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Darpa Program Manager Jobs in Maryland (NOW HIRING)

DCCA

Program Manager

College Park, MD · On-site

The Program Manager will oversee all contract efforts, serving as the primary point of contact for ... DARPA or IARPA) • Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Computer Science, Engineering (Electrical ...

Amentum

$220K/yr

Support a Government program manager (PM) with technical oversight of very low earth orbit (VLEO ... About DARPA's Tactical Technology Office (TTO): The mission of DARPA's TTO is to reimagine every ...

Motorola

Principal R&D Engineer

California, MD · On-site

With deep roots in DARPA research, Silvus Technologies develops world-class advanced communications ... Technical management of Research and Development projects and programs to include: * Responsibility ...

All JobsDarpa Program JobsDarpa Program Manager JobsDarpa Program Manager Jobs in Maryland

Darpa Program Manager information

See Maryland salary details

$37.4K

$104.3K

$152.4K

How much do darpa program manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for darpa program manager in Maryland is $104,295.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,200.00 and $128,600.00 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.
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What cities in Maryland are hiring for Darpa Program Manager jobs? Cities in Maryland with the most Darpa Program Manager job openings:
Darpa Program Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Darpa Program Manager job openings in Maryland as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% Internship, 50% As Needed, 19% 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 $104,295 per year, or $50.1 per hour.

Program Manager

DCCA

College Park, MD • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:
DCCA is a veteran-owned IT business specializing in providing innovative solutions to government agencies and commercial enterprises. The Program Manager will oversee all contract efforts, serving as the primary point of contact for government counterparts and managing contract execution to support national security research and engineering efforts.
Responsibilities:
• Oversee all contract efforts in support of this contract and serve as the primary point of contact for government counterparts.
• Interface with government leadership on daily activities of Contractor work efforts.
• Serve as the single source of programmatic knowledge and ownership of assigned work across the contract.
Qualifications:
Required:
• An active TS/SCI clearance w/ polygraph is required.
• At a minimum, the program manager shall have ten (10) years of experience as a program or project manager leading programs with an annual value of $15 to 25M per year.
• At least one (1) year of experience managing and controlling funds using earned value management (EVM) or similar systems.
• Be PMP, FAC-P/PM mid-level, or be DAWIA Level 2 certified.
• Have knowledge of and experience working with Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR), Defense Federal Acquisition Regulations Supplement (DFARS), DoD 5000 Series, and ICD 801 policies.
• The program manager must possess a current TS Clearance with SCI Eligibility.
Preferred:
• Experience with National Security Agency (NSA), Intelligence Community (IC), or Research organization-focused contracts and missions (e.g. DARPA or IARPA)
• Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Computer Science, Engineering (Electrical, Chemical, Mechanical), Material Science, Physical Science, Physics, or related management degree (e.g. Business)
• Knowledge of and experience with programs and projects focused on the research and development of advanced manufacturing and sensing capabilities, Advanced Computer Systems, and Solid State / Quantum Information Sciences
• Experience with laboratory operations and support services; including facility management
• Experience with IT network operations (e.g. LAN/WAN/Wireless environments, desktop and server operations, and system administration and security architectures)
Company:
DCCA provides database, systems development and related information technology services. Founded in 1982, the company is headquartered in Ellicott City, USA, with a team of 201-500 employees. The company is currently Growth Stage.

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