Project Manager

Job Summary We are seeking a skilled Project Manager to support AI Strategy, Governance, and Operations initiatives within the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) federal healthcare environment. In this role, you will provide end-to-end project management support for complex, technology-driven programs that advance the VA's mission to deliver world-class care and services to Veterans. You will work at the intersection of artificial intelligence strategy and federal healthcare operations, helping to coordinate cross-functional teams, manage deliverables, and ensure projects are executed on time, within scope, and aligned with federal standards. The ideal candidate is a disciplined, detail-oriented project management professional who thrives in fast-paced, technically complex environments and can effectively bridge communication between technical teams, government stakeholders, and executive leadership. You bring a proactive working style, a strong command of PM methodologies, and the ability to navigate the unique compliance and governance requirements of federal contracting. Primary Responsibilities Lead end-to-end project management for AI strategy, governance, and operations workstreams, including project planning, scheduling, risk management, and stakeholder coordination across VA program offices. Develop, maintain, and report on integrated project plans, work breakdown structures (WBS), milestones, and status dashboards to ensure transparency and accountability across all project phases. Facilitate regular project meetings, working sessions, and governance reviews; capture action items, decisions, and risks; and ensure timely follow-through by responsible parties. Identify, track, and escalate project risks, issues, and dependencies, and develop mitigation strategies in alignment with VA program priorities and federal project management standards. Coordinate cross-functional collaboration between technical teams, VA government leads, and contract stakeholders to support the delivery of AI governance frameworks, policies, and operational artifacts. Prepare and deliver high-quality written communications, briefings, and project documentation for senior VA leadership, ensuring all deliverables meet contractual requirements and federal reporting standards. Minimum Qualifications Minimum of 3+ years of experience providing project management support in a technical or IT-focused environment, with demonstrated ability to manage multiple concurrent workstreams. No minimum education requirement specified; equivalent combination of relevant education, training, and professional experience will be considered. Prior experience supporting federal agency clients, preferably within the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) or another federal health or civilian agency, is strongly desired. Ability to obtain and maintain VA network access and meet federal background investigation requirements; current federal clearance or prior VA PIV eligibility a plus. Must be authorized to work in the United States; this position does not offer visa sponsorship. Active Project Management Professional (PMP) certification required; certification must be current and in good standing with PMI at time of hire. Desired Qualifications - Experience supporting AI, data, or emerging technology programs within a federal health agency such as the VA, HHS, or DoD. - Familiarity with VA or federal IT governance frameworks, including VA Handbook 6500, FedRAMP, or NIST risk management standards. - Working knowledge of Agile and hybrid project management methodologies (e.g., SAFe, Scrum) as applied in federal program environments. - Experience developing and managing program documentation such as Project Management Plans (PMPs), Risk Registers, and CONOPS in support of federal clients. - Proficiency with project management and collaboration tools such as MS Project, Jira, Confluence, or equivalent platforms used in federal contracting environments. About Aptive About Aptive. Aptive partners with federal agencies to achieve their missions through improved performance, streamlined operations and enhanced service delivery. Based in Alexandria, Virginia, we support more than a dozen agencies including Veterans Affairs, Transportation, Defense, Homeland Security and the National Science Foundation. We specialize in applying technology, creativity and human-centered services to optimize mission delivery and improve experiences for millions of people who count on government services every day. Founded: 2012. Employees: 300+ nationwide. EEO Statement Aptive is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, parental status, veteran status, age, disability, or any other protected class. Veterans, members of the Reserve and National Guard, and transitioning active-duty service members are highly encouraged to apply. About Aptive: Aptive partners with federal agencies to achieve their missions through improved performance, streamlined operations and enhanced service delivery. Based in Alexandria, Virginia, we support more than a dozen agencies including Veterans Affairs, Transportation, Defense, Homeland Security and the National Science Foundation. We specialize in applying technology, creativity and human-centered services to optimize mission delivery and improve experiences for millions of people who count on government services every day. Founded: 2012. Employees: 300+ nationwide.