As a Junior Action Officer for the Sweet Emotion Program, you will provide comprehensive support to a DARPA Program Director overseeing high-stakes research and development initiatives. This position demands a disciplined, detail-oriented professional capable of managing multifaceted responsibilities across technical, financial, and administrative domains.
Core Responsibilities
- Act as the central point of coordination for all program activities, ensuring alignment across teams and timelines
- Monitor and reconcile multi-year funding allocations spanning hundreds of millions of dollars, tracking obligations and expenditures across diverse appropriations
- Prepare, review, and process acquisition documentation, funding requests, and official correspondence
- Ensure adherence to Department of Defense financial regulations, procurement policies, and audit standards
- Develop and maintain comprehensive program tracking systems, dashboards, and status reports for senior leadership review
- Collaborate with contracting officers, financial analysts, technical leads, and external partners to advance program objectives
- Support high-level program reviews, briefings, and engagements with Congressional staff and senior DoD officials
- Identify emerging risks and operational challenges, recommending practical solutions to maintain program momentum
- Draft decision memos, briefing materials, and strategic communications for executive use
- Manage sensitive and classified information in compliance with federal security protocols
- Oversee the Program Director’s calendar, prioritize daily tasks, and resolve scheduling conflicts in a demanding operational environment
- Coordinate secure meeting spaces, manage travel logistics, and prepare pre-read packages for key meetings
- Track action items, deliverables, and deadlines across multiple stakeholders to ensure accountability
- Facilitate communication between the Program Director and internal or external entities, including senior defense leadership
- Maintain accurate, secure records in accordance with federal documentation and retention requirements
- Anticipate executive needs and proactively address administrative or logistical issues
Qualifications
Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Engineering, Public Administration, or a related field. Two to five years of relevant experience supporting DoD programs, acquisition processes, executive offices, or financial management functions is required. Familiarity with Department of Defense administrative procedures, task tracking systems, and formal correspondence protocols is essential.
Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving abilities are critical, as is the capacity to work independently while managing multiple priorities under tight deadlines. Exceptional writing and verbal communication skills are required, including experience preparing and delivering executive-level briefings. A current Top Secret clearance with eligibility for Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) is mandatory.
Preferred candidates will have exposure to advanced technology areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, autonomous systems, space systems, or emerging technologies. Demonstrated proficiency in executive scheduling, task coordination, and front-office operations will be highly valued.
Work Environment
This is an onsite position within a mission-driven, fast-paced setting that requires consistent engagement with senior stakeholders and time-sensitive deliverables. The role supports national security objectives and operates under strict compliance and security standards.
Benefits
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage
- Paid time off and holiday leave
- Retirement plan with 401(k) matching
- Educational reimbursement program
- Parental leave benefits
- Employee stock purchase option
- Flexible tax-saving accounts
- Disability and life insurance
- Pet insurance
