Technical Program Manager (Software Onboarding & ATO) | TS/SCI | AWS Classified Regions

Bestgate Engineering is hiring a TS/SCI-cleared Technical Program Manager to drive software onboarding, licensing, and ATO execution for AWS engineering teams operating in classified cloud regions. This is a delivery-focused TPM role at the intersection of engineering productivity, security compliance, and classified environment constraints.

Why this role matters:
In classified environments, you can’t just “buy a tool and install it.” Every engineering tool and service must be vetted for availability, licensing, security risk, and accreditation impact—then deployed in a way that works without internet dependencies (no call-home licensing, offline activation, air-gapped constraints). This TPM owns that process end-to-end so engineering teams can move fast without breaking compliance.

What you’ll do:

• Lead end-to-end software onboarding into the classified environment: intake, assessment, approvals, and deployment readiness
• Drive Authority to Operate (ATO) efforts with the sponsor, including documentation prep and shepherding packages through the AO/ISSM process
• Assess whether requested tools/services are available in classified AWS regions; identify gaps, alternatives, and manage exception requests/approvals
• Engage directly with vendors to secure on-prem / air-gapped licensing for tools such as SolidWorks, Altium, Cameo, ANSYS HPC

What we’re looking for:

• Active TS/SCI clearance
• 5+ years as a Technical Program Manager / Program Manager in software or infrastructure delivery
• Demonstrated experience navigating security reviews, accreditation coordination, and compliance documentation
• Strong stakeholder management across engineering, security, and platform/infra teams
• Comfort working with vendors on licensing and terms, including handling constraints like offline/air-gapped environments

Great to have:

• Hands-on familiarity with ATO/RMF processes and the practical mechanics of moving packages through AO/ISSM stakeholders
• Experience standing up intake pipelines (Jira/Confluence, service catalog, workflow automation) and managing tool inventories
• Background supporting DevSecOps/build operations in restricted environments

Location:

• Preferred: Arlington, VA or Herndon, VA
• Also acceptable: Jessup, MD (with occasional travel)

What you get:

• High-visibility ownership of a mission-critical workflow that unlocks engineering productivity in classified regions
• Real authority to drive decisions, remove blockers, and modernize the onboarding/ATO pipeline
• A technically literate team that values execution, clarity, and delivery under constraint

Salary Range: 200,000 - $245,000

• The provided salary range is an approximation based on current market data and may vary. The final offer will be determined after carefully considering the candidate’s skills, experience, and qualifications as they relate to the position. This range is intended as a reference point and is subject to change.

Why Bestgate?

Engineering isn’t just any tech company we’re on the front lines, delivering cutting edge solutions that support mission critical work for government customers and the military. Whether it’s cloud native technologies, software modernization, embedded engineering, high performance computing, or data science, we’re making an impact where it matters most.

At Bestgate, we believe in putting people first our employees and our customers. That’s why our core values employee focus, transparency, reliability, and excellence drive everything we do!

Benefits Overview

• PTO: Starting at 26 days with options to increase or decrease for personal needs.
• 401k: 7% gift, fully vested from day one!
• Free Medical, Dental, Vision: Coverage for employees and dependents.
• $5,000 in Training: For certifications, conferences, and continued learning.
• End-of-Year Bonuses: Recognizing your hard work.

Plus, flexibility, internal mobility programs, career pathing, engaged leadership, and a robust external referral program.

Equal Opportunity Employer
Bestgate is proud to celebrate diversity and foster an inclusive environment. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.

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