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Navy Program Manager/Client Lead/Advisor

NSS
Washington, DC Full Time
POSTED ON 12/12/2025 CLOSED ON 2/11/2026

What are the responsibilities and job description for the Navy Program Manager/Client Lead/Advisor position at NSS?

Do you offer extensive NAVY experience tied to shipbuilding, modernization, engineering, power/energy, or a major surface ship program? We are looking for a strong Program Manager/Client Lead to brief senior leaders effectively, lead multi-disciplinary teams, mentor junior staff, and exhibit humility, steadiness, and mission-first values. You will be THE primary client-facing lead for a major NAVSEA or PEO program. (We have contractor performance and program finance covered, so you can really focus on the client! This is a true CLIENT ADVISOR opportunity). This is a high visibility role, also involved in science and technology, offering both local and international reach from DC to overseas and back to the White House, where key decisions are made. You will work 100% onsite at the Navy Yard in Washington, DC (non-remote opportunity). The IDEAL candidate will have experience in ALL the following: Either Large Surface Combatants (CG, DDG) OR Small Surface Combatants (LCS, FFG) experience. (SWO(N) with CVN experience required at a minimum).Particular expertise regarding Cruisers and Destroyers. You are deeply familiar with Navy acquisition, systems engineering, requirements, budgeting, and ship design/modernization.You will also have gained acquisition and program management experience either during active duty (NAVSEA, PEO Ships/IWS/USC, OPNAV N9/N96, ASN(RD&A) or post-transitioning, serving through a reputable consulting or government contracting firm. More Specifics on the Day to Day Areas of Your Focus: • Surface Combatants:DDG(X), DDG 1000, DDG 51 new construction, DDG 51 modernization, CG modernization, FFG, LCS,   – Understanding of LM2500, electric plant, energy storage concepts.• Acquisition & Requirements:  – Experience generating or reviewing SEPs, TEMPs, acquisition strategies, readiness reviews.  – Experience with JCIDS, PPBE, POM cycles, budget exhibits (P-forms).• Program Execution:  – Multi-FTE team leadership  – Scope, schedule, risk, deliverables management  – Contract reviews and IPT participation• Technical Comprehension:  – Ship design drivers  – Power & energy fundamentals  – Systems engineering flows  – Test & evaluation basics• Financial Literacy:  – Working knowledge of POM, PBIS/NEPS, budget submissions.  – Ability to discuss the cost implications of design trades.Requirements:• Former U.S. Navy Surface Warfare Officer (SWO).  • Strong preference for U.S. Naval Academy graduates (Engineering, Physics, CS, STEM; Economics secondary). ROTC with technical degrees also welcome.• Experience at NAVSEA, affiliated PEOs, OPNAV N9, ASN(RD&A), or similar.• 10–20 years combined military civilian experience.  • Demonstrated understanding of DoD 5000-series, JCIDS, PPBE, ACAT I/II programs, Navy shipbuilding or modernization.• Clearance: Active Secret; Top Secret preferred.• Open to International Travel 1-3 times a year.• Able to work onsite full time at the Navy Yard in Washington, DC. This NOT a remote position. Personal Qualities:• Executive presence without ego; comfortable with senior leaders, no need to “perform.”  • Strong translator skills between engineering, budget, acquisition, and fleet needs.  • Ownership mindset; reliable, calm, steady, and mission-focused.  • Humility, integrity, and respect for the Navy teams we support.

Salary : $99,000 - $225,000

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