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Darpa Program Manager Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Detect-ION

Embedded Electronics Engineer

Tampa, FL · On-site

$135K - $145K/yr

... program managers working on innovative R&D projects for the US government and commercial ... DARPA awards, has developed several disruptive sensor technologies for a broad range of high-value ...

Detect-ION

Embedded Electronics Engineer

Tampa, FL · On-site

$135K - $145K/yr

... program managers working on innovative R&D projects for the US government and commercial ... DARPA awards, has developed several disruptive sensor technologies for a broad range of high-value ...

All JobsDarpa Program JobsDarpa Program Manager JobsDarpa Program Manager Jobs in Florida

Darpa Program Manager information

See Florida salary details

$28.8K

$80.3K

$117.3K

How much do darpa program manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for darpa program manager in Florida is $80,304.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,400.00 and $99,000.00 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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Darpa Program Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Darpa Program Manager job openings in Florida as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% Internship, 49% As Needed, 20% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 21% Nights, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 87% Physical, 7% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,304 per year, or $38.6 per hour.
Business Development Manager - Special Operations (SOCOM)

Business Development Manager - Special Operations (SOCOM)

Saronic Technologies

Tampa, FL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

Job description

Saronic Technologies is a leader in revolutionizing autonomy at sea, dedicated to developing state-of-the-art solutions that enhance maritime operations through autonomous and intelligent platforms.
Job Overview
Saronic is seeking a Business Development Manager to lead growth initiatives across the U.S. Special Operations community. This individual will be responsible for identifying, qualifying, capturing, and shaping opportunities that expand Saronic's presence within USSOCOM, SOF Components, and adjacent mission organizations.
The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of Special Operations missions, DoD acquisition processes, and autonomous maritime technologies. They will leverage an established network across government, industry, and end users to develop strategic partnerships, influence requirements, and drive opportunities from early customer engagement through contract award.
Responsibilities
  • Develop and execute the business development strategy for USSOCOM and related Special Operations organizations.
  • Build and maintain trusted relationships with key stakeholders across USSOCOM, TSOCs, SOF Components, Program Executive Offices, Program Managers, operational units, and acquisition organizations.
  • Identify, qualify, and mature new opportunities across autonomous maritime systems, unmanned surface vessels (USVs), maritime ISR, logistics, force protection, and expeditionary operations.
  • Develop and manage a qualified pipeline from early customer engagement through capture, proposal, negotiation, and award.
  • Influence customer requirements by maintaining regular engagement with operators, acquisition professionals, and mission planners.
  • Lead capture planning, competitive assessments, win strategies, and customer engagement activities for priority pursuits.
  • Partner with Engineering, Product Management, Government Affairs, and Program Management to align customer needs with Saronic's product roadmap.
  • Represent Saronic at SOF industry conferences, experimentation events, demonstrations, exercises, and customer engagements.
  • Identify strategic partnerships with prime contractors, technology companies, and mission partners to strengthen competitive positioning.
  • Monitor acquisition strategies, funding opportunities, congressional priorities, and emerging SOF capability gaps to inform business strategy.
  • Support proposal development, pricing strategy, and contract negotiations for strategic opportunities.
  • Maintain accurate opportunity forecasting, pipeline reporting, and CRM data.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Business, Engineering, Political Science, International Relations, or a related field.
  • 8+ years of business development, capture, military, or government experience supporting the Department of Defense.
  • Demonstrated success winning and capturing DoD opportunities from identification through contract award.
  • Existing relationships across USSOCOM, SOF Components, Program Executive Offices, acquisition organizations, or the broader Special Operations enterprise.
  • Strong understanding of DoD and SOF acquisition processes, OTA agreements, FAR-based contracting, SBIR/STTR programs, and rapid acquisition pathways.
  • Knowledge of autonomous systems, unmanned maritime platforms, defense technology, or related capabilities.
  • Excellent executive communication, presentation, negotiation, and relationship management skills.
  • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced startup environment with minimal oversight.
  • Willingness to travel approximately 40-60%.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Former Special Operations military experience (e.g., SEAL, SWCC, MARSOC, Army Special Forces, Ranger Regiment, Air Force Special Warfare, or Coast Guard MSRT/MSST) or extensive experience supporting the SOF community.
  • Existing network across USSOCOM headquarters, SOF Components, TSOCs, PEO-SOF Warrior, SOFWERX, DIU, NavalX, DARPA, and other defense innovation organizations.
  • Experience with autonomous systems, unmanned surface vessels, maritime operations, ISR, C5ISR, or AI-enabled defense technologies.
  • Experience supporting demonstrations, exercises, experimentation campaigns, or operational user evaluations.

Physical Demands
  • Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer
  • Occasional standing and walking within the office
  • Manual dexterity to operate a computer keyboard, mouse, and other office equipment
  • Visual acuity to read screens, documents, and reports
  • Occasional reaching, bending, or stooping to access file drawers, cabinets, or office supplies
  • Lifting and carrying items up to 20 pounds occasionally (e.g., office supplies, packages)

Benefits
Medical Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance plans covering a range of services
Saronic pays 100% of the premium for employees and 80% for dependents
Dental and Vision Insurance: Coverage for routine dental check-ups, orthodontics, and vision care
Saronic pays 100% of the premium under the basic plan for employees and 80% for dependents
Time Off: Generous PTO and Holidays
Parental Leave: Paid maternity and paternity leave to support new parents
Competitive Salary: Industry-standard salaries with opportunities for performance-based bonuses
Retirement Plan: 401(k) plan with company match
Stock Options: Equity options to give employees a stake in the company's success
Life and Disability Insurance: Basic life insurance and short- and long-term disability coverage
Pet Insurance: Discounted pet insurance options including 24/7 Telehealth helpline
Additional Perks: Free lunch benefit and unlimited free drinks and snacks in the office
Saronic CCPA Notice for Candidates and California Employees
If this role is based in the United States, it requires access to export-controlled information or items that require "U.S. Person" status. As defined by U.S. law, individuals who are any one of the following are considered to be a "U.S. Person": (1) U.S. citizens, (2) legal permanent residents (a.k.a. green card holders), and (3) certain protected classes of asylees and refugees, as defined in 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).
Saronic does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, color, religion, age, national origin, marital status, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other reason prohibited by law in provision of employment opportunities and benefits. We are also committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.

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