Director of Technical Strategy & Modernization
About the role
i3 Defense Technical Services (DTS) is seeking a Director of Technical Strategy & Modernization to lead a major technology modernization effort for a Department of Defense customer at Redstone Arsenal, Alabama. This role goes beyond traditional program management. We need a strategic technology leader who can work confidently with SES leaders, General Officers, engineers, architects, developers, cybersecurity teams, and data professionals.
Responsibilities
- Build and execute modernization roadmaps aligned to mission goals.
- Advise senior government leaders on emerging technologies and digital transformation needs.
- Identify opportunities to enhance mission effectiveness through innovative solutions (AI, Gen AI, DevSecOps, Platform Engineering, Cloud, Data analytics and enterprise data strategies, Software Modernization, Application Transformation, etc).
- Drive Program Execution: Oversee development lifecycles and ensure delivery of complex technical initiatives. Set priorities, track metrics, manage risks, and coordinate across multiple workstreams. Ensure solutions meet mission, quality, and performance expectations.
- Lead and Develop High-Performing Teams: Build, mentor, and guide multidisciplinary engineering, cyber, and data teams. Ensure the right skills, staffing, and culture to support modernization objectives. Foster innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement.
- Champion Modern Engineering Practices: Promote best practices in Agile, DevSecOps, cloud, data, and platform engineering. Ensure architectures are scalable, secure, and aligned with mission needs. Drive adoption of modern tools, automation, and development approaches.
- Engage Executives and Grow Strategic Opportunities: Communicate complex technical topics in clear, mission-focused terms. Build trusted relationships across senior government stakeholders. Identify new requirements, shape future modernization initiatives, and support business growth.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree and a minimum of 21 years of progressively responsible experience leading complex technical programs and modernization initiatives.
- Master's degree may substitute for 3 years of experience. Doctorate may substitute for 6 years of experience.
- Extensive DoD and defense industry experience.
- Proven success leading large-scale modernization or digital transformation efforts.
- Deep understanding of AI/GenAI, DevSecOps, cloud, automation, data, cybersecurity, Zero Trust, and digital transformation frameworks.
- Strong track record building and leading technical teams.
- Experience managing complex programs with multiple stakeholders and vendors.
- Excellent communication and executive engagement skills.
- Active Secret clearance or higher.
- U.S. Citizenship.
Qualifications
- Relevant certifications (PMP, Agile, Cloud, Security, etc.)
Benefits
Regular i3 hours are 800 a.m. - 500 p.m. Monday-Friday, however, additional hours may be required on occasion. Regular and punctual attendance is required.
Pay
Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications.
Schedule
Regular full-time schedule.
Skills
- Strategic thinking
- Leadership
- Technical expertise
- Project management
- Team building
- Communication
- Executive engagement
- Modern engineering practices
- Technology modernization
- AI/GenAI
- DevSecOps
- Cloud
- Data analytics
- Security
- Zero Trust
- Digital transformation
Benefits
- Excellent insurance coverage
- 401(k) match
- Generous PTO
- Health and wellness incentives
- Tuition and certification reimbursement
- Opportunities to give back to the community through i3 Cares
Physical Demands
- Regular full-time schedule
- Stand, walk, handle or feel, reach with hands and arms, sit, climb or balance, stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl
- Lift and/or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds
- Close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus
Company Information
i3 Defense Technical Services (DTS) is a technically diverse, 100% team member owned business, headquartered in Huntsville, Alabama specializing in missile and aviation systems engineering and logistic services, electronic warfare and electromagnetic effects analysis, UAS system integration and flight operations, full lifecycle C5ISR engineering services, cybersecurity and IT/IA innovative solutions and virtual training, simulation & serious game development and implementation. We have established a broad offering of products and capabilities collectively providing decades of experience supporting the full complement of DoD military services, Missile Defense Agency, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, and a variety of other Government organizations and private industry customers.