Senior Program Associate

Company DescriptionDcode is a team of doers dedicated to bridging the gap between the speed of technology and the federal government. We align people, culture, policies, and processes to get tech in the hands of those who need it most. Operating at the nexus of government leaders, emerging tech companies, and venture capital, we turn roadblocks into results.Role SummaryWe are seeking a mission-driven, detail-oriented Senior Program Associate to support the execution of high-priority initiatives for a defense sector client. This role is ideal for a professional with 2–3 years of experience who can independently execute defined workstreams while contributing to broader program success.In this role, you will help stand up and operationalize a structured “action cell” using Dcode’s RAIC methodology, supporting efforts to streamline acquisition, improve decision-making, and modernize financial planning and execution. You will produce high-quality, decision-ready deliverables, contribute to the development of repeatable processes and frameworks, and support client engagements in a fast-paced, evolving environment.Success in this role means delivering high-quality outputs with consistency, developing a strong understanding of client mission priorities, anticipating challenges, and proactively identifying opportunities for improvement.Salary range: $79,000 to $98,000 plus bi-annual bonusesTS-SCI with polygraph is strongly preferred. Eligibility for clearance is RequiredKey ResponsibilitiesProgram Leadership & DeliveryExecute defined workstreams with guidance, ensuring timely and high-quality delivery of outputsDevelop clear, structured deliverables (briefings, analyses, frameworks, and reports) that support client decision-making and program progressSupport the design, documentation, and validation of operating models, workflows, and governance structuresAssist in building and refining repeatable playbooks, decision frameworks, and program artifactsContribute to agile, sprint-based execution cycles, ensuring consistent progress and visibilityAnalysis & Problem SolvingConduct discovery and analysis to identify bottlenecks, gaps, and opportunities across acquisition, funding, and requirements processesSupport the development of decision frameworks (e.g., down-selects, risk assessments, transition readiness)Help define and track performance metrics, including cycle time, throughput, and decision velocityContribute to ROI and impact models that inform leadership decisions and future investment strategiesClient Engagement & Stakeholder SupportSupport day-to-day client interactions, including meeting preparation, note-taking, and follow-up actionsBuild an understanding of the client’s mission priorities and how program activities align to broader organizational goalsAssist in facilitating alignment across stakeholders by preparing materials and synthesizing inputsContribute to the development of communication materials that support leadership alignment and culture changeContinuous Improvement & InitiativeAnticipate potential issues and proactively suggest solutions or process improvementsCapture lessons learned and contribute to refining tools, frameworks, and methodologiesIdentify opportunities to improve efficiency, reduce delivery friction, and enhance program impactSkills And ExperienceRequired Skills and Experience2–3 years of relevant professional experience (consulting, government, defense, or related fields)Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to structure ambiguous problemsExperience producing high-quality, client-ready deliverables (PowerPoint, Excel, written reports)Strong written and verbal communication skillsAbility to manage multiple tasks and priorities in a fast-paced environmentFamiliarity with or interest in government acquisition, innovation, or technology integrationComfort working in agile, iterative delivery environmentsYou’ll Excel in This Role If You:Take ownership of your workstreams and consistently deliver high-quality outputsAre proactive in identifying problems and proposing thoughtful solutionsCan connect day-to-day tasks to broader mission and organizational prioritiesThrive in structured but fast-moving environments with evolving requirementsAre curious, adaptable, and eager to learn in a mission-driven settingAdditional InformationWe look for resilient hustlers:Our CEO busted her face on the balance beam in college and got back up… our CRO has knocked on a thousand doors, was rejected 999 times, and kept on knocking... What is your story?Equal Opportunity StatementWe provide equal opportunity to all persons without regard to ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, gender, family or parental status, national origin, veteran, or disability status. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.We believe diversity is a strength and aim to build an innovative and welcoming culture where people from all backgrounds feel respected and included. We believe that true innovation happens when everyone has the tools, resources, and opportunities to excel.Powered by JazzHRR7UTrKsY8K