SOULFORGE Program Manager

OPEN TO ALL QUALIFIED US CITIZENS.

This announcement will be accepting candidate submissions until 11:45 PM EST, 15 October 2026.

AFRL/RF in Rome, NY is seeking a highly skilled and motivated scientist or engineer to fill the role of program manager for the SOULFORGE portfolio at the DR-03 (GS-14 or equivalent) level. AFRL/RF executes programs in this portfolio for both internal AFRL groups along with a wide range of customers through the Department of War (DoW). The SOULFORGE program manager will be responsible for maintaining close collaboration with both technical performers and the warfighter to accelerate the research, development, and transition of innovative cyber technologies. This is accomplished through leveraging the technical and programmatic expertise at AFRL/RF, and it will be the job of the program manager to coordinate and position these skill sets to achieve the portfolio goals. This is a high visibility, rewarding position that supports the National Defense Strategy and will influence the lives and careers of numerous individuals.

Position duties include, but are not limited to:

• Engage with warfighter organizations to coordinate the research and development of innovative technologies to address challenges faced across a wide range of operational environments.
• Integrate world-class research and development programs based upon existing and anticipated Air Force and Space Force requirements and leveraging national activities.
• Actively coordinate and advise AFRL and other DoW agencies such as Cyber Command, OUSD(R&E), and DARPA or other national and international organizations in these areas.
• Prepares, reviews, or directs briefings and decision papers which inform AFRL and peer organizations across the research community on the status and advances in these programs.
• Program management as directed by the SOULFORGE portfolio lead as it relates to budget, schedule, contract management, risk reduction, reporting and information protection.
• Uses knowledge of fields to respond to changing priorities within the Department of the Air Force to align team in a dynamic environment; and performs other duties as assigned.

• United States Citizenship.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance.
• Master's degree from an accredited degree program in cybersecurity, cryptography, computer science, computer engineering, mathematics, or related field.
• This is a drug testing designated position. The incumbent will be subject to random testing.
• This is an Acquisition Professional Development Program (APDP) position that requires Practitioner Level certification in Engineering & Technology Management (ETM). The selectee will have two years to meet APDP requirements.
• Applicants must have at least one (1) year of specialized experience at the next lower grade DR-02 (GS-12/13 or equivalent) in other pay systems.

• Experience teaming with Air Force civilian and military personnel, other DoW services, and industry personnel.
• Outstanding leadership and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to communicate progress to management and stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to lead teams and resolve conflicts/problems.
• An understanding of USAF and DoW instructions, processes, and regulations, especially those related to acquisition policies and requirements.
• Experience working with or within the Department of Defense research community.
• Cultivates and sustains a professional environment of cooperation, cohesion and teamwork.
• Experience with developing and maintaining close relationships with the private sector and other Government agencies for Applied Research.

• We offer some additional workplace flexibilities, such as flexible work schedules and situational telework options (as determined by the supervisor).
• Benefits of a government employee include, Federal Employee Health Benefits, Annual Leave, Sick Leave, Federal Holidays off, Pension, Thrift Savings Plan, and more.
• Information on Federal Benefits and Retirement can be found on OPM.gov.

Resume requirement: Resume may not exceed two pages, and font size should be no smaller than 10pts.

Instructions on how to submit your resume are provided in the automated email you will receive once you apply.

Requisition Number 31109