Program Manager (Innovation with Academia - Student Prototyping)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Program Manager (Innovation with Academia - Student Prototyping)

Company: The Tatitlek Corporation

Location: Mountain View, California, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Program Management / Operations

Date Posted: September 09, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the planning, execution, performance, and continuous improvement of innovation programs connecting academia with national security needs, focusing on student-led prototyping initiatives.

• Serve as a primary subject matter expert and ambassador for the Innovation with Academia (IWA) Student Prototyping program, fostering collaboration across government, university, and industry stakeholders.

• Translate strategic direction into executable program plans, ensuring alignment with mission needs, milestones, and desired outcomes for rapid, early-stage prototype development.

• Manage program lifecycles, including budget oversight, risk management, performance tracking, and stakeholder communication within a high-tempo environment serving the Defense Innovation Unit's mission.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU), indicating a strong focus on national security, defense technology, and bridging the gap between academic research and practical application for government use. The "Student Prototyping" aspect emphasizes hands-on project management with university students and faculty.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead the comprehensive planning, execution, monitoring, and continuous improvement of assigned IWA student prototyping programs and initiatives.

• Translate government direction and program objectives into actionable plans, defining clear milestones, deliverables, and operational rhythms for program execution.

• Ensure the successful delivery of all program requirements, milestones, and intended outcomes, with a focus on rapid, early-stage prototype development.

• Establish, track, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) and program metrics to rigorously assess program effectiveness, participant experience, and overall impact.

• Identify and implement strategic process improvements to enhance operational efficiency, optimize participant engagement, and elevate program outcomes for both students and mission partners.

• Foster and maintain productive relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders, including senior leadership, government contractors, federal personnel, university researchers, faculty, and student teams.

• Prepare and deliver high-impact, executive-level briefings, recommendations, decision materials, and comprehensive program reports for government leadership and other key stakeholders.

• Ensure responsible stewardship of program funding, maintaining strict compliance with contractual, organizational, and regulatory requirements.

• Coordinate effectively across various IWA programs and cross-cutting functions to ensure seamless intake, handoffs, and integrated program execution.

• Develop and maintain essential program documentation, including standard operating procedures, performance records, and project histories.

• Conduct occasional travel to support program activities, stakeholder engagements, and site visits as required.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of strategic program leadership, hands-on operational execution, and strong interpersonal skills for managing a complex ecosystem of stakeholders within a government innovation context. Emphasis on "continuous improvement" and "evolving program design" suggests a need for proactive problem-solving and innovation within the program management function itself.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Program Management, Public Administration, Engineering, Education, National Security Studies, or a closely related field.

• Advanced degrees (Master's) are preferred.

• Professional certifications, such as Project Management Professional (PMP), are highly valued. Experience:

• A minimum of 10+ years of progressive experience in program management, program operations, strategic initiatives, or related roles within complex, multi-stakeholder environments.

• Demonstrated experience leading programs from initial planning through successful execution, including proficient management of priorities, milestones, deliverables, risks, dependencies, and overall outcomes.

• Proven ability to translate strategic direction into executable plans, bring structure to ambiguous situations, and adapt programs dynamically as priorities and needs evolve.

• Experience working within or closely with higher education institutions, understanding academic culture, decision-making processes, faculty and student engagement dynamics, and university operating rhythms.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a demonstrated ability to leverage data and program metrics to assess results, identify performance gaps, and drive continuous improvement initiatives.

• Proven track record of improving and evolving program design, processes, and delivery methodologies, rather than merely maintaining existing operations.

• Experience with program budgets, funding mechanisms, procurement processes, federal programs, or contractor-delivered programs is beneficial. Required Skills:

• Program Management: Expertise in full-cycle program management, from strategic planning and initiation to execution, monitoring, control, and closure.

• Stakeholder Engagement: Exceptional ability to build and maintain productive relationships with diverse stakeholders, including government, academia, industry, and internal teams.

• Operational Leadership: Proven capability to lead and coordinate cross-functional teams, drive accountability, and ensure efficient execution of program objectives.

• Strategic Planning & Execution: Skill in translating high-level strategic goals into actionable plans, defining clear objectives, milestones, and deliverables.

