Program Manager

To qualify for the Program Manager position at Strategic Data Systems, candidates must possess a DOD Secret Security Clearance and have at least 10 years of program management experience. Additionally, a Master's degree from an accredited university is required, although candidates with a Bachelor’s Degree and four additional years of relevant experience can also be considered.

As a Program Manager at NAVAIR NAWCWD through Strategic Data Systems, you will be responsible for acting as the overall program manager and administrator for the contracted effort. This includes managing interactions with governmental program authorities, overseeing the execution of contract requirements, and effectively acquiring and managing program resources.

Yes, onsite work is required for the Program Manager role at Strategic Data Systems. The position is based in Ridgecrest, CA, and being physically present is essential for effective oversight and project management, especially given the nature of the contract with NAVAIR NAWCWD.

The Program Manager will support an upcoming Information Management/Information Technology Services contract at NAVAIR NAWCWD, which involves overseeing important projects that contribute to advancements in technology and information services in the defense sector.

The salary range for the Program Manager position at Strategic Data Systems is between $150,000 and $190,000, depending on experience. This competitive salary is complemented by full benefits, making it an attractive opportunity for qualified candidates.

When answering this question, discuss your approach to project planning, prioritization, and communication. Share specific software or methodologies you use, such as Agile or Gantt charts, and illustrate with examples of how effective resource allocation and time management led to successful project completions.

To respond effectively, emphasize your communication and mediation skills. Provide an example of a specific conflict you resolved, showcasing your ability to listen, understand different perspectives, and find a collaborative solution that maintained team morale and project momentum.

Highlight your previous roles involving government contracts, focusing on your understanding of compliance, reporting requirements, and working alongside government stakeholders. Discuss how this experience equips you for the Program Manager role at Strategic Data Systems.

Mention industry-standard tools you are adept with, such as Microsoft Project, Asana, or Jira. Explain how these tools enhance project tracking, collaboration, and reporting, ultimately leading to more successful outcomes.

Explain your approach to stakeholder communication, emphasizing regular updates, scheduled meetings, and transparent reporting. Share an example of how keeping stakeholders informed led to positive project adjustments.

Detail your risk assessment process, which might include creating a risk register or using qualitative analysis techniques. Illustrate how you've successfully identified potential pitfalls in past projects and implemented mitigation strategies that ensured project success.

Talk about the importance of KPIs (Key Performance Indicators) and post-project reviews. Mention how you analyze outcomes against the project's original goals and engage your team in lessons learned sessions to improve future projects.

Share a specific example where you faced obstacles, focusing on the challenges, your strategy to overcome them, and what you learned. Position this experience as an opportunity that ultimately enhanced your skills as a Program Manager.

Highlight your experience in managing project budgets, resource allocation, and financial oversight. Discuss your methods for monitoring expenditures and ensuring projects remain financially viable, referencing successful budget management strategies from past projects.

Discuss your leadership style and techniques you employ to promote teamwork, such as team-building activities, fostering an inclusive culture, and recognizing individual contributions. Share how you keep the energy up during challenging times to maintain motivation across the team.