CVS Formulation Branch Head

North Logan, UT
Full Time
Civil and Commercial Space
Mid Level

Job ID: 3678

NASA defines the major NASA life cycle phases as Formulation and Implementation. During the Formulation phase, Space Dynamics Laboratory (SDL) efforts are typically focused on proposal development.  The Formulation phase can also include concept studies, concept and technology development, and preliminary design and technology completion.  Advancing to the Implementation phase is determined after a successful Formulation phase at a Key Decision Point event.  

SDL’s Civil and Commercial Space (CVS) Division is seeking a Formulation Branch Head. This leader will report to the CVS Division Director or Deputy Director.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Capture management process of CVS NASA and commercial proposal efforts
    • Coordinate with Proposal Manager for overall strategy and proposal management, writing, proposal schedule, resource needs, SWOT analysis, color team reviews, etc.
    • Develop/maintain ability to lead proposal teams ranging from proposals where SDL is mission manager/prime to proposals where we are supporting a customer
    • Manage the assigned bid and proposal budget
    • Build or maintain strong familiarity with civil and commercial space customers (i.e., NASA, NOAA, commercial space industry) proposal requirements
    • Ensure customer satisfaction on proposals creating opportunities for future business
  • Manage the execution of formulation programs (e.g., typically through Phase A or studies without hardware deliverables)
    • Ensure PMs provide day-to-day staff tasking and leadership related to formulation assignments
    • Ensure customer satisfaction on programs executed in Formulation Branch to create opportunities for future business
  • Lead, develop, encourage, and support the strategic efforts of the CVS Division
    • Develop a long-term branch strategic roadmap and/or provide strategic planning input to CVS Division leadership
    • Oversee IR&D activities related to formulation technologies
    • Provide capital equipment inputs
    • Develop and maintain Principal Investigator (PI) and other key, strategic customer relationships
    • Attend technical conferences
    • Support the creation, approval, and publication of technical papers
  • Coordinate and collaborate with SDL and CVS leadership
    • Proposal resources across branches and divisions
    • Support leadership initiatives and associated change management
    • Lead proposal support staff assigned to support CVS proposals and Formulation efforts
    • Leadership resolution of branch resources, equipment, and facility needs to support proposal efforts
  • Communicate effectively and provide solutions
  • Conduct division-level reporting and escalation as required, including weekly status reporting, monthly program assurance reviews
  • Insight into the civil space industry’s progression in technical innovation
  • May manage a limited number of Formulation program(s) as needed and based on workload capacity

Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor’s degree with at least 10 years of experience or an advanced degree with at least 8 years of experience
  • Relevant experience with a highly technical organization performing the following tasks:
    • Program management and/or systems engineering
    • Business development and proposal preparation
    • Contract monitoring/management
    • Document processing and control
    • Cost, risk, and schedule management
    • Procurement
  • Must be a U.S. citizen and able to travel
  • Must possess the ability to lead a team while making direct contributions to team success
  • Proactive and self-motivated
  • Skilled in verbal and written communications; able to prepare and present to both technical and administrative groups in an oral presentation format
  • Understanding of quality processes and procedures
  • Science contacts in various NASA science areas
  • Experience with large-scale NASA proposals

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Government contract management
  • Experience and expertise in one or more of the following technology areas: sensor (EO, UV, vis) design, development, and test, thermal systems, small satellite systems and technologies

*Salary Range:
  • $140,000 to $235,000
    • Base salary commensurate on highest level of education and years of directly related experience

Why Join SDL?
* SDL offers competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package. Visit our  Benefits Page to learn more about what we offer.

At SDL, we uphold a culture of respect, collaboration, empowerment, and accountability. We listen with open minds, seek to understand diverse perspectives, and engage in thoughtful dialogue. We work together by sharing knowledge, involving others, and offering support. We trust and empower our team members to take ownership, act with integrity, and be accountable. Above all, we deliver on our commitments to each other and to our mission partners.

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

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