Manager of Defense Programs

What We Do at

is a mission-focused defense technology startup dedicated to accelerating the safe and effective development of next-generation autonomous systems. We specialize in building and operating advanced test ranges for low Technology Readiness Level (TRL) single- or dual- use autonomous platforms, providing a critical bridge between early-stage innovation and real-world mission requirements.

Our ranges are designed to replicate complex, contested, and dynamic environments—giving innovators, researchers, and defense partners the ability to validate, stress-test, and mature their systems with speed and rigor. By combining deep technical expertise with a strong national security ethos, ensures that emerging autonomous technologies are tested not only for performance, but for resilience, adaptability, and operational relevance.

is a growing company with a team drawn from diverse professional backgrounds, bringing together expertise in defense, technology, engineering, and operations. We intentionally build our teams on the foundation of trust. Our values including the trust rule, ownership, bias for action, never stop learning, and sustainable excellence, not only guide how we work internally, but also how we partner with customers and stakeholders.

At , we believe that mission success depends on empowering innovation at the edge. We exist to help our partners move faster, fail smarter, and ultimately deliver autonomous capabilities that safeguard both national security and the future of global stability.

Position Overview 

As a Defense Programs Manager, you will play an important role in supporting and executing program management, business development, and federal acquisition initiatives within the defense and national security market. 

This position is ideal for a professional with 3–5 years of relevant experience who understands the Department of Defense (DoD) environment and is ready to take greater ownership of projects, customer engagement, and business development activities. 

You will be responsible for coordinating defense technology programs, researching and evaluating business opportunities, supporting federal contracting and acquisition processes, and contributing to capture strategies and proposal development. Working closely with company leadership, technical teams, government stakeholders, and external partners, you will help translate complex requirements into actionable plans that advance our mission and business objectives. 

We're looking for someone who is resourceful, analytical, organized, and comfortable operating in a fast-paced startup environment. The ideal candidate brings practical experience navigating the defense ecosystem, strong communication skills, sound judgment, and a willingness to take initiative. You should enjoy solving complex problems, building relationships, and continuously learning. 

The ideal candidate would reside in Minneapolis, MN. However, this position is remote, and candidates located anywhere within the Continental United States (CONUS) will be considered. 

Candidates must be able to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government security clearance (U.S. citizenship required) and travel up to 20% of the time. 

What You’ll Do 

Defense Program Management 

• Manage and coordinate assigned activities for early-stage defense technology programs, including schedules, milestones, deliverables, budgets, and risk tracking
• Monitor program performance, identify potential challenges, and recommend solutions to keep projects on track
• Coordinate with internal technical teams, government customers, and external partners to support successful program execution
• Develop program documentation, status reports, briefings, and other materials to communicate progress and support decision-making

Federal Acquisition and Contracting 

• Support federal contracting and acquisition activities within the DoD ecosystem, including acquisition planning, requirements development, and contract execution
• Research and evaluate acquisition strategies, contract vehicles, solicitation requirements, and government procurement opportunities
• Assist in developing and reviewing Statements of Work (SOW), Performance Work Statements (PWS), Statements of Objectives (SOO), and related acquisition documentation
• Track acquisition timelines, solicitation requirements, deliverables, and compliance obligations in coordination with internal and external stakeholders

Business Development and Capture Support 

• Identify, research, and evaluate business development opportunities aligned with 's technologies, capabilities, and strategic priorities
• Support capture planning, proposal development, and responses to government solicitations, requests for information (RFIs), and other business opportunities
• Conduct market, customer, and competitor research to inform business development strategies and opportunity assessments