Established in 2021, Darkhive builds hardware and software solutions designed to seamlessly integrate into the military defense system. We offer tactical uncrewed systems, human-machine interfaces, and software continuous delivery platforms.

Darkhive is a company of U.S. Special Operations veterans, engineers, robotics perception experts, DevSecOps, defense technology executives, and superb support staff—above all, we are a mission-first team. We believe that the U.S. and our allies around the world deserve high-quality, affordable tools that keep them safe when each second counts.

If you are a free-thinking problem solver who is looking for a highly collaborative and innovative environment, apply with Darkhive today!

Project Manager

Scope creep, schedule slippage, and budget overruns… you've seen what happens when these aren't managed well, and you know how to prevent it. As a Project Manager on our team, you'll be the driving force behind keeping DoD programs disciplined and on course. From establishing clear scope boundaries and maintaining realistic schedules in project planning tools, to tracking spend and optimizing resource allocation, your work will directly determine whether critical defense programs hit their targets. If you're the kind of PM who takes ownership and delivers results, this is your role.

Must be located in the Washington D.C. area. Travel expectation of up to 25%. This is a full-time position.

Key Responsibilities

• Program Execution: Lead the management of cost, schedule, and performance for Army and DoD programs, ensuring all deliverables meet mission-critical requirements.
• Stakeholder & Vendor Liaison: Serve as the primary point of contact for government stakeholders, suppliers, and internal engineering teams to facilitate seamless communication and resolve technical or logistical blockers.
• Acquisition Management: Navigate the DoD Acquisition Life Cycle, managing program milestones, decision points, and documentation requirements.
• Financial Oversight: Monitor project spend, track budgets, and optimize resource allocation to prevent overruns and ensure contract compliance.
• Risk Mitigation: Proactively identify project risks and implement robust management strategies and tools to keep programs on track.
• Schedule & Planning: Develop and maintain detailed project schedules and work breakdown structures (WBS) using modern project management tools.
• Continuous Improvement: Partner with leadership to refine internal PM processes, ensuring the team remains agile and responsive to evolving mission needs.

Qualifications

• Experience: 5+ years of experience managing or assisting with the management of cost, schedule, and performance for Army or DoD programs.
• Tools & Methodology: Proven proficiency with project management software (e.g., Jira, GitLab, MS Project) and structured methodologies.
• Communication: Exceptional ability to influence and motivate cross-functional teams and manage complex relationships with industry partners and stakeholders.
• Business Acumen: Strong financial management capabilities and a solid understanding of business operations within the defense sector.
• Travel: Ability to travel up to 25% of the time to support onsite testing or stakeholder meetings.
• Clearance: Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance.
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.
• Certification: PMP or equivalent program management experience on federal government contracts

Bonus Qualifications 

• Veteran Status: Military veterans are strongly encouraged to apply.
• Advanced Degree: Master’s degree in Business, Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Current Clearance: Possession of an active Top Secret clearance.
• Soft Skills: Exceptional leadership, analytical problem-solving, and the ability to work independently in a high-speed, dynamic startup environment.

Physical and/or Mental Requirements

• Ability to sit and/or stand for periods of time.
• Ability to use a keyboard, mouse, and other equipment with or without accommodations.
• Ability to maintain awareness during business hours.
• Ability to lift up to 15 pounds.
• Excellent written and verbal communication and good command of the English language.
• Learns and memorizes routine tasks.
• Reasonable accommodations will be provided to any person with a disability to be able to perform the essential job functions of this position.
• Darkhive retains the right to change or assign other duties as required for this position.

Selection Process

• Hiring team reviews applications
• 20-minute pre-screen with Darkhive recruiter
• 30-minute phone screen with the hiring manager
• Take home project
• In-person or video interview with hiring team

Benefits Darkhive Offers

• Comprehensive medical plans
• 100% employer paid dental and vision insurance premiums
• Automatic 401k employer contribution with vesting
• Vacation and personal time off
• 11 Paid holidays
• 5 days of sick leave
• Stock options
• Welcoming and friendly work environment
• Respect of work-life balance

Darkhive is an equal-opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment against any employee or applicant because of race, color, gender (including pregnancy), age, gender identity, creed, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, marital status, genetic information, disability, political affiliation, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local law.