About the role
- Lead DoD R&D programs from award through design, prototyping, demonstration, and commercialization/transition
- Translate DOD objectives and execute against awarded proposal, Statement of Work, and contract deliverables
- Guide teams in addressing ambiguous or evolving requirements and shape executable solutions
- Ensure disciplined application of systems engineering processes including CONOPS, requirements deconstruction, and RVTM
- Develop and manage project plans, schedules, budgets, and IMP/IMS
- Drive iterative design and risk reduction cycles across sensing, autonomy, platforms, and effectors
- Oversee development and integration of resilient software and hardware systems with government interfaces and standards
- Support technical demonstrations, lab and field testing, and integration with external performers
- Manage compliance with security, classified materials handling, and OPSEC requirements
- Serve as primary interface with DoD PMs, technical monitors, and transition stakeholders; participate in government working groups and IPTs
- Manage subcontractors, suppliers, and academic partners to ensure programmatic and technical performance
- Develop and maintain program risk registers and proactively mitigate technical and programmatic risks
- Provide detailed financial reporting, variance analysis, PMRs, QPRs, CDRLs, and stakeholder briefings to DoD and senior leadership
- Partner with commercialization experts and BD teams to embed transition strategies and support technology-as-a-service models
- Contribute to proposals and capture activities ensuring technical credibility and programmatic rigor
Requirements
- This role requires U.S. Person status (U.S. citizen, legal permanent resident, or certain asylees/refugees)
- Bachelor’s degree in engineering, computer science, physics, or related technical field (Master’s or PhD preferred)
- 7–10+ years of progressive program management experience with DoD R&D or advanced autonomy programs
- Proven success managing multi-disciplinary teams across hardware, software, and systems integration
- Familiarity with DoD program processes (BAAs, abstracts, orals, PI meetings, milestones, interface standards)
- Experience with OTAs (Other Transactional Authorities) and FAR-based contracts
- Active Secret clearance required (TS/SCI strongly preferred)
- Prior direct engagement with DoD R&D PMs and performers (preferred)
- Technical experience in autonomy, AI/ML, advanced sensing, or maritime/defense systems (preferred)
- PMP or DAWIA certification (preferred)
- Experience in startups or high-growth companies delivering to DoD customers (preferred)
- Ability to operate in DoD iterative, high-risk/high-payoff environment; strong technical fluency and executive-level communication skills
- Medical Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance plans covering a range of services
- Saronic pays 100% of the premium for employees and 80% for dependents
- Dental and Vision Insurance: Coverage for routine dental check-ups, orthodontics, and vision care
- Saronic pays 99% of the premium for employees and 80% for dependents
- Time Off: Generous PTO and Holidays
- Parental Leave: Paid maternity and paternity leave to support new parents
- Competitive Salary: Industry-standard salaries with opportunities for performance-based bonuses
- Retirement Plan: 401(k) plan
- Stock Options: Equity options to give employees a stake in the company’s success
- Life and Disability Insurance: Basic life insurance and short- and long-term disability coverage
- Additional Perks: Free lunch benefit and unlimited free drinks and snacks in the office
ATS Keywords
Tip: use these terms in your resume and cover letter to boost ATS matches.
Hard skills
program managementsystems engineeringrequirements deconstructionrisk managementsoftware developmenthardware integrationfinancial reportingvariance analysistechnical demonstrationsautonomy
Soft skills
leadershipcommunicationteam managementproblem-solvingstakeholder engagementstrategic planningadaptabilitycollaborationtechnical fluencyexecutive communication
Certifications
PMPDAWIAactive Secret clearanceTS/SCI clearance