Program Manager - job 1 of 3

As a Program Manager at Agile Defense, you will be responsible for managing the day-to-day operational aspects of projects, ensuring that they align with the strategic goals of senior government leaders. You will develop project schedules, engage stakeholders, and create innovative communications for key messages. Your role will also include providing coaching on project and change management, facilitating strategic planning, and utilizing Smartsheet for effective work management solutions.

To be a strong candidate for the Program Manager role at Agile Defense, you should have a Project Management Professional (PMP) certification or be willing to obtain it within 60 days of joining. You will also need a BS/BA degree and 5-7 years of experience in project and change management, along with 2+ years of experience in internal communications. Exceptional communication skills and a detail-oriented mindset are crucial for success in this position.

While prior experience with Smartsheet is a preferred qualification, it is not absolutely necessary. However, the ability to create sheets, dashboards, and automated workflows in Smartsheet will give you an edge in managing projects effectively. If you have strong analytical skills and a willingness to learn, we encourage you to apply!

Yes! The Program Manager position at Agile Defense is entirely remote, allowing you to work from the comfort of your own home or any location you choose. You will have the flexibility to balance your professional responsibilities with your personal life while contributing to important national security projects.

The salary range for the Program Manager role at Agile Defense is competitive, falling between $90,000 and $110,000 annually. Your specific compensation may depend on your qualifications, experience, and the value you bring to our team.

When discussing your experience with project management methodologies, focus on any specific frameworks you've worked with, such as Agile or Waterfall. Share examples of how you have effectively applied these methodologies to manage successful projects, and highlight your PMP certification if you have one, as it demonstrates a commitment to best practices in project management.

When asked about prioritizing tasks, you might explain how you use methods like Eisenhower Matrix or Kanban boards to distinguish between urgent and important tasks. Provide examples of how you have effectively managed competing priorities in the past, demonstrating your organizational skills and ability to deliver results.

When answering this question, narrate a specific project with details on the challenges faced—such as tight deadlines or resource limitations—and the strategies you implemented to overcome those challenges. Emphasize your problem-solving skills and the successful outcomes achieved.

Discuss your strategies for stakeholder engagement by mentioning your focus on regular updates, transparent communication channels, and adaptability to cater to the needs of various stakeholders. Provide examples where clear communication made a significant difference in project success.

Mention the project management tools you're proficient in, such as Smartsheet, Trello, or Microsoft Project. Describe how you have used these tools to enhance project visibility and streamline workflows, demonstrating your ability to utilize technology effectively in managing projects.

In your response, outline the key performance indicators (KPIs) you typically use to assess project success, such as meeting deadlines, staying within budget, and achieving stakeholder satisfaction. Share a specific example of a project where you successfully measured and reported on success metrics.

When discussing your experience with senior executive leaders, focus on your ability to communicate complex information clearly and effectively. Illustrate how you have built relationships and collaborated on strategic initiatives, ensuring alignment and buy-in from leadership.

Talk about your understanding of change management principles, particularly the ADKAR model if applicable. Describe how you prepare stakeholders for changes and guide them through the transition process. Share any specific methodologies you've applied in previous roles.

Here, you can express the importance of conflict resolution and effective communication. Share specific techniques you use to address disagreements, such as active listening, seeking common ground, and facilitating open discussions to maintain team cohesion.

In your answer, express your passion for project management and how you are driven by achieving successful outcomes, improving processes, and leading teams to overcome challenges. Highlight any specific aspects of project management that inspire you or relevant experiences that have shaped your motivation.