Modernization SME

Galapagos

1d

About The Position

Galapagos Federal Systems, LLC is seeking a highly experienced Modernization Subject Matter Expert (SME) to provide technical leadership and strategic advisory support for Department of Defense (DoD) programs focused on modernization, transformation, and capability enhancement. This role is central to guiding strategic planning, technology integration, system upgrades, and digital transformation efforts to ensure mission success in rapidly evolving operational environments.
The SME will collaborate with senior leaders, program managers, and cross-functional teams to shape modernization strategies, implement emerging technologies, and align capabilities with DoD policies and acquisition frameworks. This position offers the opportunity to directly influence mission readiness, strengthen system resilience, and enable the DoD to meet future operational challenges.

Requirements

• 10+ years of experience in system life cycle management, sustainment, modernization, or related technical roles within DoD or Federal programs
• Expertise in systems engineering, life cycle planning, and technology refresh strategies
• Strong knowledge of DoD acquisition and sustainment processes (e.g., DAS, JCIDS, PPBE)
• Proven success in developing and executing lifecycle management plans, readiness assessments, and performance metrics
• Proficiency in evaluating and integrating emerging technologies to enhance system capabilities
• Experience producing technical documentation, compliance reports, and executive-level briefings
• Demonstrated ability to operate in classified and unclassified environments across joint operations
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills
• Excellent communication, stakeholder engagement, and executive briefing abilities
• Ability to influence and collaborate with senior leaders and multi-disciplinary teams
• Strategic thinker with the ability to balance cost, schedule, risk, and mission effectiveness
• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Systems Engineering, Computer Science, Information Technology, or related technical field
• Security+ CE, CISSP, or equivalent (required for classified/sensitive environments)
• Active TS/SCI Clearance
• Must be a U.S. Citizen. A high-level Department of Defense active security clearance is/may be required for this position.

Nice To Haves

• Master’s degree (preferred)
• DoD Acquisition or Life cycle Management certifications (e.g., DAWIA, CDFM) (preferred)
• ITIL Foundation certification for service management practices (preferred)
• PMP (preferred)

Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end life cycle management activities for DoD and federal systems, from acquisition and sustainment through modernization and disposal
• Develop and oversee strategies, road maps, and implementation plans to ensure system reliability, maintainability, and mission effectiveness
• Conduct readiness assessments, cost-benefit analyses, and performance evaluations to optimize operational outcomes
• Provide technical guidance and advisory expertise to stakeholders, program managers, and government customers
• Support technology refresh and modernization initiatives, integrating emerging capabilities into existing platforms
• Prepare and deliver executive-level reports, briefings, and recommendations to senior leaders and decision-makers
• Ensure compliance with DoD, federal, and corporate standards, policies, and reporting requirements
• Capture and apply lessons learned, best practices, and process improvements to strengthen life cycle management across programs

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• 401(k)
• PTO
• Paid Parental leave
• Tuition reimbursement
• Paid federal holidays

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level