Program Manager Contract Jobs in Saugus, MA (NOW HIRING)

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Applied Research Solutions (ARS) is respected as a world-class provider of technically integrated solutions as we deliver premier talent and technology across our focused markets for unparalleled, continuous mission support. Awarded a Best Places to Work nominee since 2020, ARS recognizes that without our career- driven, loyal professionals, we would not be able to deliver state-of-the-art results for our mission partners. We firmly believe that prioritizing our employees is of the upmost importance. We provide a culture where our employees are challenged to meet their career goals and aspirations, while still obtaining a work/life balance. ARS employees are motivated through our industry competitive benefits package, our awards and recognition program, and personalized attention from ARS Senior Managers. 

Acquisition Program Management Lead (On-Site)

Support a high-visibility Air Force front office organization by leading acquisition and program management activities across multiple mission-critical efforts. Serve as a key advisor and task lead supporting senior Air Force leadership, ensuring acquisition objectives, program execution, and strategic priorities are aligned with Department of the Air Force and DoD directives.

Acquisition & Program Management

• Lead and manage acquisition-related program efforts throughout the program lifecycle, including planning, requirements development, execution, sustainment, and transition activities.
• Support Air Force acquisition initiatives in accordance with DoDI 5000 series guidance, Air Force acquisition policies, and applicable program management frameworks.
• Coordinate and monitor program execution activities to ensure cost, schedule, and performance objectives are achieved.

Front Office & Executive-Level Support

• Interface directly with high-level Air Force personnel, government leadership, program offices, and external stakeholders to support strategic acquisition initiatives and mission priorities.
• Prepare and present executive-level briefings, program updates, decision support materials, and status reports for senior leaders and front office leadership teams.
• Support leadership in prioritizing competing requirements, resolving programmatic issues, and driving strategic decision-making.

Task Lead & Team Oversight

• Serve as a task lead overseeing day-to-day activities of cross-functional teams supporting acquisition and program execution efforts.
• Provide supervisory-level leadership, mentorship, and direction to team members while ensuring alignment with organizational objectives and customer expectations.
• Coordinate workload distribution, monitor deliverables, and ensure timely completion of assigned tasks and action items.

Program Planning & Execution

• Develop and maintain integrated program schedules, acquisition documentation, milestone planning activities, and execution strategies.
• Support planning and execution of acquisition phases including requirements analysis, systems engineering coordination, testing, fielding, and sustainment activities.
• Track program metrics and identify risks, dependencies, and resource constraints impacting program objectives.

Compliance, Risk Management & Contract Oversight

• Ensure compliance with Air Force, DoD, and federal acquisition regulations, policies, and governance processes.
• Identify and mitigate program risks related to schedule, cost, technical performance, and contract execution.
• Monitor contractor performance and coordinate with contracting, engineering, and program office personnel to ensure deliverables meet mission requirements.

Documentation & Reporting

• Prepare, review, and maintain acquisition and program management documentation including Acquisition Strategies, Program Management Reviews (PMRs), Systems Engineering Plans (SEPs), risk assessments, briefing packages, and executive correspondence.
• Provide detailed reporting and recommendations to senior Air Force leadership regarding program health, acquisition strategy, and operational impacts.

Additional Responsibilities

• Foster collaboration across government, military, and contractor teams in a dynamic Air Force operational environment.
• Support special projects, front office initiatives, and other duties as assigned.
• This position is fully on-site in support of Air Force mission operations.
• Will perform other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:

• Must be a U.S. Citizen
• Experience: Minimum of 10 years of program management experience, with at least 5 years specifically working within a Department of Defense (DoD) setting. 
• Security Clearance: Top-Secret security clearance is required. (May consider candidates with a current Secret clearance)

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., Engineering, Business, Management) required. Advanced degree (e.g., Master’s in Program Management or Engineering) is highly preferred.

• Air Force Specific Experience: Direct experience supporting Air Force programs and familiarity with Air Force-specific processes, requirements, and stakeholders.

• Program Management Tools: Proficiency with program management tools and software (e.g., MS Project, Primavera, Earned Value Management Systems).

• Leadership & Communication: Strong leadership, interpersonal, and communication skills. Ability to interact effectively with senior military officials, government personnel, and contractors.

• Problem-Solving: Ability to identify complex program issues and develop innovative solutions to ensure program success.

The annual salary range: $170k - $184k. Salary is dependent upon the role and associated responsibilities, candidate's experience, and qualifications to include education/training, and key skills.

All positions at Applied Research Solutions are subject to background investigations. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background investigation, including criminal history and identity check.

Must abide by the requirements of 41 CFR 60-741.5(a).  This regulation prohibits discrimination against qualified individuals on the basis of disability and requires affirmative action by covered prime contractors and subcontractors to employ and advance in employment qualified individuals with disabilities.

Must abide by the requirements of 41 CFR 60-300.5(a).  This regulation prohibits discrimination against qualified protected veterans and requires affirmative action by covered contractors and subcontractors to employ and advance in employment qualified protected veterans.