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Darpa Program Manager Jobs in Arkansas (NOW HIRING)

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Darpa Program Manager information

See Arkansas salary details

$31.8K

$88.9K

$129.8K

How much do darpa program manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for darpa program manager in Arkansas is $88,860.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,700.00 and $109,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Darpa Program Manager vs DARPA Contract Officer?

AspectDarpa Program ManagerDARPA Contract Officer
CredentialsAdvanced degrees in science, engineering, or related fields; experience in project managementBachelor's or master's degree in business, finance, or related fields; contracting experience
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, project teams, innovation-focused settingsGovernment procurement offices, contract management divisions
Employer & IndustryU.S. Department of Defense, research and development sectorU.S. Department of Defense, procurement and contracting sector

While both roles operate within DARPA and the defense industry, Darpa Program Managers focus on overseeing innovative research projects, whereas DARPA Contract Officers handle procurement and contract administration. Understanding these distinctions helps candidates target their skills and career goals effectively.

What are DARPA Program Managers?

DARPA Program Managers are specialized professionals who oversee and guide cutting-edge research and development projects funded by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA). They are responsible for conceptualizing new programs, managing project execution, coordinating with researchers and industry partners, and ensuring that projects meet ambitious technical goals. Program Managers typically have strong scientific or engineering backgrounds and are selected for their vision, expertise, and ability to drive innovation. Their work is critical to developing breakthrough technologies that enhance national security and defense capabilities.

How much do DARPA program managers make?

DARPA program managers typically earn between $150,000 and $200,000 annually, depending on experience and qualifications. They often hold advanced degrees and have expertise in science, engineering, or technology, with additional benefits such as government health insurance and retirement plans.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a DARPA Program Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a DARPA Program Manager, you need an advanced degree in a STEM field, extensive research experience, and a proven track record in technology innovation or project leadership. Familiarity with government contracting, proposal review systems, and technical evaluation tools is typically required. Exceptional communication, strategic vision, and the ability to collaborate across disciplines are vital soft skills for success in this role. These competencies are crucial for effectively guiding high-risk, high-reward research projects that advance national security and technological innovation.

What are some unique challenges faced by DARPA Program Managers when overseeing innovative research projects?

DARPA Program Managers often face the challenge of managing high-risk, high-reward research initiatives that may not have clear precedents or guaranteed outcomes. They must coordinate multidisciplinary teams, balance ambitious timelines, and navigate strict government compliance requirements. Additionally, PMs need to foster collaboration between academia, industry, and government while ensuring projects remain aligned with DARPA's mission to drive transformative breakthroughs. This requires agility, resilience, and strong communication skills to adapt to changing priorities and technical uncertainties.

Is it hard to get a job at DARPA?

Securing a position as a DARPA program manager is highly competitive due to the organization's focus on advanced research and innovation. Candidates typically need extensive experience in science, engineering, or technology, along with a strong track record of project management and security clearances. The hiring process involves rigorous evaluation, interviews, and background checks.

What does a DARPA program manager do?

A DARPA program manager oversees the development and execution of advanced research projects in emerging technologies. They manage project teams, allocate funding, set technical goals, and coordinate with government agencies and industry partners to ensure innovative solutions meet strategic objectives.

What is the average salary for DARPA?

DARPA program managers are federal employees, and their salaries typically range from approximately $130,000 to $180,000 annually, depending on experience and seniority. These roles often require advanced technical expertise, security clearances, and project management skills. Compensation may also include benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.
What are popular job titles related to Darpa Program Manager jobs in Arkansas? For Darpa Program Manager jobs in Arkansas, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Darpa Program Manager jobs in Arkansas look for? The top searched job categories for Darpa Program Manager jobs in Arkansas are:
Darpa Program Manager jobs near you
Executive Director (STATION NWA)

Executive Director (STATION NWA)

