1

Acquisition Program Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Plans shall be developed in accordance with format requirements in the Acquisition Support Office Program Manager's Handbook. Key Responsibilities: • Provide recommendations on life cycle support ...

Showing results 21-40

Acquisition Program Manager information

See California salary details

$42.9K

$85.7K

$148K

How much do acquisition program manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for acquisition program manager in California is $85,665.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,300.00 and $110,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an acquisition program manager?

To thrive as an Acquisition Program Manager, you need strong project management skills, knowledge of procurement regulations, and typically a degree in business, engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with acquisition management systems, federal contracting tools, and certifications like DAWIA or PMP are highly valued. Excellent communication, negotiation, and leadership abilities help build consensus among stakeholders and manage complex projects effectively. These skills ensure successful program delivery, regulatory compliance, and efficient use of resources in acquisition environments.

What is an acquisition program manager?

Acquisition Program Managers are professionals responsible for overseeing and managing the procurement and lifecycle of products, services, or systems within an organization, often in government or defense sectors. They coordinate project timelines, budgets, and requirements to ensure successful delivery and compliance with regulations. Their role involves working with cross-functional teams, managing contracts, and mitigating risks throughout the acquisition process.

What are some common challenges acquisition program managers face when coordinating cross-functional teams?

Acquisition Program Managers often work with a diverse range of stakeholders, including engineers, finance specialists, and contract officers, which can present challenges in aligning priorities and communication styles. Balancing the needs of various departments while ensuring program timelines and budgets are met requires strong negotiation and conflict-resolution skills. Additionally, adapting to shifting requirements and regulatory changes is a frequent challenge, making flexibility and proactive problem-solving important qualities for success in the role.

What is the difference between Acquisition Program Manager vs Contract Specialist?

AspectAcquisition Program ManagerContract Specialist
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree, PMP or similar certifications often preferredBachelor's degree, often with contracting certifications like FAC-C or DAWIA
Work EnvironmentOversees large acquisition projects, collaborates with multiple teamsFocuses on contract development, negotiation, and compliance
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, defense, aerospaceGovernment agencies, defense, federal contracting
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding project management roles in acquisitionsUnderstanding contract management roles in acquisitions

The Acquisition Program Manager and Contract Specialist roles both operate within government and defense sectors, but the Program Manager oversees entire acquisition projects, while the Contract Specialist focuses on contract details and compliance. Both require related certifications and work environments, making them common points of comparison for professionals in procurement and acquisition fields.

What are popular job titles related to Acquisition Program Manager jobs in California?

For Acquisition Program Manager jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in California are hiring for Acquisition Program Manager jobs?

Cities in California with the most Acquisition Program Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Acquisition Program Manager job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $85,665 per year, or $41.2 per hour.

Senior Acquisition Program Management Professional

DCS CORPORATION

Edwards, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

DCS has an exciting opportunity for an experienced Senior Acquisition Program Management Professional supporting an Air Force acquisition mission on the EB contract at Eglin AFB, FL. The candidate will apply comprehensive knowledge in development of NR-KPP, ISP, IASP, and PPP documentation; provide training on DoDAF policy, processes, procedures, and tools; and support accelerated delivery of required products to meet short-notice program direction.
Essential Job Functions:
Develop NR-KPP, ISP, IASP, PPP, and related DoDAF 2.2 (or later) architecture views.
Provide training on DoDAF policy, processes, procedures, and tools.
Assist with CBA, ICD, CDD, and CPD development, including associated risk assessments, briefings, and coordination/staffing documentation.
Maintain requirements traceability and develop required reports and analyses to support updates to CDDs/CPDs.
Employ CBA data visualization and editing tools to create JCIDS products and maintain a persistent data model using platforms like DOORS, SysML, or equivalent suites.
Provide extensive reach-back support across functional disciplines and enable near-real-time response to MAJCOM changes and inputs.
Provide FMS case management support.
Apply acquisition program support knowledge to assist program managers in meeting guidance in FAR, DoD 5000.2, and other applicable documents and regulations.
Develop and manage program plans, risk management processes, and program courses of action.
Support development of draft RFPs including systems specifications, SRDs, SOOs, SOWs, CDRLs, and other RFP products.
Support source selection simulations and cost benefit assessments; support mock proposals, RFP risk assessments, RFI responses, and training modules.
Maintain conformed copies of contracts including modifications, schedules, funding profiles, and CLIN indexes; monitor production status and deliverables.
Assist with product baseline configuration planning and management IAW MIL-HDBK-67 and ANSI/EIA-649.
Perform economic, budget, and financial analyses including obligations/expenditure forecasting and funds management support.
Prepare briefings and decision support information.
Required Skills:
Due to the sensitivity of customer related requirements, US Citizenship is required.
A Bachelor's degree plus 25 years of relevant experience or a Master's degree plus 15 years of relevant experience is required.
Active DoD Top Secret Security Clearance.
Preferred Skills:
Master's plus 15 years of Relevant Experience.
PMP Certification.
Technical Skills:
DoDAF 2.2 (or later) products; NR-KPP / ISP / IASP / PPP.
JCIDS support; CBA / ICD / CDD / CPD development.
Requirements traceability; DOORS / SysML (or equivalent).
FAR / DoD 5000.2 acquisition program support.
RFP development (SRD / SOO / SOW / CDRL) and source selection support.
Configuration baseline support (MIL-HDBK-67 / ANSI/EIA-649).
Risk management, program schedule execution support, and financial analyses.
Interpersonal Skills:
Ability to support short-notice requirements and accelerated delivery timelines.
Ability to coordinate across functional disciplines and develop briefings/decision support information.

DCS logo

About DCS

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

DCS Corp is a renowned name in the technology industry, headquartered in Alexandria, VA, US. Found in the late 1970s, DCS Corp provides a broad spectrum of advanced technology, engineering, and analytic solutions for national security clients. The firm specializes in delivering sophisticated systems and technology for land, air, and maritime platforms. They are known for being deeply committed to their mission of enhancing national security.

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Alexandria, VA, US

Year founded

1977

Social media