Senior Mission Manager (AI Defense)

TL;DR

Senior Mission Manager (AI Defense): Driving program-based adoption of AI technology within government program offices with an accent on technical narratives and mission value. Focus on scoping pilots, navigating budgeting cycles, and converting demonstrated value into funded programs.

Location: Remote (Must be a US Person with a current Top Secret US DoD or IC clearance)

Salary: $180,000 - $220,000 + equity

Company

A defense technology company building agentic AI designed to deter adversaries and support decision-makers on the front lines.

What you will do

• Lead engagements with government program offices (PEOs, PMWs, PMOs) to identify mission-critical problems.
• Translate program requirements into technical narratives, mapping software capabilities to specific outcomes.
• Scope and shape program-based pilots, defining success criteria, timelines, and scaling pathways.
• Navigate budgeting cycles, contracting pathways, and stakeholder coordination to ensure program stability.
• Partner with product managers and engineers to ensure mission context informs technical scope and delivery.
• Convert successful pilots into sustained, funded programs for broader adoption.

Requirements

• U.S. Persons status with at least a current Top Secret US DoD or IC clearance.
• 15–20+ years of experience in government or defense missions (e.g., retired O5/O6, senior enlisted, or civilian equivalent).
• Deep expertise in domains such as cyber, information warfare, ISR, networks, or command and control.
• Proven ability to pitch and sell technical software solutions to senior government stakeholders.
• Strong understanding of programmatic realities, including budgets, authorities, and requirements development.
• Technical fluency in modern software systems and agent-based AI approaches.

Nice to have

• Experience in acquisition, resource sponsorship, or direct program management.

Culture & Benefits

• Competitive salary with equity and 401(k) match.
• Remote-friendly work environment with WeWork access.
• Unlimited PTO, shared downtime during federal holidays, and year-end company-wide off time.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Lifestyle and wellbeing stipends, plus fully paid parental leave.
• Salary top-up during military reserve duty and child/pet care reimbursement during travel.