Senior Mission Manager (AI)

TL;DR

Senior Mission Manager (AI): Driving program-based adoption of agentic AI technology within government program offices with an accent on scoping capabilities and converting mission value into funded programs. Focus on navigating programmatic realities, bridging the gap between mission needs and technical narratives, and leading engagements with PEOs and PMWs.

Location: Washington, DC. U.S. Persons status and current Top Secret US DoD or IC clearance are required.

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

Company

Defense technology company building AI to deter adversaries and compete with global threats in the Indo-Pacific.

What you will do

• Lead engagements with program offices (PEOs, PMWs, PMOs) to identify mission-critical problems for AI solutions.
• Translate government needs into technical narratives, mapping agent-based capabilities to requirements and outcomes.
• Scope and shape program-based pilots, defining objectives, success criteria, and pathways to scale.
• Pitch technical solutions to senior government stakeholders leveraging domain expertise.
• Navigate budgeting cycles, contracting pathways, and stakeholder coordination.
• Partner with product and engineering teams to ensure mission context is reflected in technical delivery plans.

Requirements

• 15–20+ years of experience in government or defense missions (typically retired O5/O6, senior enlisted, or civilian equivalent).
• U.S. Persons status with a current Top Secret US DoD or IC clearance.
• Deep expertise in cyber, information warfare, ISR, networks, operational intelligence, or warfare systems/C2.
• Ability to connect mission needs to software capabilities and pitch them to senior stakeholders.
• Proven experience navigating government budgets, requirements, and authorities.
• Technical fluency in modern software systems and agent-based AI approaches.

Nice to have

• Experience in acquisition, resource sponsorship, or as a program manager.

Culture & Benefits

• Competitive salary and equity package.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Remote friendly environment with WeWork access.
• Unlimited PTO, shared federal holiday downtime, and company-wide end-of-year off time.
• 401(k) match and lifestyle/wellbeing stipends.
• Fully paid parental leave and salary top-up during military reserve duty.