Senior Acquisition & Program Management Lead – Space Force MILNET Proliferated LEO Programs, TSSCI

Overview

The United States Space Force is advancing a new generation of resilient distributed space architecturesparticularly in proliferated Low Earth Orbit (pLEO)to ensure assured communications data transport and mission connectivity in contested environments. We are seeking a highly seasoned Senior Acquisition & Program Management Lead to support these efforts with a focus on MILNETrelated transport pLEO integration and hybrid space networking.

This role is ideal for a senior professional with deep DoD/USSF acquisition experience strong technical fluency in space systems and a proven ability to guide complex multiagency programs from concept through operational fielding. A background in space and/or Joint acquisitions and program management especially as a Material Leader is strongly desired.

Key Responsibilities

Program Leadership & Execution

• Lead program management activities for Space Force initiatives involving MILNET modernization pLEO transport layers and resilient space networking.
• Develop and maintain Integrated Master Schedules (IMS) risk frameworks acquisition strategies and program documentation aligned with Department of the Air Force and DoD 5000-series guidance.
• Drive execution across government industry FFRDCs and mission partners ensuring technical schedule and contractual performance.
• Support milestone reviews technical interchange meetings and seniorlevel decision boards.

Acquisition Strategy & Lifecycle Management

• Provide expert guidance across the full acquisition lifecycle including requirements development contracting strategy source selection and performance oversight.
• Develop acquisition artifacts Statements of Work (SOWs) evaluation criteria and program baselines tailored to rapid prototyping and fielding pathways.
• Advise USSF leadership on trade space costbenefit considerations and transition strategies to operational Deltas and mission owners.

Technical Integration & Systems Understanding

• Evaluate and integrate technical inputs related to space vehicles ground systems mesh networking waveforms cybersecurity and resilient comms architectures.
• Assess contractor proposals system designs and technical approaches for feasibility scalability and alignment with USSF pLEO and MILNET objectives.
• Support interoperability planning with SDA DISA SSC COCOMs and Joint partners.

Stakeholder Engagement & Communication

• Serve as a trusted advisor to senior USSF leaders providing clear datadriven recommendations.
• Coordinate across Space Systems Command (SSC) Space Operations Command (SpOC) Space Development Agency (SDA) DISA and other mission partners.
• Prepare and deliver highquality briefings technical reports and decision materials for O6/SESlevel audiences.

Operational Insight & Mission Understanding

• Apply operational awareness of Joint communications contested space environments and resilient transport concepts.
• Support demonstrations exercises and field events to validate system performance and inform future capability development.
• Ensure alignment with DAF and USSF doctrine operational needs and longterm architectural vision.

Required Qualifications

• Active TS/SCI clearance.
• Bachelors degree in engineering physics systems management or related field; advanced degree preferred.
• 1015 years of experience in DoD or USSF acquisition program management or space systems development.
• Demonstrated experience with space architectures satellite communications or proliferated LEO systems.
• Strong understanding of DoD 5000 series DAF/USSF acquisition processes and rapid prototyping authorities.
• Proven ability to lead complex multidisciplinary teams and manage highvisibility programs.
• Exceptional communication analytical and organizational skills.
• Willingness to work in an on-site environment.

Desired Qualifications

• Prior experience as a USAF/USSF Material Leader/Program Manager
• Prior experience with Space Force programs SDA transport layer DISA MILNET modernization or hybrid space networking initiatives.
• Familiarity with commercial space ecosystems constellation operations and resilient comms architectures.
• Experience with cybersecurity mesh networking tactical data transport or spaceground integration.
• Certifications such as PMP DAWIA PM Level III (or equivalent) or Space Acquisition certification.
• Experience supporting senior O6/SESlevel decisionmaking.

Blue Sky Innovators Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex race color religion national origin disability protected Veteran status age or any other characteristic protected by law. If you are a qualified job seeker with a disability or a disabled veteran you have the right to request an accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to use or access as a result of your disability. To request an accommodation please email us at and provide your name and contact information. Please note: this is only for job seekers with disabilities requesting an accommodation.