Subject Matter Expert (SME) Program Manager

About the Role

Kaizen Approach is currently seeking a Subject Matter Expert (SME) Program Manager to lead a high‑visibility federal program supporting U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). In this role, you will oversee the planning, execution, and delivery of enterprise‑level initiatives focused on business process improvement, Agile transformation, and data‑driven modernization across the Verification Division (VER) and Field Operations Directorate (FOD). You will be responsible for driving program strategy, governance, and performance while ensuring alignment with mission objectives and stakeholder priorities. This position involves managing cross‑functional teams, coordinating across multiple USCIS offices and external agencies, and ensuring successful implementation of process, technology, and operational improvements. You will serve as the primary point of contact for Government leadership, providing executive‑level communication, risk management, and performance reporting while guiding scalable, high‑impact solutions in a complex federal environment. Proficiency in Agile methodologies, program governance frameworks, and federal program delivery is highly advantageous.

Requirements

• Ability to lead and manage large, complex federal programs, including planning, execution, governance, and performance management across multiple workstreams.
• Ability to serve as the primary interface with Government stakeholders and provide clear, actionable communication on program status, risks, and outcomes.
• Ability to implement and oversee Agile methodologies, including backlog development, sprint planning, and iterative delivery.
• Ability to drive business process improvement efforts, including process analysis, workflow optimization, and operational transformation initiatives.
• Ability to coordinate cross‑functional teams across business, technical, and operational domains to ensure alignment and collaboration.
• Ability to support data‑driven decision‑making through the use of performance metrics, dashboards, and analytical insights.
• Ability to manage risk, schedule, cost, and quality to ensure delivery of high‑quality, compliant, and timely outputs.
• Ten (10) years of program and/or project management experience, with at least five (5) years supporting large‑scale federal programs of similar scope, type, and complexity.
• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, Information Technology, or a related field; a Master’s degree is preferred.
• PMP, PgMP, or equivalent certification; Agile or SAFe certification is preferred and must be able to obtain and maintain a DHS suitability clearance (Public Trust or higher as required).

Salary Range

A variety of factors can impact the final salary offered, including, but not limited to, geographic location, Federal Government contract labor categories and wage rates, relevant work experience, specialized skills and competencies, education, and certifications.

About Kaizen Approach

At Kaizen Approach, we truly care about our team, offering flexibility for a balanced life, competitive compensation, and a robust benefits package that supports you and your family. We prioritize well‑being with premium healthcare, financial and family support, retirement planning, and ongoing learning. Benefits include:

• 4 weeks of PTO
• 11 holidays
• Gifted 401(k) with profit sharing
• Paid training

Kaizen Approach is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender.