
• Proven experience designing and delivering solutions in classified or highly regulated environments.
• Strong background in modern software architectures, cloud computing (AWS, Azure, or hybrid), and enterprise IT modernization.
• Hands-on knowledge of DevSecOps, automation tools, CI/CD pipelines, and infrastructure as code.
• Solid foundation in cybersecurity principles, Zero Trust architecture, and secure system design.
• Experience working within RMF / ATO processes and collaborating with security stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to lead technical teams, influence across organizations, and communicate effectively with both engineers and senior leaders.
• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related technical field (Master's preferred).

Desired qualifications:

• Active Top Secret / SCI clearance or able to get one
• Experience supporting Air Force, Space Force, Combatant Commands, or IC agencies
• Prior role as Chief Engineer, Principal Architect, or Technical Lead on large-scale defense programs
• Familiarity with data platforms, analytics, AI/ML, or C5ISR-related systems
• Experience supporting proposals, task order captures, or architecting solutions for IDIQ contracts