• Data Analysis & Performance Metrics: Strong analytical skills to establish, track, and report on KPIs, program metrics, and performance data to drive decision-making and continuous improvement.

• Communication (Written & Verbal): Excellent ability to develop clear, concise, and compelling executive-level briefings, reports, presentations, and decision materials.

• Process Improvement: Demonstrated ability to identify inefficiencies and implement innovative solutions to enhance operational effectiveness and program outcomes.

Preferred Skills:

• Academic Collaboration: Experience fostering productive partnerships with universities, understanding faculty research, student project dynamics, and academic administration.

• Defense/National Security Sector Familiarity: Knowledge of the Department of War, defense innovation ecosystems, dual-use technology, or national security challenges.

• Prototyping & Commercialization: Understanding of early-stage prototyping processes, technology development lifecycles, and pathways to commercialization or transition.

• CRM/Project Management Systems: Proficiency with tools like Salesforce, or similar platforms for managing programs, stakeholders, and project workflows.

• Government Contracting & Acquisition: Familiarity with government contracting processes, acquisition lifecycles, and program execution within federal agencies.

• Performance Measurement Frameworks: Experience developing and implementing frameworks for measuring program success and impact.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for 10+ years of experience and a Bachelor's degree, coupled with preferred advanced degrees and PMP certification, indicates a mid-to-senior level role demanding significant program management expertise. The emphasis on academic collaboration and defense innovation context is critical for candidates to highlight.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Program Management Case Studies: Showcase successful programs led from initiation to completion, detailing strategic objectives, execution phases, challenges overcome, and measurable outcomes.

• Process Improvement Initiatives: Provide examples of how you've identified operational inefficiencies and implemented structured processes to improve workflow, efficiency, or participant experience.

• Stakeholder Management Examples: Document instances of successfully managing diverse stakeholder groups, highlighting communication strategies, conflict resolution, and consensus-building efforts.

• Metrics & Performance Tracking: Demonstrate your ability to define, track, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) and program metrics, illustrating data-driven decision-making.

• System Implementation/Utilization: If applicable, provide examples of utilizing project management software, CRM systems (like Salesforce), or other technological tools to enhance program execution and reporting.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Evidence of creating clear, documented workflows for program activities, including student onboarding, project management, and stakeholder communication channels.

• Implementation & Automation Methods: Showcase how you've implemented new processes or leveraged technology to automate repetitive tasks, streamline operations, and improve efficiency.

• Measurement & Performance Analysis: Examples of establishing feedback loops and conducting post-program analysis to assess success, identify lessons learned, and inform future program iterations.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this role, the portfolio should strongly emphasize tangible results from managing complex programs, particularly those involving diverse stakeholders and innovation pipelines. Demonstrating a structured approach to process improvement and data-driven performance management will be key.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $165,000 - $172,000 annually.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• Retirement savings plan with company match (e.g., 401(k)).

• Paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.

• Professional development opportunities, including training, certifications, and conference attendance.

• Potential for performance-based bonuses or incentives.

• Access to company resources and networking opportunities within the defense innovation ecosystem. Working Hours:

• Standard full-time workweek of approximately 40 hours.

• While the role is primarily on-site, flexibility may be available based on program needs and team collaboration requirements, subject to management approval.

• Occasional evening or weekend work may be necessary to support critical program deadlines or events.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is competitive for a Program Manager role with 10+ years of experience, especially in the high-cost-of-living Bay Area and within the specialized defense innovation sector. The benefits package is typical for a corporation of this nature, with a strong emphasis on professional development aligning with the role's focus on innovation and growth.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: The Tatitlek Corporation operates within the professional, scientific, and technical services sector, with a significant focus on government contracting and defense innovation. This suggests a culture that values precision, adherence to regulations, and mission-critical execution.

Company Size: While not explicitly stated, the nature of government contracting and specialized programs like DIU often implies a medium to large organization with dedicated teams for specific initiatives.

Founded: The company's founding date isn't provided, but its involvement with entities like the Defense Innovation Unit suggests a mature organization with established processes and a track record in serving government needs.

Team Structure:

• Operations Focus: This role sits within the Innovation with Academia (IWA) program, likely a specialized unit within The Tatitlek Corporation dedicated to bridging defense needs with academic talent.

