About You:

Imagine a role where every conversation could spark innovation, where your ability to connect with others can drive substantial growth, and where your strategic insights shape the future of Department of War (DoW) technologies. As Program Director, you will be the strategic technology leader that drives efforts to accelerate the transition of scientific discoveries to the warfighter, build national security innovation ecosystems, and align partnerships to mission priorities. This isn't just a job; it's an opportunity to be a catalyst for change, a bridge between visions, and a key architect in our journey toward success.

Position Overview & Responsibilities:

The Program Director will lead the development and execution of a new S&T Center planned for the Fall of 2026 to oversee a broad and flexible portfolio of transdisciplinary and foundational research, for strategic innovation across the entire Defense enterprise, and enable the rigorous and blue-sky research to rapidly transform into breakthrough national security solutions. This position will lead a passionate team of program leads, analysts, and specialists to work cooperatively with the DoW in the design and execution of this exciting new Center. The ideal candidate has experience over a broad range of scientific topics and technologies, demonstrated strategic thinking, experience in engagements with deep-tech industry, and deep knowledge of the DoW innovation ecosystem.

• Design, manage, and execute a diverse R&D portfolio of the highest quality solutions and performers, guiding the evolution of the emerging technology towards mission-capable solutions and platforms, integrating university-based research with DoW needs and capabilities
• Manage a team of project managers, analysts, and collaboration specialists that conduct analyses and technical services to evaluate current and future environments, identify gaps and risks, and pathways to developing future-state solutions
• Leverage deep expertise in the DoW innovation ecosystem to identify and develop partnerships across academia, industry, and government agencies

This position is contingent upon contract award, with performance anticipated to begin on or about September 1st , 2026

Required Education, Certification, Skills, Capabilities:

• PhD degree or higher in a STEM field (science, technology, engineering, and math)
• 10+ years• experience in managing and executing foundational research programs and developing strategies for technology transition to government and industry
• Technical experience over a broad range of scientific topics and technologies, especially mathematics, materials, quantum, artificial intelligence, and space
• Demonstrated experience in managing multi-million-dollar budgets
• Demonstrated experience in supervising staff with a diverse skill set
• Detail-oriented with exceptional organizational, critical thinking, and communication skills to ensure clear, accurate information and effective collaboration
• Strong commercial and technology awareness with the ability to identify and develop opportunities, especially in the Federal government space

Desired Education, Certification, Skills, and Capabilities:

• 8+ years• experience in the role of technical advisor or director for DoW R&D programs, leading tri-service initiatives to coordinate programs and policies, and guiding research portfolios
• Experience in building S&T programs to promote international collaboration
• Demonstrated experience in engagements with deep-tech industry to transition technology
• Excellent interpersonal skills, working both independently with initiative and collaboratively.
• Manage and prioritize diverse job tasks, perform effectively in a fast-paced environment, and meet deadlines in a timely manner while maintaining professionalism and product quality.
• Excellent organizational skills, flexibility and attention to detail.

Primary Work Location: Work will be performed in Arlington, VA, with the option for remote work in accordance with the Hybrid Work & Telecommuting Policy and based on mission requirements.

Security:

• Must be a U.S. Citizen.
• Security clearance of TS/SCI

Special Work Conditions:

• Possible travel to other CONUS locations.
• Occasional work outside of corporate core business hours.

Salary Range: $240,000 - $250,000 annually

Virginia Tech Applied Research Corporation: VT-ARC is a 501(c)(3), non-profit R&D organization affiliated with Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech or VT). Our mission is to provide superior analytic and technology solutions across multiple domains by leveraging Virginia Tech's multidisciplinary research and innovation ecosystem. With unique access to the broad and rich research enterprise found at Virginia Tech, VT-ARC forms multi-disciplinary teams to apply innovative solutions to the real-world problems that strain our social, political, industrial, and economic foundations.

To learn more about VT-ARC's Benefits, Perks, Culture & more visit our Careers page: https://vt-arc.org/careers/