The Program Manager (PM) serves as the primary point of contact and overall lead for the client’s contract, responsible for contract execution, personnel management, performance oversight, and customer satisfaction. This position ensures all contract deliverables, staffing, quality assurance, and reporting requirements are fulfilled in accordance with the client’s standards. The Program Manager oversees all task areas, including technical operations, maintenance, logistics, safety, and program administration, ensuring that all work aligns with the SOW’s performance objectives and mission requirements.

The PM manages program budgets, schedules, and risk, ensuring resources are allocated efficiently and all personnel operate safely and effectively. The role requires close coordination with the client’s point of contact (POC), contracting officers, and on-site supervisors to ensure responsive support for mission requirements, accurate data reporting, and compliance with all contractual commitments. The Program Manager is ultimately accountable for contract performance, quality assurance, and the overall readiness of the client’s vessel and its supporting assets.

This position performs all duties and responsibilities in accordance with the Mission, Vision, and Core Values of Cayuse.

The Program Manager leads all aspects of contract performance and execution, ensuring technical, administrative, and financial success of the program while maintaining compliance with contractual, regulatory, and safety standards.

• Provide overall management and leadership for contract execution, ensuring full compliance with SOW requirements.
• Serve as the primary liaison with the client’s point of contact and program stakeholders.
• Oversee all functional areas including operations, maintenance, logistics, administration, and safety to ensure mission success.
• Work with Cayuse HR and Recruiting to manage staffing, recruitment, and performance of all personnel, ensuring qualified and certified staff in accordance with the SOW.
• Establish and enforce quality assurance and configuration management procedures per contract data deliverables.
• Develop and monitor program schedules, budgets, and deliverables, ensuring alignment with performance metrics and key milestones.
• Coordinate preventive and corrective maintenance activities with engineering and operations leads, ensuring vessel and system readiness.
• Ensure timely submission of all required deliverables including the Preventive Maintenance Plan (PMP), Maintenance Summary Log (MSL), and readiness reports
• Identify and mitigate performance, schedule, or cost risks through proactive communication and issue resolution.
• Lead regular program reviews, reporting progress, performance metrics, and risk management updates to government stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with all safety, environmental, and security protocols including OSHA, OPNAVINST 5100.19F, and PMRFINST 5100.2J.
• Promote a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement across all contract operations.
• Support audits, inspections, and data calls from the client and other oversight entities.
• Manage subcontractor performance, ensuring adherence to schedule, cost, and quality standards.
• Provide leadership and mentorship to on-site supervisors and technical teams to ensure consistent performance and professional development.
• Other duties as assigned.

•  Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business Administration, Marine Operations, or related field required.
• Equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered for exceptional candidates.
• U.S. Coast Guard–Approved Advanced Firefighting Course (or refresher within the past five years).
• U.S. Coast Guard-Approved Able-Bodied Seaman (ABS) Course (current or able to complete within 45 days of hire)
•  USCG Medical Certificate (CG-719K) with Food Handler Certification (Section II) per OPNAVINST 4061.4A
• Minimum 10 years of experience in program or project management, with at least 5 years supporting DoD, Navy, or maritime operations.
• Demonstrated experience managing complex technical programs involving engineering, logistics, and field operations.
• Proven record of managing multi-disciplinary teams, including at-sea and shore-based personnel.

 Experience overseeing compliance with ABS, NAVSEA, and USCG standards for vessel operations and maintenance.

• Strong financial acumen, including budgeting, forecasting, and contract cost control.
• Experience managing subcontractors and coordinating with government contracting offices.
• Familiarity with FAR/DFARS, SOW-driven performance, and CPFF or CPIF contract management.
• Comprehensive understanding of program and project management principles, including scheduling, cost control, and risk management.
• Knowledge of Navy maintenance, logistics, and operational support frameworks.
• Familiarity with ABS, NAVSEA, and USCG regulations for vessel and marine system compliance.
•  Understanding of acquisition and contract management processes, including reporting and quality assurance.
• Secret Clearance Required
• Must be able to pass a background check. May require additional background checks as required by projects and/or clients at any time during employment.

Minimum Skills:

• Skilled in technical writing and reporting, including preparation of briefings, CDRLs, and program documentation.
• Effective interpersonal and negotiation skills to coordinate with multiple stakeholders
• Ability to lead diverse technical teams and motivate personnel toward mission success.
• Ability to develop and implement strategies that align with customer objectives and performance goals.
• Ability to operate effectively under pressure, balancing competing priorities in a fast-paced operational environment.
• Ability to interpret and execute contractual requirements while maintaining compliance with regulations.
• Ability to travel and support at-sea operations when required to oversee performance or readiness assessments.
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills with high-level attention to detail.

• Proven ability to multitask and prioritize in a fast past environment with changing priorities; adaptable to change and a quick learner.
• Must be self-motivated and able to work well independently as well as on a multi-functional team.
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information appropriately
• Proficient in MS Office, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, and Excel.

 Desired Qualifications:

• Master’s degree

• PMP (Project Management Professional) certification.

PMP or DAWIA Level II/III certification in Program or Project Management

Other Duties: Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job.  Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Cayuse is an Equal Opportunity Employer.  All employment decisions are based on merit, qualifications, skills, and abilities. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment in accordance with any applicable federal, state, or local law.