Lead IT Innovation at the Department of Defense: Supervisory IT Program Manager (APPSW)

Are you an experienced IT leader ready to take your career to the federal level? The Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) is currently hiring a Supervisory IT Program Manager (APPSW) to guide high-impact financial technology initiatives. This role is pivotal in maintaining the integrity and innovation of financial systems that support the United States military.

Job Responsibilities

As a Supervisory IT Program Manager, your daily impact will be felt across the agency. You will lead a team of five to fifteen IT specialists, ensuring that projects align with organizational goals. Key duties include:

Planning, reviewing, and directing the work of IT specialists.
Managing the full software development lifecycle (SDLC) for financial systems, including analysis, design, programming, and maintenance.
Enhancing team productivity through effective workflow and assignment strategies.
Establishing and monitoring performance standards to ensure data accuracy and operational excellence.
Providing technical guidance and mentoring staff in DFAS personnel programs.

Quick Job Comparison

Feature	Details
Salary Range	$106,437 - $144,481
Grade Level	GS-13
Security Clearance	Secret
Travel	Seldom
Job Series	2210

Requirements

To be considered, you must demonstrate strong technical leadership. Candidates must possess one year of specialized experience at the GS-12 level in the federal service, or an equivalent level in the private sector. You must demonstrate proficiency in:

Leading IT projects and software teams.
Business processes involved in the SDLC.
Professional competencies including attention to detail, oral communication, and problem-solving.
Successful completion of the USA Hire Assessment.

Salary Overview

This position offers a highly competitive salary range between $106,437 and $144,481 per year. Pay for first-time federal hires is typically set at Step 1, with room for growth based on performance and tenure within the federal system.

Benefits

Comprehensive health and life insurance options.
Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government contributions.
Generous paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
Opportunities for professional training and development within the DoD.

Application Tips

Customize Your Resume: Clearly highlight your experience managing the SDLC for large-scale financial IT systems.
The USA Hire Assessment: This is a crucial step. Practice beforehand, and ensure you have at least three hours of quiet time to complete the test.
Detail Matters: When explaining your supervisory experience, use metrics to show how you improved team performance or project delivery speed.

This role is an exceptional opportunity for a senior IT professional to influence the financial technology landscape of the DoD. If you possess the leadership skills and technical expertise to manage critical IT programs, we invite you to apply.

Why This Supv It Program Manager (Appsw) Job Matters

Lead mission-critical IT innovation for the Department of Defense. Use your expertise to drive financial systems excellence at the Defense Finance and Accounting Service.

Supv It Program Manager (Appsw) Job Overview

The Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) is seeking a highly skilled Supervisory IT Program Manager to oversee application software development and maintenance. You will lead teams, manage complex financial IT portfolios, and ensure the delivery of high-quality software solutions that support the financial infrastructure of the U.S. Department of Defense. This is a vital leadership role responsible for steering organizational strategy, fostering talent, and managing the full software development lifecycle to meet federal standards.

Requirements for Supv It Program Manager (Appsw)

One year of specialized experience at the GS-12 level or equivalent.
Proven experience leading projects and teams in financial and accounting IT systems.
In-depth knowledge of the software development life cycle (analysis, design, programming, testing, deployment, maintenance).
Ability to meet the USA Hire Assessment cut score for critical competencies.
Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
Must comply with DoD 8140 requirements regarding foundational and residential qualifications.
Must be a U.S. citizen.

Preferred Qualifications for Supv It Program Manager (Appsw)

Experience in organizational design and workflow optimization.
Demonstrated capability in managing diverse teams of IT specialists.
Strong background in performance management and setting operational standards.
Expertise in balancing technical requirements with client service needs.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Federal health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
✓Generous retirement plans including the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching.
✓Paid federal holidays and accrued annual and sick leave.
✓Potential for relocation assistance for qualified candidates.
✓Structured career development and federal training opportunities.

💡 How to Apply Supv It Program Manager (Appsw) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Supv It Program Manager (Appsw) Job

Prepare a concise, maximum two-page resume.
Visit the USAJOBS portal to create your profile and complete the initial eligibility questionnaire.
Submit your application and required supporting documents before the closing date.
Monitor your email for a unique link to the USA Hire Assessment; complete the assessment within 48 hours of notification.
Review your application status via your USAJOBS account dashboard.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume explicitly maps your experience to the software development life cycle and leadership requirements.
Set aside at least three hours of uninterrupted time to complete the USA Hire assessment.
If you require a reasonable accommodation for the assessment, submit your request early to avoid delays.
Double-check that all required SF-50 forms or veteran documentation are attached before submission.
Focus your resume content on accomplishments that demonstrate your ability to lead technical teams effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary mission of this role?

The Supervisory IT Program Manager leads teams of IT specialists in maintaining and developing financial software systems, ensuring they meet the high standards required by the Department of Defense.

Is telework an option?

Telework is very limited and only approved on a case-by-case basis when agency leadership determines it serves a compelling DoD operational need.

What is the assessment process?

Applicants must complete the USA Hire Assessment. You will receive an invitation link after your initial application submission and must complete it within 48 hours.

What if I have a disability?

DFAS offers reasonable accommodations for the application and assessment process. Details can be found within the formal job announcement.

Can I apply if I am not currently a federal employee?

Yes, the announcement indicates if internal or external candidates are eligible. Please review the hiring path criteria carefully.

Job from Defense Finance And Accounting Service

DFAS is the financial engine of the Department of Defense. We deliver world-class financial information and pay services to the men and women who serve our country. Joining DFAS means becoming part of a dedicated team of professionals who value integrity, precision, and service. We offer a culture that promotes professional growth and encourages leadership in complex, mission-critical environments.