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Acquisition Program Manager Jobs in Fullerton, CA

This position requires strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills, along with a thorough understanding of BMC3I capabilities, defense acquisition, and enterprise program ...

Internship Program Manager

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$110K - $125K/yr

Basic Qualifications * 3+ years of experience coordinating internship programs, university recruiting, talent acquisition, program management, or related experience * Experience building or scaling ...

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Acquisition Program Manager information

See Fullerton, CA salary details

$45.4K

$90.6K

$156.5K

How much do acquisition program manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for acquisition program manager in Fullerton, CA is $90,559.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,400.00 and $116,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 job categories do people searching Acquisition Program Manager jobs in Fullerton, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Acquisition Program Manager jobs in Fullerton, CA are:

What cities near Fullerton, CA are hiring for Acquisition Program Manager jobs?

Cities near Fullerton, CA with the most Acquisition Program Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Acquisition Program Manager job openings in Fullerton, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,559 per year, or $43.5 per hour.

Senior Acquisition Program Manager

Modern Technology Solutions, Inc.

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$180K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

Note: This is a Hybrid position with the ideal candidate residing near one of our office sites in Los Angeles, CA, Colorado Springs, CO, Dayton, OH, Washington DC or Huntsville, AL.
MTSI is seeking a dynamic, results-driven Senior Acquisition Program Manager to support the SpaceWERX government program office. The successful candidate will oversee a portfolio of space-related innovation projects, coordinate with government stakeholders, manage project execution, and ensure alignment with mission objectives. The Program Manager will also be responsible for ensuring compliance with SpaceWERX's operational and technical guidelines.
Responsibilities:
  • Lead, manage, and coordinate all aspects of the SpaceWERX program portfolio, including schedule, budget, and scope.
  • Interface with government clients and stakeholders to define project requirements, expectations, and deliverables.
  • Ensure the successful execution of innovative space missions and technologies by managing cross-functional teams.
  • Oversee program/project reporting, including progress tracking, risk management, and performance assessments.
  • Develop and maintain project schedules, including milestone tracking, and ensure timely delivery.
  • Provide regular updates to government program office leadership on status, risks, and mitigation strategies.
  • Coordinate meetings and presentations with stakeholders at various levels within government and private sector organizations in support of a strategy.
  • Ensure compliance with all federal regulations and contracting processes, including adherence to security protocols and budget constraints.
  • Oversee the internal transition planning efforts of a portfolio of innovative technologies and create and manage a governance structure for systematically updating and providing leadership with insights on portfolio return on investment.
  • Facilitate collaboration between contractors, subcontractors, and internal teams, ensuring alignment with SpaceWERX goals and objectives.
  • Provide leadership with well formulated courses of action by leveraging real time problem-solving and decision-making skills, especially in high-pressure or fast-paced environments.

Qualifications Required:
Education:
Master's degree; Business, Program Management; Engineering, or other military studies related field OR Bachelor's degree w/ 18 Years of experience
Experience:
  • At least 10 years of experience in program management, preferably supporting government contracts or space-related programs.
  • Proven track record of managing complex, multi-disciplinary projects with government clients.
  • Senior level engagement and briefing experience and providing guidance to senior officials on programs, policies, and strategies
  • Experience sourcing and creating information channels and alliances across multi force structure to support organizational strategies and plans
  • Experience in space technologies, satellite programs, or defense-related projects is highly desirable.
  • Government staff officer experience is a plus
  • Experience working within SpaceWERX/AFWERX or similar innovation initiatives is a plus.

Skills:
  • Strong understanding of federal government contracting, compliance, and acquisition processes and the planning, programming, budget and execution process to include requirements generation.
  • Understanding and application of Joint Planning principles (Joint Publication 5-0).
  • Ability to collect and analyze large amounts of innovation information from large numbers of diverse programs and synthesize current status, trends and effective courses of action are preferred
  • Program management certifications (e.g., DAU, PMP, Agile, or similar) are preferred.
  • Proficient with program management software (e.g., MS Project, Jira, or similar).
  • Exceptional leadership, organizational, and communication skills.
  • Ability to work in a collaborative and cross-functional team environment.
  • Ability to handle multiple priorities, tight deadlines, and shifting priorities

Clearance Requirements:
  • A SECRET Clearance is required. Top Secret security clearance desired.
  • U.S. Citizenship is required

The pay range for this position is $180,000/year to $200,000/year; however, base pay offered may vary depending on established government contract ranges, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience, and other factors. MTSI offers a full range of medical benefits, 401k, ESOP, paid time off, and other benefits, dependent on the position offered. Base pay information is based on market location. Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis. This posting will be renewed periodically until the position is filled.
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