Program Manager

Program Manager

As required by our governmental client, this position requires active secret clearance to be considered.

A government contract requires that this position be restricted to U.S. citizens or legal permanent residents. You must provide documentation that you are a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident to qualify.

We are seeking a results-driven Program Manager to lead federal contracts, teams, and strategic initiatives that support both the client mission and Cherokee Federal's broader goals. The ideal candidate has a proven track record in overseeing complex federal projects, driving growth, improving performance, and aligning cross-functional teams with business strategy. This individual will actively manage operations and financial performance across a diverse contract portfolio, develop growth strategies, and serve as a key customer interface.

Compensation & Benefits:

Estimated Starting Salary Range for Program Manager: Pay commensurate with experience.
Full-time benefits include Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K, and other possible benefits as provided. Benefits are subject to change with or without notice.

Program Manager Responsibilities Include:

• Lead high-performing cross-functional teams in alignment with Cherokee Federal's mission and policies.
• Oversee a diverse portfolio of contracts ensuring performance targets for cost, schedule, quality, and innovation are met or exceeded.
• Identify and pursue business development opportunities to grow portfolio revenue and market presence.
• Provide frequent updates to leadership on pipeline health, contract status, and recapture strategy.
• Deliver strategic and tactical project guidance, support proposal development including past performance inputs and reviews.
• Maintain strong customer engagement through site visits, relationship management, and performance reporting.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives and respond to CPARS; lead corrective action planning.
• Develop and manage contract budgets, forecasts, and financial reporting.
• Manage subcontractors, including selection, negotiation, performance metrics, and compliance.
• Support staffing needs and talent development across the portfolio.
• Collaborate with departments and subject matter experts to ensure aligned execution and resource efficiency.
• Adapt plans based on evolving market conditions and client requirements.
• Perform other job-related duties as assigned.

Program Manager Experience, Education, Skills, Abilities Requested:

• Bachelor's degree and at least 5 years of experience managing federal government contracts; equivalent combinations of education and experience will be considered.
• PMP certification preferred.
• Demonstrated program or portfolio management expertise overseeing multiple contracts or projects simultaneously.
• Proven experience in business development, client engagement, and contract recapture.
• Strong knowledge of federal acquisition, contract compliance, and performance standards.
• Excellent leadership, team building, and communication skills.
• Advanced financial management capabilities, including budgeting, invoicing, and variance analysis.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to navigate dynamic, complex environments.
• Proposal development experience and familiarity with government proposal processes.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite; experience with Deltek Costpoint or similar ERP systems.
• Must be eligible to obtain and maintain a security clearance

Company Information:

Cherokee Nation Defense Solutions (CNDS), a division of Cherokee Federal, delivers mission-critical support services to federal clients nationwide. We provide strategic program management, engineering, and construction support to some of the nation's most important infrastructure and environmental initiatives.

As part of Cherokee Federal - a group of tribally owned companies - our mission is to solve complex challenges, support government priorities, and deliver lasting impact.
To learn more, visit cherokee-federal.com.

#CherokeeFederal #LI-PY1

Legal Disclaimer: All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to protected veteran status, disability or any other status protected under applicable federal, state or local law. Many of our job openings require access to government buildings or military installations. Candidates must pass pre-employment qualifications of Cherokee Federal.

Many of our job openings require access to government buildings or military installations. Candidates must pass pre-employment qualifications of Cherokee Federal.