Technical Operations / Mission Integration Lead

Nightwing provides technically advanced full-spectrum cyber, data operations, systems integration and intelligence mission support services to meet our customers’ most demanding challenges. Our capabilities include cyber space operations, cyber defense and resiliency, vulnerability research, ubiquitous technical surveillance, data intelligence, lifecycle mission enablement, and software modernization. Nightwing brings disruptive technologies, agility, and competitive offerings to customers in the intelligence community, defense, civil, and commercial markets.

Guardian Mission Operations Lead

Position Title: Technical Operations / Mission Integration Lead

• Location: Herndon, VA (On-site with limited telework flexibility and up to 25% Travel Required OCONUS/CONUS)

Clearance: Active TS/SCI with CI Polygraph (Required)

Position Overview (BLUF)

Nightwing is seeking a Technical Operations & Mission Integration Lead to operationalize the Guardian platform in support of sensitive national security missions.

This role is purpose-built for a senior Technical Operations Officer–type leader who can bridge mission execution, technical capability, and program delivery. You will ensure Guardian systems are not only deployed, but effectively integrated, operationally relevant, and sustainable in real-world environments.

You will operate at the intersection of:

• Field operations
• Engineering, software, and hardware integration
• Mission-focused program execution

This position will include a variety of activities, including:

• Mission Integration & Operational Enablement
• Translate operational requirements into deployable Guardian configurations and CONOPS
• Ensure system alignment with denied, low-visibility, and contested environments
• Serve as the bridge between operators, engineers, and program leadership
• Assisting in maintaining program documentation, schedules, and reporting artifacts
• Leveraging tools such as Excel, PowerPoint, specialized RF performance models, and project tracking systems (e.g., Jira, MS Project)
• Supporting continuous improvement of program execution processes and workflows

Forward Deployed Operations

• Lead and support global deployments across:
  • Fixed sites, mobile platforms, and expeditionary kits
• Provide in-field leadership during:
  • Initial installs
  • Mission execution
  • Real-time troubleshooting
• Ensure systems remain operational, resilient, and mission-effective

Technical Systems Integration (Expanded Scope)

• Oversee integration and fielding of:
  • TAK ecosystem (ATAK/WinTAK/TAK Server)
  • MANET radios and RF communications systems
  • Intelligence information fusion, AI tools
  • SATCOM / LEO backhaul (e.g., Starlink)
• Apply working knowledge of:
  • RF engineering principles (line-of-sight, UHF/VHF/HF bands)
  • Network architecture and IP-based communications
  • COTS and GOTS hardware and software integration
• Perform and oversee:
  • Ethernet, coaxial, and power cable fabrication and repair
  • Field-expedient system modifications and integration

Software & Hardware Development Support

• Provide operator-driven input to software development efforts, including:
  • Feature prioritization
  • Usability in operational environments
• Support hardware development teams by:
  • Validating prototypes in real-world conditions
  • Providing feedback on durability, power, and integration constraints
• Contribute basic scripting or configuration-level development (as needed) to support system functionality

Program Management & Execution

• Support program execution across:
  • Schedule development and tracking
  • CDRL deliverables and reporting
  • Financial oversight (DOW-level awareness, budget alignment, execution tracking)
• Assist in managing:
  • Subcontractor and vendor performance
  • Deployment timelines and resource allocation
• Ensure compliance with:
  • Operational, financial, and security requirements

Training Development & Mission Transition

• Develop and deliver training programs for:
  • U.S. operators
  • Foreign partners (FMS environments)
• Coordinate training events, materials, and certification approaches
• Ensure smooth transition from deployment to sustained operational use

Stakeholder Engagement

• Interface directly with:
  • U.S. Government customers
  • Foreign military and interagency partners
• Build trust and expand adoption of Guardian capabilities
• Provide executive-level updates and mission feedback

Required Qualifications

• 15–20+ years experience in:
  • Technical operations, intelligence operations, or mission systems integration
• Direct experience in:
  • Denied / hostile / low-visibility environments
  • Global operational deployments
• Working knowledge of:
  • RF communications (LOS, UHF/VHF/HF)
  • IP networking and system integration
• Hands-on experience with:
  • Cable fabrication (Ethernet, coaxial, power)
  • Field system installation and troubleshooting
  • Hardware systems assembly and software configuration
• Experience supporting:
  • Hardware and/or software development teams
• Program execution experience including:
  • Scheduling, CDRLs, and financial tracking

Preferred Qualifications

• Background as:
  • Technical Operations Officer / CI / HUMINT / CNO support
• Experience with:
  • TAK ecosystem
  • Silvus or similar MANET radios
  • ISR / sensor integration
  • COT and other data transmission formats
• Prior military leadership (E7+ or equivalent)
• Experience supporting FMS or coalition operations

Key Attributes

• Mission-first, calm under pressure
• Hands-on technical leader (not purely managerial)
• Able to operate independently in austere environments
• Strong communicator across tactical to executive levels

Positioning

• “You are owning how the capability is used in real operations”
• “You will influence both the tech AND the mission”
• “This is not IT — this is operational capability delivery”

Bottom of Form

Optional Skills:

• Demonstrated experience

Why Nightwing

• Work on real-world, mission-driven programs supporting national security
• Gain hands-on experience across program management, finance, and technology
• Operate in a collaborative, fast-paced environment with high visibility
• Clear growth path from entry-level to program leadership
• High academic achievement (3.5+ GPA preferred)

At Nightwing, we value collaboration and teamwork. You’ll have the opportunity to work alongside talented individuals who are passionate about what they do. Together, we’ll leverage our collective expertise to drive innovation, solve complex problems, and deliver exceptional results for our clients.

Thank you for considering joining us as we embark on this new journey and shape the future of cybersecurity and intelligence together as part of the Nightwing team.

Nightwing is An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status, age or any other federally protected class.