PROGRAM ADMINISTRATOR (NUCLEAR SYSTEMS)
Defense Threat Reduction Agency
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At a glance
Requirements
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Job overview
The Program Administrator (Nuclear Systems) will serve as an expert on highly complex defense programs, making strategic recommendations, directing long‑range studies, and leading a team researching AI and machine learning solutions. The role plans and coordinates operations, resolves critical issues, and holds final authority to implement changes while ensuring necessary resources are available.
Skills & qualifications
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Full job description
Summary This position may be filled using Direct Hire Authority: Z5CAV/Direct-Hire Authority (Certain DoD Personnel) PL 118-31, Sec 125OB (i)(2), 12/22/2023. This position is being filled under the memorandum from the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness (USD(P&R)) "Expansion of Direct Hire Authority for Certain Personnel of the Department of War," dated December 19,2025. This position is part of the Defense Threat Reduction Agency, Nuclear Enterprise Directorate. Responsibilities As a PROGRAM ADMINISTRATOR (NUCLEAR SYSTEMS) at the GS-0301-14 some of your typical work assignments may include: Serves as an expert on programs that are extremely complex with significant national, international, or homeland defense scope and impact. Makes recommendations that have profound implications on support, funding and implementation of programs. Plans, organizes, and directs studies to develop long-range (e.g., 5 + years) studies and forecasts and advises top level agency officials and subject matter managers on applying new developments and advances in communications-computer techniques. Leads the team in researching and engaging in small business innovation research focused on cutting edge technologies to automate some manpower intensive functions using technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and software validation applications. Plans, schedules, and coordinates work operations; provides continuing directions; answers questions; and resolves the most unusual and controversial problems. The PA has the final authority to direct and implement all changes to the system and the responsibility for ensuring that the program has the necessary resources to carry out these actions. Requirements Conditions of Employment Qualifications You may qualify at the GS-14, if you fulfill the following qualifications: A. One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-13 grade level in the Federal service as listed below: Managing the program elements of an enterprise-wide software program, ensuring compliance with national, federal, or corporate industry standards and regulatory directives; Identified, assessed, and mitigated programmatic and operational risks using analytical methodologies and technologies to ensure business or mission continuity; Analyzed and reviewed software development business processes, identifying inefficiencies and recommending strategic improvements to optimize the development lifecycle; Coordinating major technical programs or strategic projects across diverse multi-organizational stakeholders, executive leadership, or external partner agencies Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Education Substitution of education may not be used in lieu of specialized experience for this grade level. Additional Information Other Notes: ACQUISITION POSITION: This position requires a Defense Acquisition Workforce Improvement Act (DAWIA) Program Management, Practitioner level. Certification prior to hiring is not essential but must be accomplished within 60 months after entry into this position. For information regarding the DAWIA Back to Basics please visit: Home (dau.edu) or Back to Basics - Helpful Resources (dau.edu) DAWIA (Back to Basics) Certification: NON-CAP: Position requires DoD Acquisition Program Management, Practitioner level certification within required timeframes. Selectee must also achieve 80 hours of Continuous Learning Points (CLPs) every 2-years. Click here for more details and Resources. RE-EMPLOYED ANNUITANT: This position does not meet criteria for re-employed annuitant. The DoD criteria for hiring Re-employed Annuitants can be found at: https://www.esd.whs.mil/Portals/54/Documents/DD/issuances/140025/140025\_vol300.PDF?ver=LQ7feWw-8-5DI2tceUpmgA%3d%3d All applicants must meet qualifications and eligibility criteria by the closing date of the announcement. This position is subject to an initial drug screening, and random testing thereafter. A negative drug test result must be received by HR within 30 calendar days after the EOD (i.e., start date). The selectee's inability successfully pass; or refusal to conduct the test may result in: 1) the tentative or FJO being withdrawn during the recruitment process; or 2) subsequently being removed from Federal service for failure to meet a condition of employment. You may be required to sign a "Drug Test Statement of Understanding" if you are selected for this position. Males born after 12-31-59 must be registered or exempt from Selective Service (see Who Needs to Register | Selective Service System : Selective Service System (sss.gov))
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