ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Federal Programs Director Jobs in Washington, DC

WSP

Federal Programs Army Project Director

Arlington, VA · On-site

$190.20 - $293.90/hr

The Federal Programs Army Project Director for the Mid-Atlantic/Northeast region , will primarily focus on executing A-E services under Army contracts, but also work with the Army Portfolio Lead to ...

Unissant

Director, Federal IT Programs

Herndon, VA · On-site

$151K - $243K/yr

Director, Federal IT ProgramsUnissant is seeking a Director, Federal IT Programs to join the team in support of a specific Federal IT services account. This leader will provide account-level ...

UNISSANT

Director, Federal IT Programs

Bethesda, MD · On-site

Director, Federal IT Programs Unissant is seeking a Director, Federal IT Programs to join the team in support of a specific Federal IT services account. This leader will provide account-level ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsFederal Programs JobsFederal Programs Director JobsFederal Programs Director Jobs in Washington, DC

Federal Programs Director information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Federal Programs Director?

To thrive as a Federal Programs Director, you need expertise in program management, regulatory compliance, budgeting, and a relevant degree (often in public administration, education, or a related field). Familiarity with federal grant management systems, data analysis tools, and sometimes certifications like PMP are typically required. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills are essential for building consensus and navigating complex stakeholder environments. These skills ensure effective oversight, regulatory adherence, and the successful delivery of federally funded initiatives.

How does a Federal Programs Director typically collaborate with other departments or agencies?

A Federal Programs Director regularly works with internal teams such as finance, compliance, and human resources, as well as external partners like state agencies, local governments, and federal authorities. Collaboration often involves coordinating program implementation, ensuring regulatory compliance, and aligning objectives across multiple stakeholders. Effective communication and relationship-building skills are essential for managing cross-functional projects and addressing challenges that arise during program execution.

What is the difference between Federal Programs Director vs Grant Coordinator?

AspectFederal Programs DirectorGrant Coordinator
CredentialsBachelor's degree often in public administration, social sciences, or related fields; experience in federal programsBachelor's degree in related fields; experience in grant management or administration
Work EnvironmentLeads federal program initiatives, manages teams, and oversees complianceAssists in grant application processes, monitors grant activities, and reports
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, non-profits, educational institutionsNon-profits, educational institutions, government offices

The Federal Programs Director and Grant Coordinator roles both involve working with federal funding, but the Director typically oversees entire programs and manages teams, while the Coordinator focuses on grant administration and compliance. The Director has broader responsibilities and strategic oversight, whereas the Coordinator handles day-to-day grant activities.

What does a Federal Programs Director do?

A Federal Programs Director oversees the planning, implementation, and management of federally funded programs within an organization, such as a school district, government agency, or nonprofit. Their responsibilities include ensuring compliance with federal regulations, managing budgets, preparing reports, and coordinating with internal teams and external partners. They play a key role in securing funding, monitoring program effectiveness, and making sure that program objectives are met. The role often requires strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills.
What are popular job titles related to Federal Programs Director jobs in Washington, DC? For Federal Programs Director jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Federal Programs Director jobs in Washington, DC look for? The top searched job categories for Federal Programs Director jobs in Washington, DC are:
Federal Programs Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Federal Programs Director job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 72% In-person, 14% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution.

Senior Director, Federal Programs

The Chronicle Of Higher Education, Inc.

Chantilly, VA • On-site

$120 - $160/hr

Other

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

About the Position

The Senior Director, Federal Programs provides strategic leadership, operational oversight, and business development direction for CPE’s involvement in Mason Defense’s federal portfolio. This position is responsible for building and managing a sustainable pipeline of federal opportunities, overseeing execution of complex federal programs, and coordinating multi-disciplinary matrixed teams across the university. The Senior Director ensures that all programs align with university policies, federal regulations, and the strategic priorities of Mason Defense and CPE.

Responsibilities Program Leadership and Oversight
  • Lead execution and oversight of federally funded programs within CPE;
  • Establish program plans, milestones, internal controls, and performance metrics;
  • Manage program risks, resources, deliverables, and reporting requirements;
  • Ensure high-quality program performance in accordance with federal and university standards.
Federal Business Development and Pipeline Growth
  • Develop and execute a strategic plan to build a pipeline of new opportunities with DoD, Intelligence Community, DHS, and other federal sponsors;
  • Lead capture planning, partner engagement, and proposal development;
  • Maintain relationships with government sponsors, prime contractors, industry partners, and research collaborators;
  • Identify emerging federal needs and align opportunities with university expertise.
Matrixed Team Leadership and Cross-Campus Coordination
  • Coordinate multi-disciplinary teams involving faculty, researchers, administrative staff, and technical experts;
  • Facilitate cross-campus collaboration to assemble competitive teams and capabilities;
  • Ensure effective communication and alignment across colleges, institutes, and centers.
Compliance, Contracts, and Sponsor Engagement
  • Ensure compliance with FAR, DFARS, OMB Uniform Guidance, agency-specific regulations, and GMU policies;
  • Support audits, sponsor reviews, and contract oversight;
  • Serve as primary point of contact for federal sponsors and external partners;
  • Provide briefings, reports, and strategic updates to university leadership.
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree in Public Policy, Business Administration, Engineering, Defense Studies, Project/Program Management, or related field or the equivalent combination of education and experience;
  • Progressively responsible experience (typically 10+ years) in federal program management, defense initiatives, or large-scale sponsored research;
  • Demonstrated experience building and managing a federal business development pipeline;
  • Strong knowledge of federal acquisition processes, FAR/DFARS, and sponsored research compliance;
  • Proven ability to lead and influence matrixed teams across diverse academic and technical disciplines;
  • Excellent communication, organizational, and leadership skills;
  • U.S. citizenship required;
  • Active Top Secret (with a preference for SCI) or the ability to maintain a US security clearance is required.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Master’s degree in related field;
  • Experience working with DoD, DHS, IC agencies, or federal R&D organizations;
  • Experience managing multi‑million‑dollar federal portfolios;
  • Demonstrated experience in leadership within higher education, federally funded research, or national security initiatives.
Equity Statement

George Mason University is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, committed to promoting inclusion and equity in its community. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any characteristic protected by law.

#J-18808-Ljbffr

Apply