Job ID: 8320
Date Posted: June 3, 2026

Space Dynamics Laboratory (SDL) is seeking a Senior Section Head to lead the Laboratory’s presence in Albuquerque, New Mexico and oversee a portfolio of national security space programs supporting key government partners in our Strategic & Military Space Division.

The successful candidate will serve as SDL’s senior on-site representative, responsible for strengthening trusted partnerships with Government customers, shaping future opportunities, and ensuring successful execution of SDL programs in the region.

This role is well suited for a senior leader with deep experience in the national security space community, such as a former military officer or Government program leader with established relationships across the U.S. Air Force, U.S. Space Force, or related organizations.

This position blends portfolio leadership, program management, and strategic customer engagement. Approximately 25–50% of the role supports site leadership and customer engagement, while 50–75% involves direct program management responsibilities.

The Strategic & Military Space Division delivers advanced satellite and sensor systems that support the Department of Defense and the Intelligence Community. Our division is a key component of national security, providing technological solutions and expert mission support. Become part of a team dedicated to making a tangible contribution to our nation’s defense capabilities.

• Serves as SDL’s primary representative in Albuquerque, building trusted relationships with key Government stakeholders
• Maintains regular engagement with customers to ensure SDL delivers mission-relevant solutions and exceptional support
• Establishes and sustains strong relationships with leadership, contracting, and security organizations

• Manages a portfolio of SDL programs and serves as Program Manager on selected efforts, ensuring strong cost, schedule, and technical performance
• Provides strategic insight to SDL leadership on customer priorities, mission needs, and program performance

• Leads SDL’s Albuquerque team, fostering a strong “One SDL” culture between the field office and headquarters
• Organizes site engagement activities such as quarterly all-hands meetings and team events

• Leads site-related IDIQ contract activities, including oversight of proposals, task orders, contract ceilings, deliverables, and reporting
• Leverages trusted relationships with Government contracting offices to help resolve issues and remove administrative roadblocks when necessary

• Supports business development activities by identifying emerging mission needs and opportunities
• Develops and maintains a strategic customer roadmap for SDL’s Albuquerque presence

• Bachelor’s degree in a related technical field
• 5+ years of experience in leading programs
• Extensive knowledge of the United States Space Force and/or United States Air Force
• Deep familiarity with the national security space community, particularly organizations such as:
  • Air Force Research Laboratory
  • Space Rapid Capabilities Office
  • Space Systems Command
  • Sandia National Laboratories
• Experience leading complex Government programs or mission organizations
• Experience managing programs under DoW IDIQ or task-order contract structures
• Demonstrated ability to build trusted relationships with senior Government leaders
• Strong understanding of DoW acquisition and program execution
• Demonstrated ability to organize and manage a team, develop program schedules, and manage budgets to meet deadlines and customer expectations
• Effective written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to travel when required
• Must be a U.S. citizen with a current TS/SCI clearance

For questions, assistance, or accommodation with the application process or the DoD SkillBridge program, please contact employment@sdl.usu.edu.