Position Overview

The Technical Project Manager (TPM) - DISA / PEO Transport Specialization - will lead the execution of complex technical programs supporting the Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA), with a primary focus on PEO Transport initiatives. This role requires deep expertise in optical transport, IP networking, network design and engineering, and implementation services across large-scale DoD environments. The TPM will serve as a customer-facing technical leader, directly engaging DISA stakeholders to ensure successful delivery of mission-critical network modernization and transport-layer capabilities.

The ideal candidate combines hands-on engineering credibility with disciplined program leadership, enabling them to guide cross-functional teams, coordinate with DISA program offices, and ensure solutions meet stringent technical, operational, and cybersecurity requirements.

Responsibilities

Program Leadership & Execution

• Lead end-to-end program management for DISA and PEO Transport initiatives involving optical transport, IP networking, and enterprise network modernization.
• Develop and maintain integrated master schedules, risk management plans, and execution roadmaps aligned with DISA's technical and operational priorities.
• Drive program milestones, engineering reviews, deployment readiness, and acceptance activities across internal engineering teams, vendors, and DISA stakeholders.
• Ensure all deliverables meet DISA technical standards, cybersecurity controls, and mission assurance requirements.

Customer-Facing Engagement (DISA / PEO Transport)

• Serve as the primary technical program interface with DISA PEO Transport, including engineering leads, program managers, and operational stakeholders.
• Conduct technical exchange meetings, design walkthroughs, and implementation planning sessions directly with DISA personnel.
• Provide clear, consistent communication of program status, risks, dependencies, and mitigation strategies to DISA leadership and internal executives.
• Build trusted relationships with DISA engineering teams to support long-term program success and future modernization initiatives.

Technical Oversight

• Provide technical leadership across optical networking (DWDM, OTN, ROADMs, 100G/400G transport), IP routing/switching, and network architecture.
• Support troubleshooting, root-cause analysis, and escalation management during deployment and sustainment phases.
• Ensure engineering solutions align with DISA's enterprise architecture, transport-layer strategy, and cybersecurity frameworks.

Implementation & Deployment Management

• Oversee implementation activities including site surveys, rack/stack, optical turn-ups, IP configuration, testing, and operational acceptance.
• Coordinate with vendors and OEMs for optical platforms, network hardware, and supporting technologies.
• Ensure all deployments adhere to DISA change management processes, security controls, and operational readiness requirements.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with engineering, operations, logistics, contracts, and security teams to ensure seamless program execution.
• Support proposal development, BOE creation, and technical inputs for DISA opportunities as needed.
• Mentor junior engineers and project staff, fostering a culture of technical excellence, disciplined execution, and customer focus.

Required Experience/Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in network engineering, optical transport, or IP architecture roles.
• 5+ years of experience managing technical programs or large-scale implementations for DISA, with direct engagement at PEO Transport strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated experience delivering optical, IP, or network modernization projects within classified or mission-critical DoD environments.
• Deep knowledge of optical networking technologies (DWDM, OTN, ROADMs, 100G/400G transport).
• Strong expertise in IP networking (BGP, OSPF, MPLS, QoS, IPv6, segmentation).
• Experience with network design, engineering documentation, and implementation methodologies.
• Familiarity with DISA's technical standards, transport architecture, cybersecurity requirements, and enterprise engineering processes.
• Understanding of DoD compliance frameworks including STIGs, Impact Levels, and RMF.
• Strong program leadership with the ability to manage complex technical efforts across multiple stakeholders.
• Excellent communication skills, capable of engaging DISA engineers, program managers, and senior leadership.
• Highly organized, analytical, and detail-oriented with a focus on execution and mission outcomes.
• Ability to build consensus, manage competing priorities, and drive cross-functional alignment.

Preferred Experience/Qualifications

• Prior experience supporting DISA PEO Transport programs such as DISN modernization, optical transport upgrades, or backbone engineering initiatives.
• Vendor-specific certifications (e.g., Ciena, Nokia, HPE/Juniper, Cisco).
• Project management certifications (e.g., PMP, ITIL) or technical certifications (e.g., CCNP, JNCIP).
• Experience with large-scale implementation services, network cutovers, and operational transitions.

Special Requirements/Security Clearance

• Active U.S. government security clearance or eligibility to obtain one, given DISA's classified environment.
• Willingness to travel up to 30% for DISA engagements, industry events, and partner meetings.
• Valid driver's license.

Salary Range

Based on the roles, responsibilities, and requirements, the projected pay range for this position is: $105,000 - $140,000.

The annual base salary provided is a guideline for this position and is not a guarantee of compensation or salary. When extending an offer, By Light also considers other variables such as (but not limited to) work experience, education, training, skill set, internal peer equity, clearance level, and market conditions. In addition, By Light provides an extensive selection of benefits and offerings to our employees.

Physical Demands

• Ability to travel, type, communicate via telephone and sit for extended periods of time.