Program Manager

Program Manager - Government Contract Services

About Heartland Consulting Heartland Consulting is a Veteran-Owned Small Business (VOSB), Indian Small Business Economic Enterprise (ISBEE), and holder of a Top-Secret Facility Clearance (FCL). We specialize in providing high-quality consulting and support services to federal agencies, including the Department of Defense. Our team is dedicated to delivering mission-critical solutions with integrity, innovation, and a commitment to excellence. We are proud to support the U.S. Air Force in their operational needs and are seeking talented professionals to join our dynamic team at Ellsworth Air Force Base in South Dakota.

Job Title: Program Manager

Location: Ellsworth Air Force Base, South Dakota (On-site, full-time required; no remote or hybrid options)

Employment Type: Full-Time

Clearance: Ability to obtain and maintain a favorable background investigation (Secret clearance preferred or eligible)

Start Date: Contingent upon contract award (anticipated February 2026)

Position Overview As the Program Manager for our Travel Pay Processing Services contract with the Air Force Installation and Mission Support Center (AFIMSC) at Ellsworth AFB, you will lead a team of 37 Financial Services Technicians (FSTs) in delivering accurate and timely travel pay processing for Air Force personnel. This role is critical to ensuring compliance with performance standards, including processing an average of 25 vouchers per FST per day with high accuracy. You will oversee daily operations, training, and quality assurance while coordinating closely with government leadership. This is an on-site leadership position requiring full-time presence to address team and client needs effectively. Opportunities to oversee additional contracts may be available based on demonstrated performance.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide overall leadership and management for a team of Financial Services Technicians, ensuring the contract meets or exceeds all performance metrics (e.g., voucher processing volume, accuracy rates of at least 84%, and timeliness).
• Develop and manage the initial training program for new FSTs, evaluating progress monthly to ensure they achieve full proficiency within 120 business days.
• Monitor individual and team performance, providing corrective action plans to AFIMSC/FMFK leadership and the Contracting Officer Representative (COR) for any FSTs falling below standards.
• Adjust work schedules on a case-by-case basis in coordination with government leadership to accommodate training, workload fluctuations, or other needs.
• Ensure compliance with all contract requirements, including security protocols, data processing standards, and federal regulations (e.g., Defense Travel System, Joint Travel Regulations).
• Foster a collaborative environment with government stakeholders, addressing issues promptly and maintaining high levels of customer service for Air Force personnel.
• Manage overtime requirements as needed (estimated average of 1,396 hours annually across the team).
• Report on key performance indicators (KPIs) and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency and accuracy in travel pay processing.
• Oversee administrative tasks, including personnel management, resource allocation, and adherence to the Performance Work Statement (PWS).

Qualifications

Required:

• Minimum of one (1) year of experience in program management, with documented proof (e.g., resume references, certifications, or prior contracts).
• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Management, Finance, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• Strong leadership skills with experience managing teams in a fast-paced, metrics-driven environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and familiarity with financial or administrative software systems.
• Ability to pass a background check and obtain necessary clearances for working on a military installation.
• S. citizenship required.

Preferred:

• Experience in government contracting, DoD financial services, or travel pay processing (e.g., Defense Travel System - DTS, Joint Travel Regulations - JTR).
• Prior supervisory experience in clerical or administrative support roles, ideally in a federal or military setting.
• Knowledge of wage determinations and labor standards (e.g., Service Contract Act compliance for South Dakota).
• Certifications such as PMP (Project Management Professional), CDFM (Certified Defense Financial Manager), or similar.
• Experience working on Air Force or DoD contracts, with a track record of meeting performance thresholds.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications (aligned with federal wage standards; estimated range $70,000 - $90,000 annually, plus potential overtime).
• Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision insurance, 401(k) with matching, paid time off, and professional development opportunities.
• Opportunity to support vital U.S. Air Force missions in a stable, long-term contract environment (base year option year 6-month extension).
• A collaborative, mission-focused culture with room for growth, including potential oversight of multiple programs.
• Relocation assistance may be available for qualified candidates.

Heartland Consulting is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We encourage applications from veterans, individuals with disabilities, and underrepresented groups. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status.

How to Apply Please submit your resume, cover letter, and documentation of program management experience to careers@heartlandconsulting.com with the subject line "Program Manager - Ellsworth AFB Application." We will review applications on a rolling basis. For questions, contact our HR team at phone number.

Join Heartland Consulting and make a difference in supporting our nation's heroes!