• Reporting: The Program Manager will report to senior leadership within the IWA program or a broader operations/program management division at Tatitlek.

• Collaboration: Expect extensive cross-functional collaboration with government liaisons (at DIU), university faculty and researchers, student teams, and potentially other contractors involved in prototyping or technology transition.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Approach: The role emphasizes the use of KPIs, program metrics, and data analysis to assess effectiveness, identify gaps, and drive continuous improvement.

• Process Optimization: A core aspect of the role involves identifying and implementing process improvements to enhance operational efficiency and program outcomes.

• Agile/Iterative Development: Given the focus on rapid prototyping and innovation, methodologies that support iterative development, feedback loops, and adaptability will likely be prevalent.

Company Website: https://careers-tatitlek.icims.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's focus on government contracting and innovation within the defense sector suggests a professional, results-oriented culture. The specific IWA program likely operates with a high degree of autonomy and requires strong initiative and adaptability.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This position represents a senior-level Program Management role. It demands significant experience in leading complex, multi-stakeholder initiatives, with a focus on strategic execution and operational excellence. The scope includes not just managing projects but also shaping and improving program design and delivery.

Reporting Structure: The Program Manager will likely report to a Director or Senior Manager overseeing innovation programs, with direct interaction with government stakeholders at DIU and potentially higher levels of The Tatitlek Corporation's leadership.

Operations Impact: The role has a direct impact on advancing national security objectives by facilitating the development and transition of innovative technologies and policy solutions from academic research into usable capabilities for the Department of War. Success in this role contributes to the DIU's mission of accelerating the adoption of cutting-edge technology for defense.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Expansion: Potential to lead larger or more complex innovation programs, manage multiple program portfolios, or move into strategic leadership roles within The Tatitlek Corporation's innovation or operations divisions.

• Specialization Development: Deepen expertise in defense innovation, university partnerships, technology prototyping, or specific defense technology domains.

• Cross-Functional Leadership: Opportunities to lead cross-functional teams on high-priority initiatives, gain exposure to different facets of government contracting and defense technology development.

• Mentorship: Potential to mentor junior program managers or team members, sharing expertise in program execution and stakeholder management.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a significant growth trajectory within the specialized field of defense innovation and academic partnerships. The experience gained in managing complex, mission-critical programs within the DIU framework can be highly valuable for future leadership opportunities in government contracting or technology innovation sectors.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is designated as "On-site" in Mountain View, California, indicating a traditional office setting. This environment will likely foster direct collaboration and team synergy.

Office Location(s): Mountain View, California, a hub for technology and innovation, offering proximity to universities and other research institutions. The specific office details will likely be provided upon engagement.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Expect an office space designed to facilitate teamwork, with shared workspaces, meeting rooms, and potentially areas for informal discussions crucial for innovation programs.

• Technology & Tools: Access to standard office technology, computers, and potentially specialized software or platforms relevant to program management, data analysis, and communication. The job description mentions proficiency with AI-enabled tools and CRM/project management systems.

• Team Interaction: Frequent interaction with immediate team members, cross-functional colleagues, and external partners (government officials, university representatives) through meetings, presentations, and collaborative sessions.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is approximately 40 hours per week, with the expectation of on-site presence. However, the dynamic nature of innovation programs and government projects may necessitate occasional flexibility, including potential evening or weekend work to meet critical deadlines or support events.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement in Mountain View suggests a traditional corporate office environment where in-person collaboration is prioritized. Candidates should be prepared for a structured work setting that supports the rigorous demands of government program management.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application to assess alignment with the core requirements, particularly the 10+ years of experience and relevant background.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion with the hiring manager to delve deeper into your program management experience, leadership style, understanding of innovation ecosystems, and suitability for the IWA program. Be prepared to discuss specific examples from your career.

• Portfolio Review / Case Study Presentation: You may be asked to present a portfolio showcasing your previous program management successes, process improvements, and stakeholder engagement strategies. This could involve detailing a specific project, its challenges, and its outcomes. Focus on quantifiable results and strategic thinking.

• Team / Stakeholder Interviews: Interviews with potential colleagues, senior leaders, and possibly representatives from DIU or partner universities to assess cultural fit, collaborative abilities, and subject matter expertise.

