Senior Program Manager IC

Company Description

Dcode is a team of doers dedicated to bridging the gap between the speed of technology and the federal government. We align people, culture, policies, and processes to get tech in the hands of those who need it most. Operating at the nexus of government leaders, emerging tech companies, and venture capital, we turn roadblocks into results.

We are seeking a mission-driven, results-oriented Senior Program Manager to lead the execution of high-priority initiatives for a defense sector client. In this role, you will lead major work streams and projects that deliver measurable mission outcomes, while helping stand up and operationalize a rapid acquisition capability.

You will play a critical role in building and implementing the frameworks, governance models, decision structures, and performance metrics required to accelerate innovation and delivery. This includes advising client stakeholders on program improvements, strengthening decision‑making discipline, and ensuring teams remain focused on outcomes rather than outputs.

Success in this role requires the ability to navigate ambiguity, lead teams, influence senior stakeholders, and translate complex challenges into structured, repeatable solutions that scale.

Salary range: $116,000-$152,000

Active TS clearance with eligibility for SCI access, with the ability to pass a C/I polygraph is strongly preferred. Eligibility for clearance is required.

• Lead projects or major work streams delivering measurable mission outcomes in high‑tempo environments.
• Translate strategic objectives into actionable plans, operating models, and repeatable processes.
• Design and implement frameworks for rapid acquisition, including intake, evaluation, decision‑making, and transition workflows.
• Drive execution through agile, sprint‑based delivery models, ensuring progress is measurable and iterative.
• Ensure teams remain focused on outcomes (mission impact, speed, ROI) rather than outputs.
• Identify risks, anticipate challenges, and proactively implement mitigation strategies.

• Serve as a trusted advisor to client stakeholders, providing data‑driven recommendations on program and process improvements.
• Facilitate alignment across leadership, program offices, and cross‑functional stakeholders.
• Support the development of governance structures, decision frameworks, and operating charters.
• Enable faster, more disciplined decision‑making through standardized approaches (e.g., down‑selects, risk recalibration, transition readiness).

• Establish and implement performance measurement frameworks, including leading indicators (e.g., cycle time, throughput, decision velocity).
• Develop ROI and impact models to support investment decisions and future scaling efforts.
• Ensure pilots and initiatives are structured as evidence‑generating experiments with consistent evaluation criteria.
• Drive continuous improvement by capturing lessons learned and refining processes.

• Support the design and execution of engagement models with startups, academia, and emerging technology partners.
• Standardize approaches for technology evaluation, integration readiness, and vendor engagement.
• Help align innovation efforts with mission priorities and scalable delivery pathways.

• Lead and manage team members across projects, ensuring high‑quality delivery and professional growth.
• Take responsibility for onboarding new team members and accelerating time to productivity.
• Support professional development through regular feedback and career conversations.
• Manage team utilization across projects to ensure effective…