Project Lead

SAIC is seeking a Project Lead in Colorado Springs, CO. As a Project Lead for the AF TENCAP HOPE 2.0 initiative, you will play a pivotal role in leading cross-functional teams to deliver advanced prototype solutions that meet the rapidly evolving needs of the United States Air Force. This high-visibility position requires a seasoned engineering leader with a proven track record in managing technically sophisticated teams and facilitating the end-to-end delivery of innovative solutions.

In this role, you will oversee the full lifecycle of discrete AF TENCAP projects, from initial concept through successful transition. Leveraging your project management expertise, you will lead workforce planning, scheduling, risk mitigation, and technical execution to ensure mission success. Project durations typically range from 6–18 months, with scope and complexity varying across efforts. Larger initiatives will require full‑time focus, while smaller projects may be managed concurrently, up to five at a time.

Your leadership will extend across a matrixed team of engineers, mission specialists, technical writers, cybersecurity experts, trainers, testers, and software developers. Beyond technical execution, you will serve as a vital interface between your team, AF TENCAP, and mission partners—translating complex technical objectives into actionable outcomes while ensuring alignment with organizational goals.

Location Requirement:
This position requires candidates to be capable of working onsite in Colorado Springs as needed to support project execution and engagement with stakeholders. 

Key Responsibilities

Your leadership and expertise will be instrumental in guiding high-impact, mission-critical initiatives. Core responsibilities include:

• Oversee Cross-Functional Teams: Lead matrixed engineering and operational teams to deliver rapid prototypes, ensuring technical, schedule, cost, and financial performance align with project objectives.
• Full Lifecycle Project Management: Manage projects from inception to transition, including scheduling, workforce utilization, risk management, and stakeholder engagement.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Build and maintain strong relationships with AF TENCAP and mission partners, gathering requirements, aligning objectives, and ensuring mission goals are met.
• Technical Communication: Translate complex technical concepts into clear, actionable information for non‑technical stakeholders to enable informed decision‑making.
• Alignment with Program Goals: Work with PMO managers to confirm project alignment with contractual requirements, programmatic expectations, and AF TENCAP priorities.
• Reporting and Documentation: Prepare and deliver comprehensive monthly project updates, EACs, ETCs, and technical data packages to stakeholders on time and with accuracy.
• Innovation and Efficiencies: Identify emerging technologies and improved methodologies that enhance project execution and support TENCAP objectives.

Required Qualifications:

To lead successfully in this role, you must bring deep expertise and a proven track record in engineering leadership and rapid-response project management and execution:

• Clearance: Active Top Secret security clearance with SCI eligibility.
• Education and Experience:
  • Bachelor’s degree with at least 15 years of experience supporting Department of Defense (DoD) or Intelligence Community (IC) projects.
  • Minimum of 5 years of experience leading technical teams in a prototyping or innovative development environment.
  • At least 3 years of experience in project, program, or task management, with demonstrated proficiency in managing risk and driving results.
• Matrixed Team Leadership: Proven ability to effectively manage matrixed and geographically dispersed teams across diverse functions.
• Certification: Project Management Certification (PMP) or equivalent credential.

Desired Qualifications:

Ideal candidates will bring additional expertise to further elevate their impact on the AF TENCAP mission:

• Advanced Degree: A Master’s or Ph.D. in a relevant discipline.
• Agile Project Management: Experience applying Agile methodologies to manage dynamic project workflows.
• Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE): Familiarity with MBSE frameworks and digital tools such as Aras Innovator, Cameo, DOORS, and AF SIM.
• Software Development Knowledge: Understanding of modern software development approaches, including DevSecOps practices.
• Technical and Financial Documentation: Proven ability to produce detailed cost analyses, risk mitigation strategies, and technical documentation both accurately and on time.