• Final Interview: A concluding interview, likely with senior leadership, to discuss overall fit, career aspirations, and final decision-making.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Quantify Achievements: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your solution, your role, and the measurable impact (e.g., improved efficiency by X%, reduced costs by Y%, successfully transitioned Z prototypes).

• Showcase Process Improvement: Detail your methodology for identifying and implementing process enhancements. Use a structured approach (e.g., problem identification, analysis, solution, implementation, results).

• Highlight Stakeholder Management: Provide concrete examples of how you've managed diverse stakeholder expectations, navigated complex relationships, and fostered collaboration.

• Tailor to Defense Innovation: Where possible, align your portfolio examples with the context of innovation, technology development, academia, and government programs. Emphasize your ability to operate in a regulated and mission-driven environment.

• Clarity and Conciseness: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, easy to understand, and directly addresses the requirements of the Program Manager role.

Challenge Preparation:

• Strategic Thinking: Be prepared to discuss how you would approach the unique challenges of the IWA program, such as bridging academic and defense cultures, managing student projects, and ensuring timely prototype delivery.

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Anticipate questions about how you would handle common program management challenges like budget constraints, scope creep, stakeholder conflicts, or unforeseen technical issues.

• Innovation Mindset: Demonstrate your understanding of innovation processes and your ability to foster an innovative environment within the student prototyping context.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely focus heavily on practical experience and demonstrable success in program management, particularly within complex, multi-stakeholder environments. A strong portfolio showcasing process improvement and quantifiable results will be a significant asset.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Proficiency with leading project management platforms (e.g., Asana, Jira, Trello, Microsoft Project) for task management, scheduling, and progress tracking.

• CRM Systems: Experience with CRM solutions, particularly Salesforce, for managing stakeholder relationships, tracking interactions, and potentially managing program pipelines.

• Collaboration Suites: Expertise in utilizing tools like Microsoft 365 (Teams, SharePoint, Outlook) or Google Workspace for communication, document sharing, and team collaboration.

• Presentation Software: Advanced skills in PowerPoint or similar tools for creating executive-level briefings and reports.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Familiarity with tools or methodologies for analyzing program data, such as Excel (advanced functions, pivot tables), Tableau, Power BI, or specialized analytics platforms.

• Reporting Dashboards: Ability to create and interpret performance dashboards to monitor KPIs and communicate program status effectively.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems (e.g., Salesforce): As mentioned, Salesforce is a preferred tool, indicating a need for experience in managing contacts, accounts, and potentially workflows within a CRM.

• Workflow Automation: Understanding of how to leverage technology to automate repetitive tasks, streamline processes, and improve operational efficiency within a program context.

• AI-Enabled Tools: The job description specifically mentions proficiency with AI-enabled tools, suggesting an expectation to utilize AI for tasks such as data analysis, report generation, or process optimization.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with Salesforce and AI-enabled tools are specifically called out as preferred or expected skills, highlighting the company's investment in modern technology for program management and operational efficiency.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Mission Focus: A strong commitment to serving the mission of the Defense Innovation Unit and advancing national security objectives through innovation.

• Excellence & Precision: A dedication to high-quality execution, attention to detail, and adherence to standards in program management and operations.

• Collaboration & Partnership: Valuing strong working relationships and effective collaboration across government, academic, and industry partners.

• Innovation & Adaptability: Embracing new ideas, fostering creative problem-solving, and demonstrating flexibility in a dynamic environment.

• Integrity & Accountability: Upholding ethical standards and taking ownership of program outcomes and responsibilities.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The role requires seamless collaboration with diverse teams, including government program managers, university researchers, student participants, and internal corporate functions.

• Proactive Communication: An emphasis on clear, timely, and transparent communication to keep all stakeholders informed and aligned.

• Feedback-Driven Improvement: A culture that encourages open feedback, constructive criticism, and continuous learning to refine processes and enhance program effectiveness.

• Results-Oriented Teamwork: A focus on achieving collective goals and delivering tangible outcomes, with a shared sense of responsibility for program success.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture likely blends the structured, mission-driven environment of government contracting with the dynamic, innovative spirit required for defense technology advancement. Strong interpersonal and communication skills are paramount for navigating this multifaceted environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Bridging Diverse Cultures: Effectively managing differing incentives, communication styles, and operational rhythms between government, academia, and corporate entities.

