Operations/Task Manager with Security Clearance

Company Overview At ValidaTek, we modernize and optimize IT services to solve some of the most critical challenges facing federal civilian and defense agencies. From customers to partners to top-talent employees, ValidaTek puts people first, empowering them to exceed expectations and transform government organizations. Our employees are building purpose-driven careers, not just filling jobs. We bring together people with many different perspectives, experiences, and talents to drive innovation and achieve more together than we can individually. Our commitment to quality and performance optimization is the reason why our IT Service Projects and New Development Projects have been appraised at CMMI Maturity Level 5, positioning us as one of a handful of elite companies to receive the highest form of third-party validation. Summary We are seeking a skilled Task/Operations Manager will lead and oversee a network engineering program supporting the Defense Health Agency (DHA), ensuring effective project execution, resource management, and adherence to mission-critical objectives. This role requires a strong blend of technical networking expertise and project management skills to manage the delivery of secure, reliable, and scalable network solutions in a healthcare-focused DoD environment. The Task Manager will be responsible for coordinating project timelines, managing team performance CONUS and OCONUS, and maintaining compliance with federal health IT security standards. Responsibilities Lead and manage the daily operations of the network engineering team, overseeing project planning, resource allocation, and task execution. Serve as the primary point of contact between stakeholders and the technical team, ensuring clear communication of project status, risks, and timelines. Develop and maintain project schedules, track deliverables, and ensure timely completion of all milestones in accordance with the project plan. Collaborate with network engineers to design, implement, and optimize LAN, WAN, VPN, and cloud-based systems in a DHA healthcare environment. Ensure all networking projects comply with DoD security and Health IT regulations, including NIST, RMF, and DISA STIGs. Identify and mitigate risks, troubleshoot project issues, and implement solutions to optimize network performance. Monitor budget and resource utilization, making adjustments as necessary to meet project goals. Provide leadership and mentoring to technical staff, ensuring a high-performance team environment. Prepare regular reports for senior leadership and stakeholders, detailing project status, accomplishments, and any required corrective actions. Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or related field (Master's degree preferred). 7+ years of experience in network engineering, with at least 3 years in a DoD or DHA environment. 3+ years of experience in project or task management, overseeing IT projects or engineering teams. Active DoD Secret Clearance at minimum - required. PMP certification - required. CCNP and CISSP - preferred. Demonstrated knowledge of networking protocols and systems (e.g., LAN, WAN, VPN, cloud architectures) with hands-on experience in Cisco and Juniper products. Familiarity with DoD cybersecurity frameworks, including NIST, RMF, and DISA STIGs. Strong project management skills, with a track record of delivering projects on time and within budget. Exceptional communication, organizational, and leadership skills. Active Secret (or higher) security clearance is required. Experience with federal health IT systems and DHA-specific programs - preferred. Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple priorities. This position may require occasional travel and offers the opportunity to contribute to a critical health-focused DoD initiative. EEO Statement ValidaTek is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to disability, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local laws. Applicants who are selected for employment will be required to verify authorization to work in the United States. Offers of employment will be contingent upon passing a post-offer background check.