Role SummaryWe are seeking a mission-driven, results-oriented Program Manager to lead the execution of high-priority initiatives for a defense sector client. In this role, you will own delivery of workstreams or small engagements, ensuring outputs are high-quality, actionable, and aligned to mission outcomes.
You will play a key role in implementing Dcode's RAIC methodology-helping to establish operating models, streamline acquisition pathways, improve decision-making, and enable scalable innovation. This role requires both strong execution and the ability to independently navigate ambiguity, solve problems, and maintain trusted client relationships.
Success in this role means delivering measurable results, resolving issues proactively, maintaining strong client alignment, and contributing to solutions that improve speed, efficiency, and impact across the program.
Salary range: $98,000 to $130,000 plus bi-annual bonuses
TS-SCI with polygraph is strongly preferred. Eligibility for clearance is Required.
Key Responsibilities
Program Leadership & Delivery
- Own delivery of defined workstreams or small projects, ensuring outputs are timely, high-quality, and aligned to client needs
- Translate client objectives into actionable plans, deliverables, and execution approaches
- Lead development of clear, decision-ready deliverables (briefings, frameworks, analyses, reports)
- Drive execution in agile, sprint-based environments, ensuring consistent progress and visibility
- Support or lead small engagements or contracts, ensuring delivery expectations are met
Analysis & Problem Solving
- Identify, troubleshoot, and resolve issues independently with minimal guidance
- Anticipate risks and implement mitigation strategies to avoid future occurrences
- Apply structured problem-solving approaches to improve processes, workflows, and outcomes
- Continuously identify opportunities to improve delivery efficiency and program impact
Client Engagement & Stakeholder Support
- Build and maintain strong working relationships with client counterparts
- Actively listen to customer needs and translate them into actionable solutions
- Serve as a reliable day-to-day point of contact for client stakeholders
- Facilitate alignment across stakeholders by synthesizing inputs and driving toward decisions
Continuous Improvement & Initiative
- Contribute to the design and refinement of operating models, governance structures, and repeatable processes
- Support development and application of decision frameworks (e.g., prioritization, risk assessment, transition readiness)
- Define and track performance metrics, including cycle time, throughput, and decision velocity
- Support development of ROI and impact models to inform leadership decisions
Skills and ExperienceRequired Skills and Experience
- 3-6 years of relevant experience (consulting, government, defense, or related fields)
- Experience owning workstreams or small projects, with demonstrated accountability for delivery
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to structure and solve ambiguous challenges
- Experience producing high-quality, client-ready deliverables (PowerPoint, Excel, written products)
- Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills
- Ability to manage competing priorities in fast-paced environments
- Familiarity with government acquisition, innovation programs, or technology integration
- Experience working in agile or iterative delivery environments
You'll Excel in This Role If You:- Take ownership of delivery and consistently produce high-quality, actionable outputs
- Proactively identify and resolve issues before they escalate
- Build trust with clients through reliability, responsiveness, and strong communication
- Balance structured thinking with practical execution
- Thrive in fast-paced, mission-driven environments with evolving priorities
Additional InformationWe look for resilient hustlers:
Our CEO busted her face on the balance beam in college and got back up... our CRO has knocked on a thousand doors, was rejected 999 times, and kept on knocking... What is your story?