Capital Factory

Bentonville, AR • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Bentonville, Arkansas, United States
STATION NWA Team reporting to SVP Operations
Full-time, Hybrid
This is a role for a connector, a visionary, and a builder ready to make Northwest Arkansas a nationally recognized home for innovation. STATION NWA is a new nonprofit entity launching in Bentonville, AR to increase connectivity between Northwest Arkansas' (NWA) entrepreneurial ecosystem and the rest of the country, with a special focus on dual-use and deep tech and its direct connection to innovation within manufacturing, supply chain and logistics.
As the inaugural Executive Director, you'll have the opportunity to shape this new hub from the ground up. You'll recruit and lead a talented local team, cultivating regional partnerships, and connecting NWA to a powerful national network of startups, investors, and government innovators. You'll collaborate with leaders from federal agencies like DARPA and U.S. Army Transformation and Training Command (T2COM), engage with creative partners like The Momentary, and build bridges between founders, funders, and Fortune 500s.
Requirements
What you will do...
  • Lead and Grow STATION NWA: Execute a strategic plan to position Bentonville and Northwest Arkansas as a hub for dual-use, manufacturing, and supply chain innovation.
  • Support Entrepreneurs: Facilitate mentorship and expertise for local entrepreneurs, connecting them with their next investors, mentors, customers and partners.
  • Host High-Impact Programs: Deliver programming tailored to the needs of Northwest Arkansas entrepreneurial community
  • Drive Investment and Relocation: Help raise $1M for NWA startups and attract three businesses to establish a local presence.
  • Secure Station Sustainability: Raise a minimum of $1M in funding to grow Station NWA's reach and long-term impact

You'll know you're successful if....
  • 100+ Northwest Arkansas founders receive direct mentorship and expert guidance through STATION NWA programs.
  • STATION NWA delivers at least five Cup of Capital sessions, five Innovation Sessions, five educational workshops, five dual-use/supply chain dinners, and one Made in America Dual Use Summit, exceeding targets for registration, attendance, and sponsorship.
  • $1M+ in investment is raised for Northwest Arkansas startups, and an additional $1M+ secured to support Station NWA's operations and long-term sustainability.
  • At least three companies establish or expand their presence in Northwest Arkansas through STATION-led engagement and partnerships.
  • STATION NWA demonstrates measurable growth in strategic partnerships, investor participation, and regional media visibility within its first year.

About you...
  • You are a visionary builder who turns big ideas into reality, driving innovation and execution across technology, defense, and manufacturing sectors in fast-growing regions like Northwest Arkansas.
  • You are a connector of ecosystems, building powerful partnerships across government, academia, and industry to elevate Bentonville as a national center for dual-use and supply chain innovation.
  • You are a dealmaker and champion, confident in asking for support, closing funding, and mobilizing resources that fuel founders and transform communities.
  • You are a storyteller with influence, able to inspire stakeholders, attract investment, and expand STATION NWA's visibility across Arkansas and beyond.
  • You are calm in the chaos, thriving in fast-paced environments while keeping a clear focus on long-term impact for the region's innovation economy.
  • You check your email in the evenings and are available to work during evening events and over the weekends when there is a tight deadline. You do what it takes to get the job done.

About our team...
  • We have a passion for startups and technology.
  • We are transparent and we over-communicate.
  • We have excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • We communicate when we are not able to meet a deadline and suggest a solution.
  • We are professional and presentable and greet everyone cheerfully. We're ready to deal with an immature student, a pushy salesperson, top VC's, a fortune 500 CEO, and even the President of the United States.
  • We are excited to work in Bentonville, Arkansas and have reliable transportation.
  • We have a quiet place where we can work remotely with fast internet.
  • We are security aware. We have a passcode on our computers and phones and use a password manager.
  • We are able to efficiently use the Google suite of productivity tools (Gmail, Drive, Docs, Sheets, Slides).
  • We are available to work at CF House during SXSW (Spring Break), DREAMCON (one week long staff summits twice a year), and Austin Tech Week.
  • We get to Inbox Zero every day.

Benefits
  • 4 weeks paid time off (one week is between Christmas and New Year's)
  • Personal health, vision and dental insurance paid 100% by STATION NWA
  • Additional benefits such as 401k program (50% company matching), life insurance, short & long term disability and and employee assistance program
  • Parental leave including 10 weeks paid leave for birthing parents and 4 weeks paid leave for non-birthing parents
  • $1,000 personal innovation budget on your first year anniversary and then an additional $500 each anniversary thereafter
  • Coworking membership at Capital Factory with garage parking space, metro pass, or rideshare credits and access to the onsite gym
  • A priceless network
  • Yearly salary of $150,000 plus OTE

STATION NWA is the latest expansion of STATION's ecosystem. STATION NWA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit designed to anchor supply chain and manufacturing innovation in Northwest Arkansas. By launching a dedicated physical space and integrated digital community in Bentonville, STATION NWA will connect regional entrepreneurs with national resources and opportunities. The nonprofit will serve as a conduit between startups and collaborators in both the public and private sectors, with a special focus on dual-use applications that align with the region's commercial strengths. Core activities will include startup mentorship, educational academies, investor engagement, and national event programming.

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