Technical Program Manager

As a Technical Program Manager at DEFCON AI, you'll be responsible for leading the daily activities of a technical team, ensuring projects are delivered on time and within scope. You'll engage directly with government clients, facilitating communication and managing expectations. Your responsibilities will include overseeing project budgets and timelines while guiding your team in using advanced analytics to optimize complex systems. Collaboration is key, as you'll work alongside diverse teams of experts to build strategic direction and drive projects forward.

To succeed as a Technical Program Manager at Red Cell Partners, you will need outstanding leadership skills and experience in managing project costs, schedules, and performance. A strong technical background, particularly with regards to software development and Operations Research techniques, is highly desirable. Additionally, having familiarity with DoD processes, along with a Secret Clearance, is important for this role. Higher clearance levels, like TS/SCI, and certifications such as Project Management Professional can set you apart.

DEFCON AI is unique due to its focus on resilience through innovative technology solutions. As a Technical Program Manager here, you will have the opportunity to work with cutting-edge artificial intelligence and data analytics tools to tackle real-world challenges. The flat organizational structure allows for meaningful collaboration with leadership and other team members, offering you a chance to impact project directions significantly. Plus, the vibrant Omaha atmosphere is an added bonus!

Red Cell Partners is committed to the continuous growth of its employees, including Technical Program Managers. We offer opportunities for professional development and training, ensuring you stay current with industry trends and advancements. You’ll have access to resources that foster your skills and knowledge in project management and technical domains, which can immensely benefit your career trajectory within the company.

As a Technical Program Manager at Red Cell Partners, you can expect a competitive salary aligned with your experience, alongside a comprehensive benefits package that includes 100% employer-paid health insurance for you and your family. You'll enjoy unlimited PTO, 14 weeks of fully paid parental leave, and access to additional benefits such as a 401k plan and equity incentives. This focus on employee well-being ensures you can thrive both personally and professionally.

In interviews, it's important to convey a leadership style that promotes collaboration and empowerment. Explain how you adapt your approach to different team dynamics and focus on fostering an environment where team members feel valued and motivated to contribute their best work. Highlight specific examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past.

When answering this question, emphasize your strategy for prioritization based on project goals, timelines, and resource availability. Discuss tools or methodologies you use, like Agile or Scrum, to help in managing tasks effectively. Provide examples of how successful prioritization has contributed to the timely completion of projects.

Share a specific challenge you faced as a Technical Program Manager, detailing the context of the project and the obstacles encountered. Explain the steps you took to address the issues, highlighting your problem-solving skills. This will demonstrate your ability to maintain composure and find solutions under pressure.

In your response, detail your familiarity with the DoD's Planning, Programming, Budgeting, and Execution process. Discuss specific projects where you successfully navigated these processes and how this experience has shaped your approach to managing government-related projects.

Effective communication is crucial in managing expectations. Describe your approach to keeping stakeholders informed, including regular updates and feedback loops. Providing examples of how you facilitate open communication can illustrate your commitment to transparency and collaboration.

In your answer, mention specific project management tools you're adept at using, such as JIRA, Trello, or Microsoft Project. Discuss how these tools aid in tracking progress and how you utilize them to enhance team productivity and collaboration.

Focus on your change management strategies, such as evaluating the impact of scope changes on timelines and budgets. Describe how you communicate these changes with the team and stakeholders to ensure alignment and manage expectations effectively.

Highlight your proactive risk management approach by discussing how you identify potential risks in projects early on. Explain how you implement mitigation strategies and regular risk assessments throughout the project lifecycle to minimize impacts.

Motivation plays a big role in team success. Share strategies you use to inspire your team, such as recognizing achievements, nurturing their talents, and fostering an environment that encourages innovation. Discuss how your leadership style contributes to team enthusiasm and productivity.

Prior to the interview, research DEFCON AI's mission and technology offerings thoroughly. Your answer should reflect your knowledge of their tools and solutions tailored for resilient optimization. Express how this aligns with your passion for applying technology to solve complex problems.