Guardian Mission Operations LeadPosition Title: Technical Operations / Mission Integration Lead
- Location: Herndon, VA (On-site with limited telework flexibility and up to 25% Travel Required OCONUS/CONUS)
Clearance: Active TS/SCI with CI Polygraph (Required)
Position Overview (BLUF)Nightwing is seeking a
Technical Operations & Mission Integration Lead to operationalize the Guardian platform in support of sensitive national security missions.
This role is purpose-built for a
senior Technical Operations Officer-type leader who can bridge
mission execution, technical capability, and program delivery. You will ensure Guardian systems are not only deployed, but
effectively integrated, operationally relevant, and sustainable in real-world environments.
You will operate at the intersection of:
- Field operations
- Engineering, software, and hardware integration
- Mission-focused program execution
This position will include a variety of activities, including:- Mission Integration & Operational Enablement
- Translate operational requirements into deployable Guardian configurations and CONOPS
- Ensure system alignment with denied, low-visibility, and contested environments
- Serve as the bridge between operators, engineers, and program leadership
- Assisting in maintaining program documentation, schedules, and reporting artifacts
- Leveraging tools such as Excel, PowerPoint, specialized RF performance models, and project tracking systems (e.g., Jira, MS Project)
- Supporting continuous improvement of program execution processes and workflows
Forward Deployed Operations- Lead and support global deployments across:
- Fixed sites, mobile platforms, and expeditionary kits
- Provide in-field leadership during:
- Initial installs
- Mission execution
- Real-time troubleshooting
- Ensure systems remain operational, resilient, and mission-effective
Technical Systems Integration (Expanded Scope)- Oversee integration and fielding of:
- TAK ecosystem (ATAK/WinTAK/TAK Server)
- MANET radios and RF communications systems
- Intelligence information fusion, AI tools
- SATCOM / LEO backhaul (e.g., Starlink)
- Apply working knowledge of:
- RF engineering principles (line-of-sight, UHF/VHF/HF bands)
- Network architecture and IP-based communications
- COTS and GOTS hardware and software integration
- Perform and oversee:
- Ethernet, coaxial, and power cable fabrication and repair
- Field-expedient system modifications and integration
Software & Hardware Development Support- Provide operator-driven input to software development efforts, including:
- Feature prioritization
- Usability in operational environments
- Support hardware development teams by:
- Validating prototypes in real-world conditions
- Providing feedback on durability, power, and integration constraints
- Contribute basic scripting or configuration-level development (as needed) to support system functionality
Program Management & Execution- Support program execution across:
- Schedule development and tracking
- CDRL deliverables and reporting
- Financial oversight (DOW-level awareness, budget alignment, execution tracking)
- Assist in managing:
- Subcontractor and vendor performance
- Deployment timelines and resource allocation
- Ensure compliance with:
- Operational, financial, and security requirements
Training Development & Mission Transition- Develop and deliver training programs for:
- U.S. operators
- Foreign partners (FMS environments)
- Coordinate training events, materials, and certification approaches
- Ensure smooth transition from deployment to sustained operational use
Stakeholder Engagement- Interface directly with:
- U.S. Government customers
- Foreign military and interagency partners
- Build trust and expand adoption of Guardian capabilities
- Provide executive-level updates and mission feedback
Required Qualifications- 15-20+ years experience in:
- Technical operations, intelligence operations, or mission systems integration
- Direct experience in:
- Denied / hostile / low-visibility environments
- Global operational deployments
- Working knowledge of:
- RF communications (LOS, UHF/VHF/HF)
- IP networking and system integration
- Hands-on experience with:
- Cable fabrication (Ethernet, coaxial, power)
- Field system installation and troubleshooting
- Hardware systems assembly and software configuration
- Experience supporting:
- Hardware and/or software development teams
- Program execution experience including:
- Scheduling, CDRLs, and financial tracking
Preferred Qualifications- Background as:
- Technical Operations Officer / CI / HUMINT / CNO support
- Experience with:
- TAK ecosystem
- Silvus or similar MANET radios
- ISR / sensor integration
- COT and other data transmission formats
- Prior military leadership (E7+ or equivalent)
- Experience supporting FMS or coalition operations
Key Attributes- Mission-first, calm under pressure
- Hands-on technical leader (not purely managerial)
- Able to operate independently in austere environments
- Strong communicator across tactical to executive levels
Positioning- "You are owning how the capability is used in real operations"
- "You will influence both the tech AND the mission"
- "This is not IT - this is operational capability delivery"
Bottom of Form
Optional Skills:Why Nightwing- Work on real-world, mission-driven programs supporting national security
- Gain hands-on experience across program management, finance, and technology
- Operate in a collaborative, fast-paced environment with high visibility
- Clear growth path from entry-level to program leadership
- High academic achievement (3.5+ GPA preferred)
