Senior Program Manager

As a Senior Program Manager at Parsons, you will plan, direct, and supervise all aspects of your assigned program, particularly providing Advisory & Assistance Services to USCYBERCOM. This includes developing budgets and schedules, executing project plans, negotiating changes and monitoring project performance. Success in this role involves not just managing resources but also engaging with clients to ensure all needs are met for project success.

To become a Senior Program Manager at Parsons, candidates must hold an active Top Secret/SCI security clearance and Project Management Professional (PMP) certification. A bachelor’s degree in an engineering or related technical/business field is also required, alongside at least 15 years of relevant work experience. Effective communication skills and a broad understanding of technical and business operations are essential for success in this role.

Parsons is committed to the professional growth of its employees. As a Senior Program Manager, you will have the opportunity to mentor subordinates, conduct performance reviews, and create development plans for your team. We encourage a culture of continuous learning and provide ample opportunities for training and advancement, making sure your career progresses in alignment with your personal and professional goals.

At Parsons, the work culture for a Senior Program Manager is collaborative and innovation-driven. You’ll be working with exceptional colleagues who share a passion for excellence and the mission of supporting government operations. We value diversity, individuality, and encourage a healthy work-life balance, providing you with the support you need to flourish both personally and professionally.

As a Senior Program Manager at Parsons, you can expect a robust benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, paid time off, a competitive 401(k) plan, an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), and flexible work schedules. We genuinely care about the wellbeing of our employees and provide best-in-class resources to help you thrive in the workplace.

To effectively manage project timelines and budgets, I prioritize using detailed project plans that outline all necessary tasks and milestones. I utilize project management tools to track progress and flag any potential issues early. Regular communication with team members and stakeholders ensures accountability and adjustment of plans as needed to stay within budget and on time.

In a previous role, I managed a project with a significantly tight deadline and limited resources. To address this challenge, I reorganized the project phases and delegated tasks based on team strengths, constantly monitoring progress and facilitating clear communication channels. The project was delivered on time, meeting all performance metrics and client expectations.

I find that establishing clear communication channels early on is instrumental in stakeholder management. Regular updates on project progress, combined with open feedback opportunities, help build trust and ensure all stakeholders remain aligned with the project goals. I also assess stakeholder needs and expectations to manage them proactively throughout the project lifecycle.

I take a proactive approach to risk management by identifying potential risks during the planning phase and creating mitigation strategies for each. I involve the project team in assessing risks continuously throughout the project lifecycle, ensuring that we remain prepared for any unexpected challenges that may arise.

I am adept in various project management tools, including Microsoft Project, Smartsheet, and Jira. I use these tools to create timelines, resource allocations, and monitor project performance metrics. Each tool has its strengths but choosing the right one often depends on the complexity and requirements of the specific project.

Leading teams in a project environment involves fostering collaboration, ensuring clear communication, and empowering team members. I encourage team input in decision-making and promote an environment of trust and openness where each member feels valued and motivated to contribute to the project’s success.

When conflict arises within a project team, I address it promptly by facilitating a discussion between the involved parties. I encourage them to express their views and work together to find common ground. Often, mediation helps clarify misunderstandings, and emphasizing our shared project goals helps refocus team efforts.

The most crucial skills for a Senior Program Manager include leadership abilities, excellent communication, a strong understanding of project management methodologies, and problem-solving skills. Additionally, the ability to adapt to changes and maintain composure under pressure is vital for success in this dynamic role.

Ensuring quality assurance begins with establishing clear quality standards during the planning stage. Throughout the project, I implement regular reviews and audits to monitor progress and compliance with quality requirements. Engaging the team in these processes not only encourages quality but also facilitates continuous improvement.

I believe my extensive experience in program management, my technical background, and my commitment to delivering results align perfectly with the expectations for the Senior Program Manager position at Parsons. I am passionate about leading teams to success, and the mission-driven culture here resonates deeply with my own professional values.