U.S. Defense Program & Operations Lead
Are you ready to revolutionise the world with TEKEVER? 🚀🌍
At TEKEVER, we lead innovation in Europe as the European leader in unmanned technology, where cutting-edge advancements meet unparalleled innovation.
💻 Digital | 🛡️ Defence | 🔒 Security | 🛰️ Space
We operate across four strategic areas, combining artificial intelligence, systems engineering, data science, and aerospace technology to tackle global challenges — from protecting people and critical infrastructure to exploring space.
We offer a unique surveillance-as-a-service solution that delivers real-time intelligence, enhancing maritime safety and saving lives. Our products and services support strategic and operational decisions in the most demanding environments — whether at sea, on land, in space, or in cyberspace.
🌐 Become part of a dynamic, multidisciplinary, and mission-driven team that is transforming maritime surveillance and redefining global safety standards.
At TEKEVER, our mission is to provide limitless support through mission-oriented game-changers, delivering the right information at the right time to empower critical decision-making.
If you're passionate about technology and eager to shape the future — TEKEVER is the place for you. 👇🏻🎯
Mission:
We are seeking a highly experienced U.S. Defense Program & Operations Lead to serve as the linchpin of our new U.S. office. This role connects corporate strategy with operational execution while navigating the complexities of the U.S. defense acquisition environment.
What will be your responsibilities:
Program Management & Acquisition
Lead acquisition strategy and execution across defense platforms in compliance with United States Department of Defense regulations, including FAR and DFARS
Manage end-to-end program execution—from opportunity identification through competitive down-selection
Collaborate with engineering, finance, contracts, and legal teams to define scope, schedules, budgets, and performance metrics
Ensure programs are delivered on time, within budget, and aligned with contractual requirements
Test & Evaluation (T&E) Oversight
Develop test strategies and acceptance criteria aligned with U.S. Government requirements and MIL-STD frameworks
Oversee third-party and government-led testing events
Analyze test data to generate technical insights and programmatic recommendations
Ensure traceability between requirements, verification activities, and performance outcomes
Business Development Support
Identify and qualify new U.S. defense opportunities in coordination with East Coast business development leadership
Support capture planning, proposal development, and teaming strategies
Build and maintain relationships with prime contractors, government program offices, and T&E facilities
Contribute to long-term market positioning and growth strategy
Operational Alignment & Cross-Functional Collaboration
Serve as the primary liaison between the U.S. satellite office and headquarters
Standardize reporting structures, processes, and program KPIs
Deliver executive-level updates on program performance, forecasts, budgets, and test outcomes
Ensure alignment across time zones and cross-functional teams
Profile and requirements:
Required Qualifications
8–12 years of experience in U.S. defense program management, acquisitions, budgeting, and test & evaluation
Strong knowledge of DoD acquisition processes, FAR/DFARS regulations, MIL-STD testing frameworks, and competitive down-selection practices
Demonstrated success managing complex defense programs on schedule and within budget
Experience interpreting technical test data to inform programmatic and strategic decisions
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Proven ability to build and maintain relationships with government and industry stakeholders
Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, a technical discipline, or Business
Mandatory Requirements
Minimum 5 years of experience supporting DoD/government logistics and training programs (experience with autonomous systems preferred)
Demonstrated leadership experience organizing, planning, scheduling, and coordinating multi-disciplinary workstreams
Prior experience standing up or supporting a new office, division, or operational function
Experience working with both U.S. government customers and international headquarters teams
Eligibility to work in the United States
Ability to comply with U.S. export control regulations, including ITAR/EAR technologies
Ability to obtain and maintain required security clearances or site access approvals
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with ISR, autonomous systems, or UAS platforms
Active U.S. security clearance (Secret or higher preferred)
Experience with defense prime contractor environments
Advanced degree (MS/MBA)
Compensation & Benefits
TEKEVER offers a competitive total rewards package designed to support the well-being and success of our employees. Benefits may include:
Competitive base salary
Performance-based bonus opportunities
Retirement savings plan (401(k))
Paid time off and company holidays
Paid sick leave
Health insurance coverage
Compensation Transparency
Compensation within the posted salary range will be determined based on factors such as skills, experience, qualifications, and work location, consistent with applicable laws.
Pre-Employment Requirements
Employment offers may be contingent upon successful completion of a background check and reference verification, in accordance with applicable laws and company policy.
Equal Employment Opportunity
TEKEVER is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.
Do you want to know more about us ?
Visit our LinkedIn page at https://www.linkedin.com/company/tekever/
- Department
- OPERATIONS
- Locations
- (US) Tekever North Carolina