Task Order Project Lead (TOPL) / Program Manager

Job Summary As a Task Order Project Lead / Program Manager supporting the VA's DEAN (Digital Experience and Artificially iNtelligent) Operations and Initiative Transformation effort (TOPR-0034), you will serve as the primary program management authority responsible for planning, executing, and closing complex, high-visibility initiatives within the Veterans Health Administration (VHA). Working at the intersection of federal healthcare operations and large-scale organizational transformation, you will directly assist VA leadership in achieving targeted program goals that improve the health outcomes and experience of Veterans across an integrated Health Care System. The ideal candidate is a seasoned, senior-level program manager who thrives in ambiguous, fast-paced federal environments, brings a collaborative and strategic mindset to senior leadership engagement, and can translate complex organizational objectives into executable, measurable program plans. Primary Responsibilities Serve as the Task Order Project Lead (TOPL), providing day-to-day oversight and strategic direction for all program activities under TOPR-0034, ensuring deliverables are completed on scope, on schedule, and within budget. Plan, initiate, manage, execute, and close out programs in support of VHA's integrated health care system, applying structured program management methodologies aligned with PMI standards and federal contracting requirements. Engage directly and regularly with VA and VHA senior leadership to provide program status updates, present risks and mitigation strategies, and facilitate data-driven decision-making to advance DEAN mission objectives. Develop and maintain comprehensive program management artifacts including project charters, integrated master schedules (IMS), risk registers, stakeholder engagement plans, and program status reports in accordance with VA documentation standards. Lead cross-functional teams and coordinate with internal workstreams, VA program offices, and partner contractors to align efforts, resolve dependencies, and drive initiative transformation goals across organizational boundaries. Monitor program performance metrics, conduct lessons-learned reviews, and continuously improve program execution processes to support VHA's operational standards and the broader DEAN mission for digital and operational transformation. Minimum Qualifications Minimum of 10 years of experience (with a Master's Degree) in planning, initiating, managing, executing, and closing programs within an integrated health care system or large-scale federal environment — OR — 4 years of demonstrated experience (with a BA/BS Degree) successfully managing a large-scale program, including at least 4 years supporting a large corporation, government agency, or health care organization. Master's Degree (preferred/primary path) in a relevant field such as Healthcare Administration, Business Administration, Public Administration, or related discipline; OR a BA/BS Degree with commensurate experience as outlined above. Minimum of 6 years (Master's path) or 4 years (BA/BS path) of direct experience supporting a large corporation or government agency, with preference given to candidates with demonstrated experience supporting federal health care organizations such as VHA, DoD, or equivalent. Ability to obtain and maintain a VA Position of Public Trust clearance (Tier 2 / MBI) and comply with all VA information security, privacy, and system access requirements including VA PIV credentialing and relevant onboarding standards. Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without current or future sponsorship; this position is subject to federal contractor employment eligibility verification (E-Verify). Active Project Management Professional (PMP) certification or comparable quality-equivalent certification (e.g., PgMP, PMI-ACP, DAWIA PM Level III) is required at time of hire. Desired Qualifications 1. Familiarity with the standard operations, organizational structure, and mission of the Veterans Health Administration (VHA), including knowledge of the DEAN (Digital Experience and Artificially iNtelligent) office's mission and functions. 2. Demonstrated track record of successful, sustained engagement with C-suite or Senior Executive Service (SES)-level leadership within a federal agency or large health care organization. 3. Experience managing initiative transformation or organizational change management (OCM) programs within a federal health care or integrated delivery system context. 4. Familiarity with VA program management frameworks, including VA Directive 6102, VA acquisition regulations (VAAR), and federal contracting oversight norms under FAR/DFARS. 5. Proficiency with program management and collaboration tools commonly used in federal environments, such as MS Project, Jira, Confluence, SharePoint, or equivalent enterprise platforms. About Aptive About Aptive. Aptive partners with federal agencies to achieve their missions through improved performance, streamlined operations and enhanced service delivery. Based in Alexandria, Virginia, we support more than a dozen agencies including Veterans Affairs, Transportation, Defense, Homeland Security and the National Science Foundation. We specialize in applying technology, creativity and human-centered services to optimize mission delivery and improve experiences for millions of people who count on government services every day. Founded: 2012. Employees: 300+ nationwide. EEO Statement Aptive is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, parental status, veteran status, age, disability, or any other protected class. Veterans, members of the Reserve and National Guard, and transitioning active-duty service members are highly encouraged to apply. About Aptive: Aptive partners with federal agencies to achieve their missions through improved performance, streamlined operations and enhanced service delivery. Based in Alexandria, Virginia, we support more than a dozen agencies including Veterans Affairs, Transportation, Defense, Homeland Security and the National Science Foundation. We specialize in applying technology, creativity and human-centered services to optimize mission delivery and improve experiences for millions of people who count on government services every day. Founded: 2012. Employees: 300+ nationwide.