Strategic Program Associate

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the task load: Track actions, commitments, suspense dates, and deliverables across concurrent programs; run the programs battle rhythm (agendas, notes, follow-ups); and keep leadership ahead of deadlines.
• Build the systems: Design, build, and maintain NODA's Strategic Programs Confluence knowledge base and Jira workflows — program pages, task boards, templates, and dashboards.
• Enable decision-making: Research customers, acquisition pathways, technologies, policies, and market developments; deliver concise, well-sourced summaries, briefings, and decision papers.
• Keep the record: Draft and maintain program artifacts — status rollups, risk registers, decision logs, meeting minutes, and after-action documentation.
• Support engagements: Prepare white papers, briefing materials, and coordination notes for customer engagements, program reviews, and demonstrations; assist on-site at select events.
• Support growth: Assist with market research, competitive analysis, customer landscape mapping, and inputs to capture and proposal efforts.
• Grow into the craft: Learn NODA's programs, customers, and mission domain deliberately; take on increasing program responsibility as skills grow, with direct mentorship.

Required Qualifications

• U.S. Citizen with ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance.
• Bachelor's degree completed within roughly the last two years, with a strong academic record (business, finance, political science, engineering, or related analytical field).
• Exceptional writing and research skills.
• Strong organizational discipline for tracking many commitments.
• Demonstrated aptitude with productivity and collaboration software; ability to rapidly learn Confluence and Jira.
• Demonstrated work ethic (employment, leadership, or entrepreneurial initiative).
• Self-aware, coachable, and composed under shifting priorities and ambiguity.

Preferred Qualifications

• Academic research or honors thesis in defense acquisition, national security, or related field.
• Exposure to the defense industry through internships, research, or work experience.
• Coursework or experience in finance, data analysis, or business analytics.
• Hands-on experience with Atlassian tools (Confluence, Jira) or comparable systems.
• Customer-facing work experience.
• Genuine interest in autonomous systems, unmanned platforms, and the defense mission.

Skills & Attributes

• Ego-less team player who takes ownership of unglamorous work.
• Precise, candid communicator in writing and in person.
• Detail-oriented and reliable; closes every loop.
• Curious, fast learner with bias for action.
• Integrity and discretion with sensitive information.

What We Offer

• Hybrid work environment
• Competitive pay
• Flexible time off and generous PTO policy
• Federal holidays
• Generous health, dental, and vision benefits
• Free OneMedical membership