• Managing Student Prototypes: Navigating the complexities of working with undergraduate and graduate students, including varying levels of experience, academic commitments, and project management maturity.

• Rapid Prototyping Cycles: Ensuring timely delivery of prototypes within accelerated timelines, often requiring agile methodologies and quick problem-solving.

• Navigating Bureaucracy: Understanding and adhering to government regulations, procurement processes, and reporting requirements while maintaining program agility.

• Resource Allocation: Optimizing the use of program funding and resources across multiple student projects and initiatives to maximize impact.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Defense Innovation Ecosystem: Gain deep insights into emerging technologies, defense needs, and the landscape of university research relevant to national security.

• Advanced Program Management: Develop expertise in managing complex government programs, including specialized contracting, compliance, and reporting.

• Stakeholder Management Mastery: Hone skills in navigating high-stakes relationships with senior government officials, academic leaders, and industry partners.

• Technology Prototyping: Enhance understanding of the technology development lifecycle, from conceptualization through prototyping and potential transition.

• Leadership & Strategy: Opportunities to influence program strategy, lead cross-functional teams, and contribute to the overall growth of innovation initiatives within The Tatitlek Corporation.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant opportunities for professional growth by immersing candidates in the critical intersection of defense, innovation, and academia. Overcoming the inherent challenges will build highly valuable skills and experience.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your experience translating high-level strategic goals into executable program plans and operational rhythms within a complex environment." (Focus on structured planning, milestone definition, and adaptability.)

• "How have you managed and fostered collaboration among diverse stakeholders with differing incentives, such as government officials, academic researchers, and industry partners?" (Highlight your communication strategies, relationship-building skills, and conflict resolution.)

• "Walk us through a time you identified a significant operational inefficiency in a program you managed and how you implemented a process improvement. What were the results?" (Detail your problem-solving methodology, implementation steps, and quantifiable impact.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you most about The Tatitlek Corporation and the Defense Innovation Unit's mission?" (Research DIU's mission, recent projects, and connect it to your career aspirations.)

• "How would you approach building trust and rapport with university faculty and student teams who may have different priorities than traditional defense contractors?" (Emphasize understanding academic culture, demonstrating value, and clear communication.)

• "How do you ensure accountability and drive follow-through from external partners and teams, especially when they are not direct reports?" (Discuss methods like clear SLAs, regular check-ins, performance metrics, and collaborative problem-solving.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each portfolio example, use a STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) or similar framework to clearly articulate the context, your role, the actions taken, and the outcomes achieved.

• Quantify Everything Possible: Whenever presenting metrics, ensure they are specific and measurable (e.g., "Increased prototype submission rate by 25%," "Reduced program onboarding time by 15%," "Successfully transitioned 3 prototypes to further development").

• Highlight Process & Impact: Clearly explain the processes you implemented or improved and the tangible impact these had on the program's success, efficiency, or stakeholder satisfaction.

• Showcase Adaptability: Be ready to discuss how you adapted plans or strategies in response to changing requirements, unforeseen challenges, or new information.

• Connect to Defense Innovation: If possible, frame your experience within the context of innovation, technology development, or government programs to demonstrate relevance to this specific role.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not only strong program management fundamentals but also an understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities within defense innovation, academia, and student-led prototyping. Quantifiable results and clear process articulation are key for portfolio presentations.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the The Tatitlek Corporation careers portal.

• Portfolio Customization: Curate your resume and any supplementary materials to prominently feature your experience in program management, innovation initiatives, academic collaborations, and stakeholder engagement. Prepare specific case studies detailing your successes in process improvement and driving measurable outcomes.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly highlights your 10+ years of relevant experience, bachelor's degree, and any preferred qualifications like PMP certification or experience with government programs and Salesforce. Use keywords from the job description to align with ATS scanning.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your experience using the STAR method, focusing on quantifiable achievements and your approach to complex stakeholder management and process improvement. Prepare specific examples relevant to innovation, academia, and defense contexts.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research The Tatitlek Corporation and the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU). Understand DIU's mission, current focus areas, and how the Innovation with Academia program contributes to their objectives. This will help you tailor your responses and demonstrate genuine interest.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.