Program Manager - AI-Enabled Software Development

Nightwing

$122K — $253K *
Enterprise Technology
8 - 10 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in a STEM field
  • 10+ years in software development/information security/CNO
  • 5+ years in Agile program/project management
  • PMP certification or equivalent
  • Active TS/SCI security clearance with Polygraph
  • High staffing level maintenance (>90%)
  • Technical fluency in programming and modern development practices

Responsibilities

  • Lead cross-functional Agile teams in AI software development
  • Drive execution with focus on performance, costs, and schedules
  • Champion integration of AI/ML into development processes
  • Coordinate with government stakeholders on technical strategies
  • Manage program metrics for performance improvement
  • Foster innovation in AI applications for development
  • Ensure compliance during secure development practices

Benefits

  • Medical, vision, and dental insurance
  • 401k plan
  • Paid time off (PTO)
  • Holidays
  • Additional insurance options
Full Job Description
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


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 ($122,000-$253,000) 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.

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