Project Lead

About the role

As a Project Lead for the AF TENCAP HOPE 2.0 initiative, you will play a pivotal role in leading cross-functional teams to deliver advanced prototype solutions that meet the rapidly evolving needs of the United States Air Force. This high-visibility position requires a seasoned engineering leader with a proven track record in managing technically sophisticated teams and facilitating the end-to-end delivery of innovative solutions.

In this role, you will oversee the full lifecycle of discrete AF TENCAP projects, from initial concept through successful transition. Leveraging your project management expertise, you will lead workforce planning, scheduling, risk mitigation, and technical execution to ensure mission success. Project durations typically range from 6–18 months, with scope and complexity varying across efforts. Larger initiatives will require full‑time focus, while smaller projects may be managed concurrently, up to five at a time.

Your leadership will extend across a matrixed team of engineers, mission specialists, technical writers, cybersecurity experts, trainers, testers, and software developers. Beyond technical execution, you will serve as a vital interface between your team, AF TENCAP, and mission partners—translating complex technical objectives into actionable outcomes while ensuring alignment with organizational goals.

This position requires candidates to be capable of working onsite in Colorado Springs as needed to support project execution and engagement with stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Oversee cross-functional teams to deliver rapid prototypes, ensuring technical, schedule, cost, and financial performance align with project objectives.
• Manage projects from inception to transition, including scheduling, workforce utilization, risk management, and stakeholder engagement.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with AF TENCAP and mission partners, gathering requirements, aligning objectives, and ensuring mission goals are met.
• Translate complex technical concepts into clear, actionable information for non‑technical stakeholders to enable informed decision‑making.
• Work with PMO managers to confirm project alignment with contractual requirements, programmatic expectations, and AF TENCAP priorities.
• Prepare and deliver comprehensive monthly project updates, EACs, ETCs, and technical data packages to stakeholders on time and with accuracy.
• Identify emerging technologies and improved methodologies that enhance project execution and support TENCAP objectives.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• Active Top Secret security clearance with SCI eligibility.
• Bachelor’s degree with at least 15 years of experience supporting Department of Defense (DoD) or Intelligence Community (IC) projects.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience leading technical teams in a prototyping or innovative development environment.
• At least 3 years of experience in project, program, or task management, with demonstrated proficiency in managing risk and driving results.
• Proven ability to effectively manage matrixed and geographically dispersed teams across diverse functions.
• Project Management Certification (PMP) or equivalent credential.

Desired Qualifications

• Advanced Degree: A Master’s or Ph.D. in a relevant discipline.
• Agile Project Management: Experience applying Agile methodologies to manage dynamic project workflows.
• Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE): Familiarity with MBSE frameworks and digital tools such as Aras Innovator, Cameo, DOORS, and AF SIM.
• Software Development: Understanding of modern software development approaches, including DevSecOps practices.
• Technical and Financial Documentation: Proven ability to produce detailed cost analyses, risk mitigation strategies, and technical documentation both accurately and on time.

Pay

Target salary range: $160,001 - $200,000. The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors.