Program Manager (San Diego)

Data Intelligence, LLC is seeking a Program Manager to support one of our premier clients in the defense industry. This role is located in San Diego, CA, and will focus on leading large-scale naval training and systems programs supporting operational forces. The ideal candidate is a former senior Navy leader with deep experience in surface warfare operations, training, certification, and DoD systems, combined with strong program management and technical oversight capabilities.Key ResponsibilitiesLead and manage large-scale naval training and systems programs supporting surface fleet operations Provide strategic oversight of shipboard training, operations, maintenance, and readiness initiatives Oversee development and integration of DoD training systems and supporting technologies Supervise software development lifecycle activities, including requirements gathering, design, development, testing, and deployment Coordinate cross-functional teams across operations, engineering, and training domains Develop and implement process improvements to enhance operational efficiency and mission readiness Interface with senior Navy leadership, government stakeholders, and program offices Support and guide surface ship certification processes at both ship and major command levels Develop and deliver high-level briefings to flag officers, coalition partners, and congressional stakeholders Ensure alignment with Navy training doctrine, architecture, and readiness frameworks Required QualificationsMaster’s Degree in a technical field or related discipline 20+ years of U.S. Navy surface warfare experience Prior experience serving in both: Commander Command Afloat Major Command Afloat Extensive shipboard operational experience managing training, operations, maintenance, and repair at a senior leadership level (e.g., Commanding Officer, Squadron/Task Group Commander, CSG/ESG Warfare Commander or Senior Staff) 5+ years of experience managing large-scale, complex programs, preferably focused on military training systems Experience serving on Major Command or Flag Staff at a senior officer level 10+ years of experience in surface ship mission area certification processes at the ship level 5+ years of experience supporting certification processes at the major staff level (e.g., TYCOM, Strike Group, ISIC, or Training Command) 5+ years of experience with DoD Information Systems 5+ years of experience supervising software development processes, including: Requirements gathering System design and analysis Development tools and technologies Testing methodologies Release and deployment management Project management experience with the ability to manage multiple efforts in a cross-functional environment Demonstrated experience driving operational efficiencies and process improvements Experience developing and delivering briefings to senior flag-level and congressional audiences Knowledge of Navy systems architecture or DoD training systems architecture Expertise in Navy surface ship training processes Expert knowledge of the Surface Force Training and Readiness Manual (SFTRM) Strong understanding of software development processes Preferred QualificationsPrior experience supporting Navy training commands or fleet readiness programs Familiarity with advanced modeling, simulation, or training systems Experience working in joint or coalition environments Strong leadership presence with the ability to influence senior stakeholders PMP or other program management certification