Role Summary

We are seeking a mission-driven, detail-oriented Senior Program Associate to support the execution of high-priority initiatives for a defense sector client. This role is ideal for a professional with 2-3 years of experience who can independently execute defined workstreams while contributing to broader program success.

In this role, you will help stand up and operationalize a structured "action cell" using Dcode's RAIC methodology, supporting efforts to streamline acquisition, improve decision-making, and modernize financial planning and execution. You will produce high-quality, decision-ready deliverables, contribute to the development of repeatable processes and frameworks, and support client engagements in a fast-paced, evolving environment.

Success in this role means delivering high-quality outputs with consistency, developing a strong understanding of client mission priorities, anticipating challenges, and proactively identifying opportunities for improvement.

Salary range: $79,000 to $98,000 plus bi-annual bonuses

TS-SCI with polygraph is strongly preferred. Eligibility for clearance is Required

Key Responsibilities

Program Leadership & Delivery

• Execute defined workstreams with guidance, ensuring timely and high-quality delivery of outputs.
• Develop clear, structured deliverables (briefings, analyses, frameworks, and reports) that support client decision-making and program progress.
• Support the design, documentation, and validation of operating models, workflows, and governance structures.
• Assist in building and refining repeatable playbooks, decision frameworks, and program artifacts.
• Contribute to agile, sprint-based execution cycles, ensuring consistent progress and visibility.

Analysis & Problem Solving

• Conduct discovery and analysis to identify bottlenecks, gaps, and opportunities across acquisition, funding, and requirements processes.
• Support the development of decision frameworks (e.g., down-selects, risk assessments, transition readiness).
• Help define and track performance metrics, including cycle time, throughput, and decision velocity.
• Contribute to ROI and impact models that inform leadership decisions and future investment strategies.

Client Engagement & Stakeholder Support

• Support day-to-day client interactions, including meeting preparation, note-taking, and follow-up actions.
• Build an understanding of the client's mission priorities and how program activities align to broader organizational goals.
• Assist in facilitating alignment across stakeholders by preparing materials and synthesizing inputs.
• Contribute to the development of communication materials that support leadership alignment and culture change.

Continuous Improvement & Initiative

• Anticipate potential issues and proactively suggest solutions or process improvements.
• Capture lessons learned and contribute to refining tools, frameworks, and methodologies.
• Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, reduce delivery friction, and enhance program impact.

Skills and Experience

Required Skills and Experience

• 2-3 years of relevant professional experience (consulting, government, defense, or related fields).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to structure ambiguous problems.
• Experience producing high-quality, client-ready deliverables (PowerPoint, Excel, written reports).
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Familiarity with or interest in government acquisition, innovation, or technology integration.
• Comfort working in agile, iterative delivery environments

You'll Excel in This Role If You:

• Take ownership of your workstreams and consistently deliver high-quality outputs.
• Are proactive in identifying problems and proposing thoughtful solutions.
• Can connect day-to-day tasks to broader mission and organizational priorities.
• Thrive in structured but fast-moving environments with evolving requirements.
• Are curious, adaptable, and eager to learn in a mission-driven setting.

Additional Information

We 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?