Alternate Program Manager

Job Title

Alternate Program Manager

Why IDS?

IDS believes in resolving conflict and building innovative approaches to do so. Combining operational expertise with an intimate understanding of today’s greatest challenges, we bring our customers the solutions required for success in a complex and multidimensional world. IDS tailors solutions for a diverse range of government, military, nonprofit, and public-sector clients.

This position is contingent upon contract award

Location

Gov site (NCR)

Please note, candidates must be flexible. Shift times are general hours; some projects may require earlier or later reporting based on customer requirements.

Job Description

IDS is seeking a skilled Alternate Program Manager to support the leadership, oversight, and execution of complex government and defense programs. This role serves as the primary backup to the Program Manager and is responsible for ensuring seamless continuity of operations, supervising personnel, managing program performance, and supporting coordination with senior defense stakeholders. The Alternate Program Manager will apply proven leadership methodologies, strong communication skills, and hands-on program oversight to maintain high-quality performance across all operational and administrative tasks.

Key Duties

• Assist in leading, planning, and managing complex project operations, ensuring effective manpower utilization, compliance with standards, training implementation, and efficient performance outcomes.

• Support problem resolution, employee relations (including subcontractors), and oversight of cost, budget, and milestone management.

• Manage and supervise employees across varying labor categories and skill levels to ensure efficient program execution.

• Coordinate with Service Headquarters and/or DoD leadership to support mission objectives and maintain effective communication channels.

• Assist in developing, updating, and maintaining schedules, resource plans, risk mitigation strategies, and reporting deliverables.

• Ensure all aspects of the program meet quality, security, and contractual requirements.

• Serve as acting Program Manager when required, ensuring uninterrupted program leadership and decision-making.

• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives to enhance program performance and organizational effectiveness.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, scientific, technical, management, or a related discipline.

• 6–8 years of experience:

• Planning, directing, and managing complex projects or operations of similar size and complexity, including manpower utilization, standards, training, problem resolution, employee relations, cost, budget, and milestone management.

• Supervising employees across diverse labor categories and skill levels.

• Working with Service Headquarters and/or DoD leadership.

• TOP SECRET/SCI clearance required.

Questions?

Please reach out to for additional questions or information.