Principal Program Manager

The University of Dayton Research Institute’s (UDRI) Digital Transformation Center (DTC) is a growing collaboration hub at the intersection of government, academia, and industry. We accelerate digital transformation by connecting people, ideas, and emerging technologies—and we’re scaling fast. To help lead this momentum, we’re seeking a sharp, self-directed Program Manager to drive defense-related programs, support strategic collaborations, and operationalize growth in the government contracting space.

Are you a trusted DoD program expert who thrives in fast-moving environments and wants to help shape the future of defense innovation? The ideal candidate brings deep experience in acquisition and government contracting, holds a Top Secret clearance, and approaches challenges with a “how might we” mindset. If you're fluent in both technical and programmatic conversations, energized by ambiguity, and ready to roll up your sleeves without waiting for instructions, this role was built for you.

Responsibilities:

Lead and manage defense-focused programs across the DTC portfolio, from concept through execution.

Serve as the primary liaison between DTC, DoD program offices, industry partners, and internal teams.

Drive program execution with limited oversight—keeping efforts on time, within scope, and on budget.

Provide strategic and tactical guidance on DoD acquisition pathways, contracting vehicles, and program lifecycles.

Translate technical needs into actionable efforts—bridging conversations between engineers, researchers, and program sponsors.

Track and manage subcontracting, compliance, and reporting requirements.

Support proposal development, teaming strategies, and execution plans for new defense initiatives.

Foster a spirit of "how might we" across projects—bringing creative thinking to bureaucratic challenges.

Support DTC’s agile, entrepreneurial culture and serve as a connector across projects and people.

Support other duties as assigned.

*Bachelor’s degree in engineering, business, public policy, or a related field (advanced degree preferred)
*10+ years of progressive experience managing or supporting DoD acquisition programs, with a strong track record of execution and stakeholder engagement
*Deep understanding of FAR/DFARS, government contracting, and subcontracting practices
*Experience leading programs involving multiple contract types (e.g., OTAs, IDIQs, SBIR/STTR, CRADAs)
*Success in managing complex programs with minimal oversight
*Strong interpersonal, negotiation, and communication skills, including regular interaction with senior DoD leadership
*Proven ability to work in small, agile teams and drive results independently
*Technically conversant—able to engage meaningfully in discussions involving digital transformation, emerging tech, or systems engineering
*Ability to obtain an Active Top Secret clearance
*Due to the requirements of our research contracts with the U.S. federal government, candidates for this position must be a U.S. citizen

While not everyone may possess all of the preferred qualifications, the ideal candidate will bring many of the following:

*Master’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., engineering, systems management, public administration, or business)
*Experience leading or supporting programs involving classified or special access programs (SAPs)
*Prior experience working in or closely with a government contracting organization (prime or sub), ideally in a leadership or senior program role
*Familiarity with innovation frameworks, digital transformation initiatives, or emerging technologies in defense (e.g., digital engineering, AI/ML, data integration)
*Proven success navigating non-traditional acquisition pathways (e.g., OTAs, rapid prototyping, tech scouting)
*Supervisory experience
*PMP, DAWIA Level II/III, or similar program management certification

Informed by its Catholic and Marianist mission, the University is committed to the principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion. Informed by this commitment, we seek to increase diversity, achieve equitable outcomes, and model inclusion across our campus community. As an Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employer, we will not discriminate against minorities, women, protected veterans, individuals with disabilities, or on the basis of age, race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation or gender identity.