Project & Operations Lead

About AVA Technologies:

AVA Technologies Global Corp., founded in October 2023, is a Veteran-Owned Small Business that has proven that financial success is a byproduct of customer focus demonstrated value. As such, AVA Technologies is committed to developing the foundational technology needed to propel the continuous advancement of networked, autonomous & synchronized effects needed to deter and overcome adversarial capabilities.

AVA has over 80 combined years of experience developing, integrating & operationally deploying defense platforms for use across US, joint, coalition & partner networks and platforms. We specialize in developing cloud-native, cross-platform, system-of-systems software applications that enable us to deliver differentiated products that are rapidly deployable across echelons & warfighting functions throughout the Department of War (DoW).

About the Role:

We are seeking a Project and Operations Lead who will lead complex, cross-functional programs supporting AVA Technologies operations and critical Department of War (DoW) missions. You will be the connective tissue between operations, engineering and leadership — supporting delivery, mitigating risks, and ensuring that AVA’s technology reaches the field effectively and efficiently. The ideal candidate combines personal accountability, program execution experience, and a mission-driven mindset to lead teams building and deploying software systems that directly support national security objectives.

We’ll admit it — we’re a bit old-school when it comes to collaboration. This role is based at AVA Technologies’ Headquarters in Southern Pines, NC, where ideas move faster when you’re side by side with the team. Expect to be in the office five days a week, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM, working with teammates pushing the limits of defense innovation.

Relocation assistance is available for those ready to make the move and join the AVA team.

What You’ll Do:

• Own Program Execution: Proactively drive operations and program outcomes — not just report on them — ensuring accountability, on-time delivery, and impact.
• Plan & Deliver: Develop reliable program timelines, identify key dependencies, and coordinate resources across engineering, product management, and operations.
• Progress Tracking & Reporting: Establish clear metrics and visibility into program milestones; deliver concise updates to internal and DoW stakeholders.
• Risk & Issue Management: Identify, track, and resolve program risks related to cost, schedule, and resources before they impact delivery.
• Cross-Functional Leadership: Bridge technical and non-technical disciplines — collaborating with engineers, product managers, and defense customers.
• Continuous Improvement: Implement and evolve efficient program management practices tailored for agile, mission-focused defense software development.
• Customer Engagement: Represent AVA in communications with defense partners, demonstrating both technical understanding and operational empathy.
• Strategic Alignment: Ensure that program activities and technical roadmaps align with AVA’s corporate goals and customer mission objectives.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Management, Operations, or a related technical field.
• 4 years of experience managing complex technical programs or engineering projects — preferably within defense, aerospace, or autonomous systems domains.
• Proven ability to lead through influence, manage ambiguity, thrive in chaos, and build cross-functional collaboration.
• Demonstrated proficiency in program planning, milestone tracking, and risk mitigation.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills across technical and executive audiences.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational capabilities; adept at managing multiple concurrent initiatives.
• Familiarity with agile and iterative development methodologies.
• U.S. citizenship with eligibility to obtain and maintain a Top Secret clearance (Active clearance preferred).

Bonus Points:

• Master’s degree in Systems Engineering, Management, or a related technical field.
• Experience leading software or systems development programs supporting the U.S. DoW or related communities.
• Familiarity with DoD acquisition processes, program baselines, and contract execution (e.g., SOW, CDRLs, Earned Value).
• Hands-on familiarity with software development life cycles, integration testing, or system verification.
• Experience using JIRA, Confluence, or Azure DevOps for agile project and backlog management.
• Certifications such as PMP, SAFe, or Agile Scrum Master.
• Experience with CMMC, NIST 800-171, or Risk Management Framework/Authority To Operate processes.
• Active Top Secret clearance strongly preferred.

Travel:

• This position will require regular travel (between 15 - 25%) to support program reviews, customer engagements, and test or fielding events. Travel frequency will vary based on program requirements.

Benefits:

At AVA Technologies, we take care of the people who power our mission. Full-time team members enjoy a competitive and well-rounded benefits package that supports both professional growth and personal well-being:

• Performance-based pay that reflects your experience, contributions, and impact.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage through Blue Cross Blue Shield.
• Life insurance for added peace of mind.
• Remote work flexibility (as role and mission allow).
• 401(k) retirement savings plan with both Traditional and Roth options.
• Education and certification assistance to help you advance your skills and career.
• Generous PTO and holidays, including a December holiday hiatus to recharge.
• Professional development and certification reimbursement to fuel continuous learning.