DARPA Junior Action Officer

DARPA Junior Action OfficerThe Action Officer will provide direct, high-level support to a DARPA Program Director managing a portfolio of exceptionally high-dollar, high-visibility research and development programs. This role requires a highly organized, analytically strong professional capable of operating in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment with significant executive exposure.The employee will serve as a critical integrator across technical, financial, acquisition, and operational domains to ensure program success, compliance, and strategic alignment, while also performing critical executive support functions to maximize the Program Director's effectiveness and time.Key ResponsibilitiesProgrammatic & Action Officer Duties:Serve as the principal coordination point for all programmatic actions on behalf of the Program DirectorTrack, manage, and reconcile large-scale program funding (often exceeding hundreds of millions to billions of dollars) across multiple appropriations and fiscal yearsPrepare, review, and staff acquisition documentation, funding actions, and executive correspondenceEnsure compliance with Department of Defense financial management regulations, acquisition policies, and audit requirementsDevelop and maintain detailed program trackers, dashboards, and status reports for senior leadershipCoordinate with contracting officers, financial managers, technical performers, and external stakeholdersSupport program reviews, briefings, and Congressional or senior DoD engagementsIdentify risks, issues, and bottlenecks; propose actionable mitigation strategiesDraft decision memos, talking points, and strategic communications for senior leadershipManage sensitive and classified information in accordance with security protocolsExecutive Assistant Functions:Manage the Program Director's calendar, priorities, and daily schedule in a high-tempo, high-demand environmentCoordinate and deconflict meetings, secure facilities, and classified spaces as requiredPrepare briefing materials, read-ahead packages, and executive summaries for meetings and engagementsServe as gatekeeper for taskings, ensuring proper prioritization and timely executionTrack suspense items, action items, and deliverables across multiple stakeholders and ensure follow-throughCoordinate domestic and international travel, including itineraries, clearances, and country-specific requirementsDraft, review, and route correspondence, emails, and official communications on behalf of the Program DirectorFacilitate communication between the Program Director and internal/external stakeholders, including senior DoD leadershipMaintain organized records, files, and documentation in accordance with records management and security requirementsAnticipate executive needs and proactively resolve scheduling, administrative, or operational conflictsRequired QualificationsBachelor's degree in Business, Finance, Engineering, Public Administration, Arts, or related field2-5+ years of experience supporting DoD programs, acquisitions, executive leadership in a company, or financial managementStrong familiarity with DoD administrative processes, task management systems, and correspondence protocolsExceptional organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skillsAbility to operate independently and manage competing priorities under tight deadlinesExcellent written and verbal communication skills, including executive-level briefing experienceActive Top Secret (SCI eligible)Preferred QualificationsFamiliarity with advanced technology programs (AI, cyber, autonomy, space, or emerging tech)Demonstrated excellence in executive scheduling, task management, and front office operationsKey CompetenciesStrategic thinking and executive-level judgmentDiscretion and professionalism in handling sensitive informationCross-functional coordination and stakeholder managementSuperior organizational and time-management skillsProactive problem-solving and anticipation of leadership needsCompensation Details:$125K-$150KThe compensation range or hourly rate listed for this position is provided as a good-faith estimate of what the company intends to offer for this role at the time this posting was issued. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as job responsibilities, education, experience, skills, internal equity, market data, applicable collective bargaining agreements, and relevant laws.Benefits Overview:Our health and welfare benefits are designed to support you and your priorities. Offerings include:Health, dental, and vision insurancePaid time off and holidaysRetirement benefits (including 401(k) matching)Educational reimbursementParental leaveEmployee stock purchase planTax-saving optionsDisability and life insurancePet insuranceNote: Benefits may vary based on employment type, location, and applicable agreements. Positions governed by a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the McNamara-O'Hara Service Contract Act (SCA), or other employment contracts may include different provisions/benefits.