Vessel Acquisition & Modernization Program Manager

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in Virginia.

📋 Description

• Lead the acquisition of vessels, as well as shipbuilding, conversion, and modernization initiatives from the planning phase through to delivery and acceptance.

• Oversee program costs, schedules, technical performance, and risk management involving multiple stakeholders and contractors.

• Manage shipyard contracts and ensure program execution aligns with FAR and DFARS regulations.

• Direct configuration management, integration of Government-Furnished Equipment (GFE), change management, and acceptance processes.

• Coordinate vessel testing, sea trials, certifications, and delivery timelines.

• Ensure adherence to ABS classification standards, U.S. Coast Guard regulations, Navy guidelines, and MSC operational requirements.

• Assist in the integration of mission systems, including small boat operations, aviation support systems, dive and salvage equipment, sensors, and C4I capabilities.

• Foster communication and collaboration among MSC, NAVSEA, Fleet Commands, Combatant Commands, shipyards, prime contractors, and other key stakeholders.

• Provide executive-level program reporting, status updates, and strategic recommendations.

• May require visits to job sites in industrial or shipboard environments.

⛳️ Requirements

• 6 years of relevant progressive experience with a Bachelor's degree in a related field; 4 years of relevant progressive experience with a Master's degree in a related field; or a High School Diploma or equivalent combined with 10 years of relevant progressive experience.

• 8-15+ years of experience in leadership roles for vessel acquisition, new construction, major conversion, ship modernization, or shipbuilding programs.

• Experience supporting Military Sealift Command (MSC), Navy auxiliary vessels, Offshore Support Vessels (OSVs), special mission vessels, or similar maritime platforms.

• Proven experience managing complex programs with multiple government, industry, and operational stakeholders.

• Strong comprehension of MSC operations, Navy vessel acquisition processes, and maritime mission requirements.

• Familiarity with ABS classification standards and U.S. Coast Guard regulations.

• Experience with mission system integration, including small boat operations, aviation support, dive and salvage systems, sensors, and C4I systems.

• In-depth understanding of FAR/DFARS regulations and government contracting procedures.

• Experience with shipyard operations, contract management, configuration control, GFE management, sea trials, acceptance testing, and risk management.

• Excellent leadership, communication, stakeholder management, and problem-solving capabilities.

• Must hold and maintain an active Secret clearance.

• DAWIA Level II or Level III Certification in Program Management (or equivalent) is preferred.

• Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is preferred.

• Experience with Chouest-class or equivalent commercial vessel platforms is preferred.

• Experience managing cost-reimbursement, fixed-price, and performance-based logistics contracts is preferred.

• Prior experience supporting MSC, NAVSEA, Fleet Commands, Combatant Commands, or other Department of Defense entities is preferred.

• Relevant previous experience with MSC, NAVSEA, Engineering Duty Officer roles, or civilian shipyard program management is preferred.

🏝️ Benefits

• Access to top-tier medical, dental, and vision plan options.

• Wellness resources available.

• Employee assistance programs offered.

• Options for savings plans (401(k)).

• Financial planning tools provided.

• Life insurance coverage.

• Employee discounts available.

• Paid holidays included.

• Paid time off offered.

• Tuition reimbursement available.

• Scholarships for early childhood and post-secondary education.

• Bonus or other non-recurrent compensation may occasionally be available for qualifying positions.

• Valuable educational and training programs to support ongoing career development.