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Project Manager 1 - Part-time (TS w/SCI eligibility)
Ridgecrest, CAApril 5th, 2026
OverviewAMERICAN SYSTEMS is seeking a Project Manager I to fill a part-time role supporting the Exodus Multi-Level Security (MLS) Program at Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake, CA. The Exodus program provides secure multi-domain information-sharing capabilities in support of Department of the Navy's missions.ResponsibilitiesAs a part-time Project Manager I for AMERICAN SYSTEMS, you will:Develop, implement, and manage the Exodus Project Management Plan (PM Plan) to ensure deliverables meet all contractual, technical, and quality standards.Serve as the primary liaison between the Contractor Support Services (CSS) team, Government COR, and program stakeholders.Participate in weekly Exodus Operations meetings to capture requirement changes, new task triggers, and funding adjustments, ensuring plans remain current and actionable.Work closely with government financial managers to validate commitments, obligations, and expenditures in alignment with Navy fiscal-year cycles, continuing resolutions, and funding expiration rules.Maintain and refine a complex, multi-customer cost-sharing model in Excel, using advanced functions (defined names, SUMIFS/COUNTIFS, INDEX, MATCH, pivot tables) to accurately track and project recurring and non-recurring costs across customers.Analyze and forecast plan-vs-actual-vs-projection data to support budget formulation, variance analysis, and accurate financial reporting.Apply cost accounting and mathematical principles to support pricing, cost estimating, revenue planning, and annual financial forecasts.Collaborate with government PMs, COR, program analysts, and engineers to develop cost estimates, translate technical requirements into financial impacts, and communicate model results clearly to all audiences.Recommend process or contract improvements that enhance quality, accuracy, and timeliness of deliverables while maintaining compliance with safety and security requirements.Lead and mentor project staff to ensure alignment with program objectives, promoting knowledge transfer and consistency in cost modeling and project reporting.Demonstrate expert-level Excel and analytical skills, applying relational data concepts and quantitative reasoning to strengthen cost models and financial accuracy.Maintain understanding of IT networks and system-level architectures to accurately relate customer requirements to resource use and associated costs.QualificationsActive Top Secret clearance w/SCI eligibility requiredBachelor's degree in a business, technical, or quantitative field; additional experience may substitute for degreeAt least 4-6 years of project management experience with 1-4 years supporting DoD, IT, or engineering programsExperience managing projects valued between $2M-$5M annually and leading teams of up to 15 personnelStrong skills in Microsoft Excel (SUMIFS, COUNTIFS, INDEX, MATCH, pivot tables) and data modeling for budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysisWorking knowledge of DoD and Navy financial processes, including funding, commitments, obligations, expenditures, and fiscal-year cyclesProven ability to develop and maintain cost models, analyze financial data, and communicate results clearly to technical and non-technical audiencesDemonstrated success in leading and mentoring staff and coordinating across technical, financial, and administrative teamsUnderstanding of IT systems and network architectures and how they relate to cost and resource planningStrong foundation in project management methodologies and tools (e.g., PMI framework); PMP certification or equivalent training a plus.Excellent written and verbal communication skillsWork Expectations:This is a part-time position performed primarily on-site at Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake, or as directed by the Government.Candidates must reside within approximately two hours driving distance of China Lake, CA to support recurring on-site program requirements.Expected work schedule ranges from 20 to 32 hours per week based on program needs. This position is classified as non-exempt and is eligible for overtime in accordance with applicable federal and California wage and hour laws.Travel is estimated at approximately 20% to 30% of scheduled work hours and may vary based on mission requirements.Routine commuting to China Lake, CA is the responsibility of the employee. Authorized program-related travel outside the normal commuting area will be reimbursed in accordance with company policy and applicable contract guidelines.The targeted hourly rate range for this position is $55.00 to $85.00 per hour, equivalent to approximately $57,200 to $141,440 annually based on a projected schedule of 20 to 32 hours per week. Compensation is paid hourly and prorated consistent with the approved part-time schedule.NOTE: In accordance with pay transparency requirements, the posting system may display a full-time annualized salary range. This position is part-time and compensated hourly; total annual earnings are dependent upon the approved part-time schedule of 20 to 32 hours per week.Outside Employment and Conflicts of Interest* Employees must avoid actual or apparent conflicts of interest consistent with company policy and applicable federal contracting regulations.* Outside employment must not interfere with performance or create a conflict with Government program responsibilities. Any outside activity that could present a real or perceived conflict of interest must be disclosed and approved in advance in accordance with company policy.* Employees must comply with all applicable security, procurement integrity, and organizational conflict of interest requirements.Pay Transparency StatementAMERICAN SYSTEMS is committed to pay transparency for our applicants and employee-owners. The salary range for this position is USD $107,800.00/Yr. - USD $180,100.00/Yr. Actual compensation will be determined based on several factors permitted by law. AMERICAN SYSTEMS provides for the welfare of its employees and their dependents through a comprehensive benefits program by offering healthcare benefits, paid leave, retirement plans, insurance programs, and education and training assistance.EEO StatementEEO Race/Sex/Disability Status/Veteran StatusOptions