U.S. Defense Program & Operations Lead at Tekever

, North Carolina, United States -

Full Time

Start Date

Immediate

Expiry Date

24 May, 26

Salary

0.0

Posted On

23 Feb, 26

Experience

10 year(s) or above

Remote Job

Yes

Telecommute

Yes

Sponsor Visa

Skills

Program Management, Acquisition Strategy, FAR, DFARS, Test & Evaluation (T&E), Requirements Traceability, Business Development Support, Capture Planning, Proposal Development, Stakeholder Relationship Management, Operational Alignment, Cross-Functional Collaboration, Budget Management, Schedule Management, DoD Acquisition Processes, Export Control Regulations

Industry

Information Technology & Services

Description

Are you ready to revolutionise the world with TEKEVER? 🚀🌍 At TEKEVER, we lead innovation in Europe as the European leader in unmanned technology, where cutting-edge advancements meet unparalleled innovation. 💻 Digital | 🛡️ Defence | 🔒 Security | 🛰️ Space We operate across four strategic areas, combining artificial intelligence, systems engineering, data science, and aerospace technology to tackle global challenges — from protecting people and critical infrastructure to exploring space. We offer a unique surveillance-as-a-service solution that delivers real-time intelligence, enhancing maritime safety and saving lives. Our products and services support strategic and operational decisions in the most demanding environments — whether at sea, on land, in space, or in cyberspace. 🌐 Become part of a dynamic, multidisciplinary, and mission-driven team that is transforming maritime surveillance and redefining global safety standards. At TEKEVER, our mission is to provide limitless support through mission-oriented game-changers, delivering the right information at the right time to empower critical decision-making. If you're passionate about technology and eager to shape the future — TEKEVER is the place for you. 👇🏻🎯 Mission: We are seeking a highly experienced U.S. Defense Program & Operations Lead to serve as the linchpin of our new U.S. office. This role connects corporate strategy with operational execution while navigating the complexities of the U.S. defense acquisition environment. What will be your responsibilities: Program Management & Acquisition Lead acquisition strategy and execution across defense platforms in compliance with United States Department of Defense regulations, including FAR and DFARS Manage end-to-end program execution—from opportunity identification through competitive down-selection Collaborate with engineering, finance, contracts, and legal teams to define scope, schedules, budgets, and performance metrics Ensure programs are delivered on time, within budget, and aligned with contractual requirements Test & Evaluation (T&E) Oversight Develop test strategies and acceptance criteria aligned with U.S. Government requirements and MIL-STD frameworks Oversee third-party and government-led testing events Analyze test data to generate technical insights and programmatic recommendations Ensure traceability between requirements, verification activities, and performance outcomes Business Development Support Identify and qualify new U.S. defense opportunities in coordination with East Coast business development leadership Support capture planning, proposal development, and teaming strategies Build and maintain relationships with prime contractors, government program offices, and T&E facilities Contribute to long-term market positioning and growth strategy Operational Alignment & Cross-Functional Collaboration Serve as the primary liaison between the U.S. satellite office and headquarters Standardize reporting structures, processes, and program KPIs Deliver executive-level updates on program performance, forecasts, budgets, and test outcomes Ensure alignment across time zones and cross-functional teams Profile and requirements: Required Qualifications 8–12 years of experience in U.S. defense program management, acquisitions, budgeting, and test & evaluation Strong knowledge of DoD acquisition processes, FAR/DFARS regulations, MIL-STD testing frameworks, and competitive down-selection practices Demonstrated success managing complex defense programs on schedule and within budget Experience interpreting technical test data to inform programmatic and strategic decisions Excellent written and verbal communication skills Proven ability to build and maintain relationships with government and industry stakeholders Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, a technical discipline, or Business Mandatory Requirements Minimum 5 years of experience supporting DoD/government logistics and training programs (experience with autonomous systems preferred) Demonstrated leadership experience organizing, planning, scheduling, and coordinating multi-disciplinary workstreams Prior experience standing up or supporting a new office, division, or operational function Experience working with both U.S. government customers and international headquarters teams Eligibility to work in the United States Ability to comply with U.S. export control regulations, including ITAR/EAR technologies Ability to obtain and maintain required security clearances or site access approvals Preferred Qualifications Experience with ISR, autonomous systems, or UAS platforms Active U.S. security clearance (Secret or higher preferred) Experience with defense prime contractor environments Advanced degree (MS/MBA) Compensation & Benefits TEKEVER offers a competitive total rewards package designed to support the well-being and success of our employees. Benefits may include: Competitive base salary Performance-based bonus opportunities Retirement savings plan (401(k)) Paid time off and company holidays Paid sick leave Health insurance coverage Compensation Transparency Compensation within the posted salary range will be determined based on factors such as skills, experience, qualifications, and work location, consistent with applicable laws. Pre-Employment Requirements Employment offers may be contingent upon successful completion of a background check and reference verification, in accordance with applicable laws and company policy. Equal Employment Opportunity TEKEVER is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. Do you want to know more about us ? Visit our LinkedIn page at https://www.linkedin.com/company/tekever/

Responsibilities

This lead will manage end-to-end program execution across U.S. defense platforms, ensuring compliance with DoD regulations, and developing test strategies aligned with government requirements. They will also support business development by identifying opportunities, assisting with capture planning, and building relationships with government and industry partners.