Advance Your Career: Program Manager Roles at the NGA
The National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) is currently seeking talented professionals to join their team as Program Managers. This role is essential to the agency’s mission, providing the oversight necessary to maintain the integrity, cost-effectiveness, and technical excellence of high-stakes geospatial projects. If you are a strategic thinker with a background in acquisition and project management, this is an opportunity to make a tangible impact on national security.
Job Responsibilities
As a Program Manager, you will serve as the backbone of mission-critical projects. Your daily responsibilities will include:
- Lifecycle Management: Guiding programs from conception through execution and closeout.
- Financial Oversight: Monitoring expenditures, validating resource requirements, and ensuring invoice accuracy.
- Contract Administration: Working with customers to develop Requests for Proposals (RFPs) and statements of work.
- Risk Mitigation: Identifying potential roadblocks and developing strategies to keep projects on track.
Comparison: Required vs. Preferred Qualifications
| Feature | Mandatory Requirement | Preferred Qualification |
|---|---|---|
| Experience | 4 years of project management/cost estimation | Cross-agency collaboration experience |
| Education | Bachelor's degree in a relevant field | Advanced degree or specialized certification |
| Policy | Basic understanding of acquisition | Knowledge of DOD/Federal regulations |
Requirements
Success in this role requires a high degree of accountability. Candidates must be U.S. citizens, pass a rigorous background investigation, and be willing to undergo regular polygraph examinations. You must also maintain the ability to handle Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) as part of your daily duties.
Salary Overview
The compensation for this position is structured under the Defense Civilian Intelligence Personnel System (DCIPS). Salary ranges from $76,573 to $158,322 annually, depending on specific qualifications and experience. High-performing employees have the opportunity for annual pay adjustments and performance bonuses.
Benefits
NGA employees enjoy a robust suite of benefits, including:
- Access to federal health and retirement programs.
- Opportunities for specialized professional certifications (DAWIA).
- A culture that emphasizes career growth and internal mobility.
- Recruitment incentives for eligible and highly qualified applicants.
Application Tips
To stand out, your application must be precise. Utilize the NGA-specific resume builder and ensure your experience is documented in detail. Focus on the results you achieved, not just the tasks you performed. Finally, double-check your submission to ensure it arrives before the deadline.
Working as a Program Manager for the NGA is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the safety and intelligence needs of the United States. If you possess the leadership skills and technical expertise to manage large-scale acquisition programs, apply now to join a team that is shaping the future of global intelligence.
Why This Program Manager (Hiring Event) Job Matters
Take charge of the mission at the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency as a Program Manager. Join a team where your expertise in strategy, acquisition, and project oversight directly protects our nation.
Program Manager (Hiring Event) Job Overview
The National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) is seeking dedicated Program Managers to oversee the life cycle of mission-critical acquisition and support programs. In this role, you will lead high-impact teams, manage complex budgets, and ensure technical performance aligns with the agency's strategic goals. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of geospatial intelligence in a high-stakes environment.
Requirements for Program Manager (Hiring Event)
- U.S. Citizenship
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance with SCI access
- Successful completion of a Counterintelligence Polygraph and drug screening
- Bachelor's degree in a relevant field OR a combination of education and four years of specialized experience
- Proven experience in contract requirements, invoice review, and financial management
- Experience with project management in rapidly changing environments
- Strong communication, problem-solving, and attention to detail
Preferred Qualifications for Program Manager (Hiring Event)
- Prior experience collaborating across diverse organizations
- Expertise in developing cost estimates based on complex stakeholder requirements
- Deep knowledge of Federal, DOD, and NGA acquisition policies and regulations
- Proficiency in planning, executing, and reporting on large-scale budgets
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary structure within the DCIPS pay bands
- ✓Performance-based bonuses and salary increases
- ✓Recruitment incentives for eligible candidates
- ✓Comprehensive federal benefits package
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and DAWIA certification
💡 How to Apply Program Manager (Hiring Event) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Program Manager (Hiring Event) Job
- Visit the NGA Careers Portal to register your account.
- Review the position announcement details thoroughly.
- Draft your resume using the required NGA resume builder (limit to 2 pages).
- Upload your resume and any optional supporting documents.
- Submit your application electronically before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Use the official NGA resume builder; applications submitted otherwise may not be processed.
- Highlight specific, measurable results from your previous experience rather than just listing duties.
- Clearly map your experience to the mandatory qualification criteria listed in the announcement.
- Ensure your application is submitted well before the 11:59 PM EDT deadline.
- Although not mandatory, a tailored cover letter can help articulate how your skills align with NGA mission needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the security clearance requirement for this role?
Applicants must be able to obtain and retain a Top Secret security clearance with access to Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI).
Can I work remotely for this position?
No, this position is not listed as telework or remote eligible. Candidates will be expected to work at the designated duty locations.
Is a DAWIA certification required?
DAWIA certification may be required for this position. New hires will have a set period (36–60 months) to achieve the necessary certification level.
What is the hiring process timeline?
*A: The hiring process for intelligence roles can be comprehensive. We recommend monitoring your status through the NGA Careers Portal for updates.*
Can veterans apply?
*A: Yes, the NGA encourages veterans to apply and applies Veterans' Preference in accordance with DOD policies.*
Job from National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency
The NGA is a vital member of the Intelligence Community and the Department of Defense. They provide actionable, timely, and accurate geospatial intelligence to warfighters and policymakers. Joining the NGA means working in a fast-paced environment where innovation is prioritized and technical excellence is the standard.