Senior Program Manager - NAVY

SMX is seeking a Program Director/Senior Program Manager to lead a high-impact technology program for NAVAIR. This role will oversee the full program lifecycle, including research, planning, design, engineering, prototype and software development, integration, testing, installation, and recommendations for advanced technology solutions based on thorough analyses and market research. The ideal candidate will possess deep expertise in technical program management, specifically in computer systems engineering and communication architecture analysis and design. This hybrid role is located in the Patuxent River, MD area, with work conducted at SMX offices, client sites, and remotely.

Required clearance: Active Top Secret with SCI Eligibility

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Oversee and coordinate priorities and resources across multiple projects to ensure timely, on-budget completion
• Allocate resources effectively and utilize corporate quality processes to track project schedules, costs, and deliverables
• Prepare and deliver project documentation, track program metrics, implement lessons learned, and ensure continuous improvement in production and quality for assigned programs
• Lead operational planning, execution, and evaluation of multifaceted programs, collaborating with customers to identify new opportunities
• Ensure contract service, quality, and performance standards are met and maintain compliance with standard operating procedures (SOP)
• Identify and pursue additional workshare and growth opportunities within existing and emerging contracts and markets
• Shape and support prime contractor and subcontractor opportunities, leveraging established relationships within the Navy
• Cultivate relationships with Navy customers, stakeholders, and key influencers; demonstrate the ability to foster new partnerships
• Lead briefings and presentations to senior government and industry acquisition officials
• Develop and execute Navy business development strategies, including market alignment, pipeline development, opportunity management, and proposal support
• Leverage a deep mission understanding of Navy customer needs in Cloud, Cyber, Digital Modernization, Data, and Systems Engineering & Integration

Required Skills & Experience

• Active TS/SCI security clearance
• Bachelor's degree and a minimum of 15 years of related experience in the DoD market
• Demonstrated success in government contracting, with significant experience in customer-facing roles (DoD preferred)
• Previous experience in computer systems engineering and architecture analysis/design
• Proven experience in budget management and execution
• Experience briefing senior government and industry leaders on program, technology, and financial matters
• Track record leading large, complex contracts involving development, production, and fielding of technical platforms and initiatives
• Excellent communication and presentation skills; ability to convey complex information clearly and confidently
• Strong organizational skills, proactive mindset, and a drive for results
• Experience contributing to proposals and the RFI, RFQ, or RFP processes
• In-depth knowledge of the Navy market's competitive landscape and existing contracts
• Proven ability to work both creatively and analytically in a problem-solving environment, demonstrating teamwork, innovation, and a commitment to excellence