Project Manager, Operations Manager, Program ​/ Project Manager

The Project Manager (PM) is responsible for end-to-end execution, oversight, and delivery of the organization s obligations in support of defense programs. This role serves as the single accountable integrator across scope, schedule, budget, compliance, and stakeholder coordination, ensuring all work is executed within contract authority, aligned to mission needs, and supportive of re-compete objectives.

The PM operates in a prime-controlled government R&D environment and must demonstrate disciplined contract execution, strong sponsor engagement, and proactive risk management. The PM is responsible for translating strategic direction into structured execution, shaping vision, working models, and delivery standards.

1. Contract & Program Execution

• Lead day-to-day execution of all tasks and deliverables under the subcontract
• Ensure all work performed is within authorized scope, funding, and period of performance
• Serve as the primary company interface to the Prime Program Manager
• Translate client objectives into executable plans and measurable outcomes
• Manage contract execution within a T&M, incrementally funded structure
• Track labor hours, labor mix, and funding utilization against the contract ceiling
• Monitor burn rate
• Validate invoices for accuracy, allowability, and alignment with approved work
• Develop and maintain execution timelines for:
• Market assessment packages
• Reports and sponsor engagements
• Ensure monthly status reports are accurate, timely, and aligned with invoicing
• Coordinate preparation and submission of all required contract deliverables

4. Stakeholder & Sponsor Coordination

• Coordinate across mission partners
• Client leadership
• Client program and contracts staff
• Events
• Industry interactions
• Virtual briefings and webinars
• Maintain professional, disciplined communication consistent with government norms

5. Compliance & Governance

• Ensure compliance with all applicable FAR/DFARS flow-downs
• Data rights and marking requirements
• Records retention and audit readiness
• Enforce internal discipline around scope control, documentation, and approvals
• Identify, track, and mitigate programmatic, financial, and contractual risks
• Prevent scope creep and unauthorized work
• Elevate issues early to leadership with clear options and recommendations
• Prepare for and manage potential stop-work, funding delays, or termination scenarios

7. Resource Access & Operational Enablement

• Identify the expertise needed for the program and work collaboratively with leadership to secure appropriate staffing
• Support team members and subcontractors in meeting expectations for quality, timeliness, and follow‑through
• Address early signs of performance challenges promptly, providing guidance or adjustments as needed to keep the team on track
• Coordinate CAC sponsorship and access requests for program personnel as required
• Ensure personnel access aligns strictly with mission need and sponsor approval
• Coordinate with prime and government stakeholders on IT and facility access requirements

Education: Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (Master’s preferred)

Qualifications:

• 8+ years of experience managing government contracts or R&D programs
• Demonstrated experience managing Time & Materials (T&M) contracts
• Working knowledge of FAR/DFARS principles and government contracting norms
• Proven ability to manage multi-stakeholder programs in a prime-led environment
• Strong financial, organizational, and communication skills
• U.S. citizenship (required for CAC eligibility)

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience supporting AFRL, DoD labs, or R&D organizations
• Experience with ecosystem engagement, industry outreach, or innovation programs
• Familiarity with DIU, APEX, PMTEC, or similar defense innovation constructs
• Experience managing events, demonstrations, or technology showcases
• Prior CAC holder and familiarity with DoD access processes

Core Competencies

• Contract discipline and execution rigor
• Financial stewardship and burn-rate control
• Stakeholder management and sponsor credibility
• Risk anticipation and mitigation
• Clear written and verbal communication
• Ability to operate effectively in ambiguity and evolving mission environments

Work Environment / Other Information

Clearance: Not required at hire; eligibility for CAC required

Location: Hybrid (Honolulu, HI / Travel as Required)

• Health/Dental/Vision insurance coverage
• Short-Term and Long-Term Disability
• Retirement savings plan with employer match