Acquisition Scheduling Subject Matter Expert

Applied Research Solutions is looking for an Acquisition Scheduling Subject Matter Expert to support the Training PEO Support Directorate at WPAFB, AFB in the T-7 Advanced Pilot Training program. The Acquisition Scheduling SME will provide expert-level guidance and support in the development, analysis, and management of acquisition schedules for high-visibility, high-tempo Department of Defense (DoD) and Air Force (USAF) programs. The ideal candidate will possess advanced proficiency in scheduling tools such as Microsoft Project and Open Plan Professional (OPP) and have deep knowledge of SAF/AQ and AFLCMC scheduling processes. This position requires significant experience in providing strategic advice to Government Program Managers (PM) and Program Executive Officers (PEO) in the areas of schedule development, monitoring, and risk mitigation.

Why Work with us?

Applied Research Solutions (ARS) is respected as a world-class provider of technically integrated solutions as we deliver premier talent and technology across our focused markets for unparalleled, continuous mission support. Awarded a Best Places to Work nominee since 2020, ARS recognizes that without our career- driven, loyal professionals, we would not be able to deliver state-of-the-art results for our mission partners. We firmly believe that prioritizing our employees is of the upmost importance. We provide a culture where our employees are challenged to meet their career goals and aspirations, while still obtaining a work/life balance. ARS employees are motivated through our industry competitive benefits package, our awards and recognition program, and personalized attention from ARS Senior Managers.  

Responsibilities include:

• Serve as the primary subject matter expert in acquisition scheduling processes, providing technical guidance to Government PMs and PEOs to ensure effective program execution and achievement of acquisition milestones.
• Collaborate with Government teams to define program tasks, identify issues, and recommend solutions while helping to derive schedule tasks and requirements.
• Advise on the development of weapon system program execution strategies and assist the Government in defining acquisition strategies, timelines, and capability outcomes documented in acquisition strategies and program baselines.
• Develop, analyze, and maintain Integrated Master Plans (IMP) and Integrated Master Schedules (IMS) for high-visibility programs, ensuring adherence to DoD and USAF scheduling regulations and requirements.
• Apply best practices in scheduling and project control to support metrics, data collection tools, and schedule input for monitoring program health, assessing risks, and identifying critical path milestones.
• Assist the Government in applying Earned Value Management (EVM) principles to evaluate program health and analyze contractor performance relative to schedule baselines.
• Provide technical advice and recommendations to PMO and senior staff on program scheduling health, risk analysis, and improvement strategies to mitigate potential schedule delays.
• Organize and support program actions, including meeting attendance, milestone planning, risk management strategy development, meeting minutes, briefing preparation, and decision documentation.
• Apply working knowledge of scheduling software tools, including Microsoft Project, Open Plan Professional (OPP), and/or Deltek Acumen Fuse, to develop and maintain detailed program schedules.
• Provide schedule training to PMO personnel and designees upon Government request, ensuring effective understanding of schedule management best practices.
• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications/ Technical Experience Requirements:

• Must have an active Secret Clearance
• Must be US Citizen 
• Master’s or Doctorate Degree in a related field and at least 20 years of experience in the respective technical / professional discipline being performed, 12 years of which must be in the DoD
• or Bachelor’s Degree in a related field and 25 years of experience in the respective technical/professional discipline being performed, 15 years of which must be in the DoD
• or 30 years of directly related experience with proper certifications, 20 years of which must be in the DoD.
• Extensive experience working with SAF/AQ and AFLCMC scheduling processes, including the development of IMP/IMS and the application of DoD acquisition regulations.
• Proven ability to advise senior Government leadership (PMO, PEO) on scheduling challenges, providing actionable recommendations for improving program execution and mitigating risks.
• Strong understanding of Earned Value Management (EVM) principles and experience using EVM to assess program health, quality, and schedule performance.

All positions at Applied Research Solutions are subject to background investigations. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background investigation including criminal history and identity check.

This contractor and subcontractor shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR 60-741.5(a). This regulation prohibits discrimination against qualified individuals on the basis of disability, and requires affirmative action by covered prime contractors and subcontractors to employ and advance in employment qualified individuals with disabilities.

This contractor and subcontractor shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR 60-300.5(a). This regulation prohibits discrimination against qualified protected veterans, and requires affirmative action by covered contractors and subcontractors to employ and advance in employment qualified protected veterans.