Become a Strategic Leader: Project Manager at the Defense Media Activity
Are you ready to influence the future of national-level strategic programs? The Defense Media Activity (DMA) is currently accepting applications for a Project Manager (GS-13) based in Fort Meade, Maryland. This role is a unique opportunity for seasoned professionals to drive innovation within a worldwide media organization that keeps our defense forces and the public informed.
Job Responsibilities
As a Project Manager, you will serve as the principal technical authority for the DMA’s enterprise project and portfolio management framework. Your daily contributions will include:
- Strategy Execution: Translating national-level defense directives into actionable, long-term plans.
- Process Improvement: Applying Lean Six Sigma methodologies to solve systemic inefficiencies across the enterprise.
- Contract Management: Performing Contracting Officer Representative (COR) duties, including the development of Statements of Work (SOWs) and monitoring fiscal performance.
- Technology Integration: Leading the integration of emerging tools, such as AI, to optimize workflows.
- Executive Reporting: Delivering data-driven briefings to senior leadership to guide resource allocation and policy development.
Comparison: Project Management Requirements
| Feature | Requirement Detail |
|---|---|
| Grade Level | GS-13 |
| Security Clearance | Secret |
| Experience Level | 1 year at GS-12 level or equivalent |
| Resume Length | Maximum of 2 pages |
| Drug Screening | Required |
Requirements
To be considered for this position, you must demonstrate independent management of complex, enterprise-wide strategic programs. Candidates must possess:
- Specialized experience equivalent to the GS-12 level.
- Proven ability to translate national-level strategies into actionable plans.
- Experience leading enterprise business process re-engineering.
- Demonstrated ability to handle high-value government contracts as a COR.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $121,785 to $158,322 per year. Beyond the base salary, federal employees enjoy a robust benefits package, including:
- Comprehensive health, vision, and dental insurance.
- Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- Generous paid time off (annual and sick leave).
- Flexible work schedules and telework opportunities.
- Career advancement and professional training.
Application Tips
Submitting a federal application can be competitive. Follow these steps to improve your chances:
- Mind the Limits: The two-page resume rule is strictly enforced. Focus on the most impactful achievements.
- Highlight Competencies: Use your resume to specifically showcase your experience in planning, evaluation, and strategic thinking.
- Documentation: Ensure all SF-50s and veterans' preference documents are uploaded in the correct format.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is a college degree a substitute for specialized experience?
A: No. For this specific GS-13 grade level, education cannot be substituted for the required specialized experience.
Q: What is the risk associated with this position?
A: This is a Noncritical-Sensitive (NCS) position with moderate risk and requires a drug test.
If you have the strategic mindset and the technical expertise to manage critical defense programs, the Defense Media Activity offers an unparalleled platform for your career growth. Prepare your application carefully, adhere to the submission guidelines, and apply today to join this vital mission.
Why This Project Manager Job Matters
Take command of national-level strategic initiatives and drive enterprise transformation at the Defense Media Activity.
Project Manager Job Overview
The Defense Media Activity (DMA) is seeking a highly skilled Project Manager to join the Headquarters Staff in Fort Meade, Maryland. This mission-critical role focuses on the strategic management of a complex portfolio of programs that inform Department of Defense audiences and sustain vital global media operations. As a key advisor, you will bridge the gap between high-level national defense strategies and actionable, long-range planning, ensuring that resource allocation is driven by data-backed decision-making.
Requirements for Project Manager
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-12 grade level or equivalent.
- Proven track record of managing enterprise-wide strategic program portfolios of national significance.
- Experience translating national defense strategies into actionable long-range plans.
- Expertise in business process re-engineering using methodologies like Lean Six Sigma.
- Certified Contracting Officer Representative (COR) experience for high-value contracts.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
- Successful completion of a pre-employment drug screening.
- Adherence to a strict two-page resume limit.
Preferred Qualifications for Project Manager
- Experience in the integration of emerging technologies, such as Artificial Intelligence, into project management frameworks.
- Proficiency in developing Statements of Work (SOWs) and Independent Government Cost Estimates (IGCEs).
- Expertise in drafting executive-level correspondence and high-level decision papers.
- Strong ability to facilitate matrixed team collaboration to solve systemic organizational inefficiencies.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance programs
- ✓Generous retirement plans including the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
- ✓Paid federal holidays, vacation, and sick leave
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training
- ✓Access to life insurance and flexible spending accounts
- ✓Work-life balance through telework eligibility
💡 How to Apply Project Manager Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Project Manager Job
- Log into or create an account on USAJOBS.
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed the two-page limit.
- Gather supporting documentation, including SF-50 and veteran preference documents if applicable.
- Complete the online questionnaire via the application portal.
- Submit your entire package, including the questionnaire and resume, by 11:59 PM EST on the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Stick strictly to the two-page limit; exceeding this will disqualify your application.
- Use standard fonts such as Lato, Calibri, or Arial at 10-14 point size.
- Ensure your resume explicitly details the hours worked per week and specific dates of employment for each position.
- Upload documents in PDF format to ensure formatting remains intact.
- Review your responses to the online questionnaire against your resume to ensure consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the security clearance requirement for this role?
This position requires a Secret level security clearance.
Is telework allowed for this position?
Yes, this position is eligible for telework, subject to agency policy.
Can I exceed the two-page resume limit?
No. Any resume exceeding the two-page limit will be removed from consideration.
Job from Defense Media Activity
The Defense Media Activity (DMA) operates as a critical field activity reporting to the Assistant to the Secretary of Defense (Public Affairs). The agency is a global force in media, managing visual information records, broadcasting radio and television to overseas personnel, and training public affairs professionals. Joining the DMA means stepping into an environment where strategic precision meets national security, supporting combat and contingency forces across the globe.