Engineering Technical/Program Lead - JobID-0217

About The Role

: Innovative Defense Technologies (IDT), a leading defense technology company, is seeking a Engineering Technical/Program Lead to be part of our Advanced Capabilities team and based out of our Arlington, VA location. The Engineering Technical/Program Lead is a highly technical engineer with the ability to drive and manage a team in a fast-paced, customer-focused test and experimentation team. This role requires deep experience designing, testing, integrating, deploying, and operating complex software and hardware systems in mission-critical environments.

The Engineering Technical/Program Lead will lead a team to design, architect, deliver, and integrate complex DoD software and hardware systems onboard ships and Navy assets on time and on budget. They will be expected to lead test execution efforts in the field, interface directly with senior warfighters and government sponsors, and drive resolution of complex integration and operational issues during delivery and test events. This role is hands-on, highly technical, and requires strong judgment, adaptability, and technical leadership in high-visibility environments.

Requirements

S. Security Clearance. This is an on-site position.

Requiring at least 5 days in office, based out of our Arlington, VA location.

and success criteria that drive project outcomes.

and project plans align with program objectives and IDT business goals by conducting quality and alignment reviews and implementing structures that enable coordinated execution across the program Design and Architect Systems: Develop structured, scalable system designs that balance performance, reliability, and long-term sustainability. Tailor and Manage Program Approaches: Assign individuals with the appropriate expertise across the program to deliver projects and tasks effectively. Forecast skill gaps and proactively determine strategies to address them.

Design and implement scalable processes, tools, and knowledge-sharing mechanisms that promote efficiency and consistency. Identify procurement efficiencies and economies of scale, build strong relationships with suppliers and stakeholders, and apply lessons learned through inspections, experimentation, and continuous improvement. Integrate, Deploy, and Validate Systems: Lead the deployment, installation, configuration, and operational support of complex software and hardware systems supporting DoD and Navy operational and developmental testing.

Troubleshoot and resolve advanced system, network, software, and integration issues during live test and experimentation events. Leverage Insights and Data: Analyze customer feedback, research findings, and performance trends to inform design direction and enhance system effectiveness.

, including recommendations for corrective actions. Assure Quality, Cost, and Schedule: In conjunction with the Program Management team, develop and manage Program Quality and Cost Management Plans to ensure consistent standards, financial discipline, and schedule alignment. Integrate individual project schedules into a cohesive program schedule, define interdependencies, anticipate delays, and implement mitigation strategies.

Collaborate and Share Knowledge: Collaborate directly with senior warfighters, test directors, and government sponsors to define objectives, schedules, and execution plans.

What You Will Do

: Define and Scope Solutions: Interpret and document stakeholder needs to establish clear, prioritized

Who You Are (Required)

: Bachelor's degree in engineering, computer science, mathematics, physics or other STEM field (or equivalent full-time professional experience) 7+ years' relevant experience required Understanding of software development processes and the activities described by the Systems Engineering V-Model Advanced troubleshooti