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Darpa Program Manager Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

General Atomics

Program Manager III

Boulder, CO · On-site

$112K - $205K/yr

... NRL, DARPA, and others. The candidate will be responsible for understanding the technical ... Manage all phases of the program(s) from conceptualization through completion, including ...

New

Ursa Major

Chief Engineer, Vehicle

Berthoud, CO · On-site

$175K - $230K/yr

Partner with Program Management to balance performance, cost, schedule, and risk. * Support ... Background working with DoD, DARPA, or classified programs. * Familiarity with model-based systems ...

Ursa Major

Chief Engineer, Vehicle

Berthoud, CO

$175K - $230K/yr

Partner with Program Management to balance performance, cost, schedule, and risk. * Support ... Background working with DoD, DARPA, or classified programs. * Familiarity with model-based systems ...

Ursa Major

Chief Engineer, Vehicle

Berthoud, CO · On-site

$175K - $230K/yr

Partner with Program Management to balance performance, cost, schedule, and risk. * Support ... Background working with DoD, DARPA, or classified programs. * Familiarity with model-based systems ...

Ursa Major

Chief Engineer, Vehicle

Longmont, CO

$175K - $230K/yr

Partner with Program Management to balance performance, cost, schedule, and risk. * Support ... Background working with DoD, DARPA, or classified programs. * Familiarity with model-based systems ...

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Darpa Program Manager information

See Colorado salary details

$40.5K

$113K

$165.1K

How much do darpa program manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for darpa program manager in Colorado is $112,997.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,600.00 and $139,300.00 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.
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What cities in Colorado are hiring for Darpa Program Manager jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Darpa Program Manager job openings:
Darpa Program Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Darpa Program Manager job openings in Colorado as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% Internship, 50% As Needed, 20% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 21% Nights, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 88% Physical, 7% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,997 per year, or $54.3 per hour.
Program Manager III

Program Manager III

General Atomics

Boulder, CO • On-site

$112K - $205K/yr

Full-time

Posted yesterday

Job description

Job Summary
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), an affiliate of General Atomics, is a world leader in proven, reliable remotely piloted aircraft and tactical reconnaissance radars, as well as advanced high-resolution surveillance systems.
This position will lead the development of new technologies through collaboration with Government Science and Technology labs such as AFRL, NRL, DARPA, and others. The candidate will be responsible for understanding the technical capability gaps of interest within the Department of War and collaborating with government stakeholders to plan, propose, and execute technology development efforts. Lead technical teams to achieve program technical, cost, and schedule objectives.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Manage all phases of the program(s) from conceptualization through completion, including acquisition, planning, and managing technical performance to ensure objectives are attained.
  • Act as the primary customer contact for program activities and lead program review sessions with customers to discuss cost, schedule, and technical performance.
  • Participate with engineering teams to establish design concepts, criteria, and engineering efforts for product research, development, testing, and integration.
  • Interact with internal and external representatives at various levels concerning resolution of technical and scheduling issues. Act as primary contact for program issues.
  • Influence, and coordinate the preparation of proposals, business plans, proposal work statements and specifications, operating budgets, and financial terms/conditions of contract(s). Influence contract acquisitions, negotiations and modifications.
  • Ensure technical leadership and excellence is maintained by participating in the planning, attraction, selection, retention, and development of the required management, professional, and technical talent.
  • Identify program issues and provide leadership in developing solutions such as re-allocation of resources or modifying contract specification.
  • Contribute to the development of new business opportunities and expansion of existing business opportunities.
  • Manage the development of and ensure the security of proprietary technology, and maintain the strict confidentiality of sensitive information.
  • Other duties as assigned or required.
We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.
Job Qualifications
  • Typically requires a Bachelors, Masters or PhD in engineering, science or a related technical field as well as eleven or more years of progressively complex program administration experience. May substitute equivalent experience in lieu of education.
  • Demonstrates technical expertise and application of program management principles, concepts, and practice as well as program management and leadership skills including organizing, planning, scheduling, and coordinating workloads to meet established deadlines or milestones.
  • Must be able to develop solutions to problems that require coordination of technologies across program requirements.
  • Strong communication, leadership, presentation, and interpersonal skills are required to enable an effective interface with other departments, all levels of management, professional and support staff, customers, potential customers, and government representatives.
  • Customer focused, must be able to work on a self-initiated basis and in a team environment, and able to work extended hours and travel as required.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a DOD security clearance.
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About General Atomics

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

General Atomics (GA), and its affiliated companies, is one of the world's leading resources for high-technology systems development ranging from the nuclear fuel cycle to remotely piloted aircraft, airborne sensors, and advanced electric, electronic, wireless and laser technologies.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Diego, CA, US

Year founded

1955

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