Description
Leads a portfolio of complex, high-impact federal technology projects that connect advanced manufacturing and data-driven systems with defense and federal applications. This role operates with a high level of independence and is accountable for program delivery across cost, schedule, performance, and compliance requirements.
Navigates the operational and regulatory complexities of federal and defense programs while supporting business development and funding capture efforts. Serves as the primary program-level point of contact for federal agency stakeholders, ensuring clear communication, disciplined execution, and adherence to contractual obligations.
Develops and executes program strategies aligned with SME’s broader technology objectives. Leads cross-functional teams composed of SME staff and external partners to deliver measurable results and maintain strong federal customer relationships.
MAJOR FUNCTIONS:
- Oversee a diverse portfolio of defense and federal projects from concept development through funded execution and deployment, with accountability for alignment to federal program requirements.
- Contribute to the expansion of SME’s federal technology portfolio by identifying funding opportunities, leading technical proposal development, and supporting capture efforts that result in new federal awards.
- Lead cross-functional and multi-organization teams in execution of federal programs, coordinating contributors across SME and external partners to achieve program objectives.
- Demonstrate to the government that SME is a trusted partner able to deliver through exhibiting strong program management.
- Apply industry-standard methodologies to track and report on project health, ensuring all deliverables are met on time and within budget.
- Keep customer stakeholders, team members, and SME leadership informed on progress.
- Proactively identify program risks, developing robust mitigation strategies to prevent program slippage.
- Engage with federal agency stakeholders to understand needs and requirements.
- Raise awareness of SME’s solutions and unique capabilities with potential federal customers.
- Serve as the technical lead for high-priority proposal capture overseeing the development of technical proposals to include technical approach, data management, work breakdown structures (WBS), schedules, program management plan, etc.
- Work with proposal writers, financial management, and contract managers.
- Develop compelling "Value Propositions" and High "Probability-of-Win" strategies.
- Leverage deep knowledge of advanced manufacturing technologies and enterprise data systems
- Act as the lead spokesperson for the program, delivering high-impact briefings to military stakeholders and partners.
- Identify strategic industry, academic, and non-profit partners and create frameworks for agreements with industry, academic, and non-profit partners.
- Lead multi-disciplinary teams including engineers, supply chain specialists, and contract officers to achieve unified project goals.
- Work with IT to ensure program’s adherence to Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) standards and NIST SP 800-171 requirements. Ensure procedures are followed to ensure protection of Federal Contract Information, Controlled Unclassified Information, and export controls.
- Other duties as assigned.
Requirements
MINIMUM EDUCATION, SKILL, AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:
- Bachelor’s degree in engineering, business, or a relevant field (Master’s or MBA preferred).
- At least 8 years of program management or military experience, including experience in the defense or aerospace sector
- Demonstrated experience managing the technical efforts under federal contracts, including FAR-based and non-FAR based (e.g., Other Transaction Authority (OTA)) agreements.
- Strong interpersonal and organizational skills, with demonstrated customer service orientation
- Proven ability to plan, organize, and lead multiple projects with accountability for deliverables, timelines and budgets.
- Experience developing and leading technical proposals, including work breakdown structures (WBS), schedules and program management plans.
- Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and interact professionally with members, partners and stakeholders.
- Strong business planning capability, including budget development, cost analysis, financial forecasting, and alignment of program execution with organizational revenue objectives
- Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively, including with executive leadership and federal stakeholders.
- Exceptional public speaking skills and a proven track record of writing high-quality technical proposals, white papers, and executive reports.
- Knowledge of manufacturing processes (e.g., additive manufacturing, precision machining, robotics & automation, biomanufacturing, or digital manufacturing) and enterprise data systems (e.g., PLM, ERP, MES, or AI-driven analytics).
- PMP (Project Management Professional) or DAU (Defense Acquisition University) certification is highly desirable.
- Knowledge of technology and industry market trends and conditions preferred
KEY COMPETENCIES:
Core Competencies
- Communication and Collaboration
- Relationship Management
- Professionalism and Integrity
- Critical Thinking and Decision-Making
- Execution
- Initiative, Leadership, and Development
Job Competencies
- Federal Program Leadership and Compliance Management
- Technical Proposal Development and Capture Support
- Business Planning and Financial Acumen
- Program Accountability and Financial Discipline
- Federal Stakeholder Engagement and Influence
- Risk Assessment and Mitigation Planning
- Advanced Manufacturing and Digital Systems Fluency
WORKING CONDITIONS:
- Normal office environment
- Regular, in-person attendance required
- Primary office location: Southfield, MI
- Travel required (at least 25%)
Summary
POSITION TITLE: Senior Program Manager, Federal Technologies
GROUP: Technical Activities
FLSA CLASSIFICATION: Exempt
SME is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and veteran status. Applicants must reside in the United States and be legally authorized to work in the U.S. without the need for sponsorship.
The salary range for this position is $156,000 - $194,000 per year, based on experience and qualifications. Offers typically fall within this range based on individual qualifications and budget availability. In addition to base salary, SME offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, 403(b) with company matching, generous paid time off and holidays, professional development and training opportunities, and additional wellness and work-life balance benefits. Certain positions may also be eligible for bonus/incentive compensation, subject to role and company policies.
SME is currently unable to hire employees residing in California, Colorado, Oregon, or Washington.