Lead Innovation: Become a Program Manager at the Naval Surface Warfare Center

The Naval Surface Warfare Center Indian Head Division (NSWC IHD) is seeking a visionary Program Manager to join their technical leadership team. This is a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of cutting-edge technology and national defense. If you are a seasoned professional in engineering or physical sciences with a knack for building strategic partnerships, this role in Indian Head, Maryland, offers the professional challenge you have been searching for.

Job Responsibilities

As a Program Manager, you will be the primary point of contact for external partnerships, including academia and industry. Your core duties include:

Agreement Management: Leading Technology Transfer (T2) and Partnership Intermediary Agreements (P3).
Strategic Liaison: Serving as the Office of Research and Technology Applications representative.
Business Growth: Developing annual command T2 business plans to increase technology fielding.
Negotiation: Establishing terms for partnerships and keeping management updated on status and risks.

Comparison: Engineering vs. Physical Science Qualifications

Feature	0801 General Engineering	1301 General Physical Science
Core Degree	ABET-accredited Engineering	Physical Science, Math, or Engineering
Curriculum	Calculus-based fundamentals	24 semester hours in relevant sciences
Alternative	Professional Engineer (PE) License	Combination of education & experience

Requirements

Education: Completion of a relevant bachelor's degree or higher.
Experience: One year of specialized experience at the ND-04 grade level.
Security: Ability to obtain and hold an SCI clearance.
Compliance: Ability to adhere to financial disclosure and ethics requirements.

Salary Overview

This position provides a competitive federal salary, ranging from $143,913 to $197,200 annually. As part of the Warfare Centers Personnel Demonstration Project, pay is competitive with the private sector for high-level technical and managerial talent.

Benefits

The Navy offers a robust benefits package, including:

Comprehensive health and life insurance.
Federal pension and Thrift Savings Plan (401k equivalent).
Significant professional development programs.
Relocation assistance where eligible.

Application Tips

Respect the Limits: Your resume must be two pages or less.
Use the Builder: Utilize the USAJOBS Resume Builder to capture the specific series and grade information needed.
Detail is Key: Clearly state your experience in managing technical agreements, as this is a core requirement.
Don't Delay: The deadline is August 4, 2026. Submit your documents early to ensure everything is processed correctly.

This role is perfect for those ready to transition from pure technical work to strategic program management within the Navy. By bridging the gap between laboratories and commercial systems, you will directly influence the future of naval technology. Apply today to start your journey.

Why This Program Manager Job Matters

Are you a leader in engineering or physical sciences? Advance your career with the Naval Surface Warfare Center as a Program Manager in Indian Head, Maryland, and shape the future of energetic materials technology.

Program Manager Job Overview

The Naval Surface Warfare Center Indian Head Division (NSWC IHD) is seeking a highly skilled Program Manager to join the Technical Director Department. This pivotal role involves managing Technology Transfer (T2) and Partnership Intermediary Agreements (P3) while serving as the primary liaison between technical departments and external industry or academic partners. You will play a crucial role in accelerating the transition of cutting-edge technologies into fielded systems, supporting the command’s overarching mission and strategic goals.

Requirements for Program Manager

Must be a U.S. citizen.
Must meet OPM qualification standards for either the 0801 (General Engineering) or 1301 (General Physical Science) occupational series.
Minimum of one year of specialized experience at the ND-04 (GS-12/13 equivalent) level.
Ability to obtain and maintain a Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) security clearance.
Must pass a pre-employment drug screening.
Must complete a Confidential Financial Disclosure Report (OGE-450) within 30 days of appointment.

Preferred Qualifications for Program Manager

Proven experience in negotiating and managing complex technology partnership agreements.
Demonstrated ability to bridge communication gaps between technical teams and external stakeholders.
Strong background in transitioning laboratory or experimental technologies to real-world applications.
Experience in strategic planning and command-level business plan development.
Expertise in energetic materials or explosives technology project management.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary package
✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options
✓Federal retirement benefits
✓Opportunities for professional development and training
✓Relocation incentives may be authorized for qualified candidates

💡 How to Apply Program Manager Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Program Manager Job

Log in or register for a USAJOBS account.
Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to 2 pages.
Ensure your resume explicitly details job titles, duties, start/end dates, and hours per week.
Attach required documentation, including transcripts and, if applicable, SF-50s or veteran's preference documents.
Submit your complete application package via the USAJOBS portal before the closing date.

💡 General Tips

Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure all mandatory employment details are included.
Double-check your resume page count—applications over 2 pages will not be accepted.
Clearly highlight your experience with T2 and P3 agreements in your resume to demonstrate specialized expertise.
Ensure all transcript documentation is uploaded, even if unofficial, to verify educational requirements.
Do not email your resume; it must be submitted through the official portal to be considered.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the pay band for this position?

This position falls under the Warfare Centers Personnel Demonstration Project, with a salary range of $143,913 to $197,200 per year.

Is this position eligible for telework?

Yes, this position is designated as telework-eligible, subject to agency policy.

What level of security clearance is required?

The position requires a Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) security clearance.

Job from Naval Sea Systems Command

NSWC IHD is the Department of the Navy's premier energetic materials laboratory. As a vital component of the Naval Sea Systems Command, the agency develops, manufactures, and tests ordnance, energetic materials, and explosive systems. Civilian employees here enjoy a culture of purpose where patriotism and technical excellence unite to safeguard national freedoms.