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Darpa Program Manager Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

With deep roots in DARPA research, Silvus Technologies develops world-class advanced communications ... Leadership, management, and program management experience. * Deep technical understanding of ...

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Darpa Program Manager information

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$38.9K

$108.5K

$158.5K

How much do darpa program manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for darpa program manager in Wisconsin is $108,466.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,200.00 and $133,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much does a DARPA program manager make?

A DARPA program manager typically earns 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 associated with government employment.

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.

How much does DARPA pay?

DARPA program managers typically earn between $150,000 and $200,000 annually, depending on experience and qualifications. Salaries are aligned with federal government pay scales for senior research and program management roles, often requiring security clearances and specialized expertise.

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.

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, requiring extensive experience in research, engineering, or science, along with a strong track record of innovation. Candidates often need advanced degrees, security clearances, and a demonstrated ability to manage complex projects. The hiring process involves rigorous evaluation and interviews, reflecting the agency's focus on high-level expertise and mission alignment.

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 are achieved within specified timelines.
What are popular job titles related to Darpa Program Manager jobs in Wisconsin? For Darpa Program Manager jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Director of Business Development, U.S. Navy

Director of Business Development, U.S. Navy

Motorola

On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Posted yesterday


Motorola Solutions rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 39 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 139 rated electronics manufacturers


Job description

Company Overview

At Motorola Solutions, we believe that everything starts with our people. We're a global close-knit community, united by the relentless pursuit to help keep people safer everywhere. We build and connect technologies to help protect people, property and places. Our solutions foster the collaboration that's critical for safer communities, safer schools, safer hospitals, safer businesses, and ultimately, safer nations. Connect with a career that matters, and help us build a safer future.


Department OverviewSilvus Technologies, a leading provider of advanced MANET and MIMO communications systems, is reshaping mesh network technology for mission-critical applications - on the ground, in the air and at sea. Its battle-proven StreamCaster family of MANET radios and proprietary MN-MIMO waveform provides the vital communications link for defense, law enforcement and public safety agencies around the world, and in the toughest operational environments.
With deep roots in DARPA research, Silvus Technologies develops world-class advanced communications technologies that are reshaping the tactical communications landscape. From pure line-of-sight to extreme non-line-of-sight, Silvus radios form a self-healing, self-forming mesh network, enabling secure and reliable connectivity, including video and high-bandwidth data.
Silvus Technologies is a wholly owned subsidiary of Motorola Solutions, Inc.
Job Description

Would you like to join an incredibly talented group of people, doing very challenging work, with the prime directive of "Keeping Our Heroes Connected"?

THE OPPORTUNITY

The Director of Business Development, U.S. Navy reports to the Market Development Executive, U.S. Navy and is responsible for long-term horizon scanning and opportunity shaping, focusing on managing and driving multi-year pursuits for assigned strategic programs. This role builds deep and wide relationships with all buying influences (end-user, OEM, prime, reseller, PM offices) to influence capability requirements towards Silvus solutions and capture large, long-cycle programs.

This position is eligible for 100% remote work depending on location.

The following is a list of at least some of the current essential job functions of the position. Management may assign or reassign duties and responsibilities at any time at its discretion.

ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Program Capture: Take ownership of and drive the capture process for large-scale, multi-year U.S Navy programs.

  • Relationship Building: Identify, cultivate, and maintain deep relationships with all buying influences on assigned programs, including Program Offices (PEOs/PMs), prime contractors, OEM partners, and key end-user communities.

  • Requirements Shaping: Proactively work with customers and partners to influence technical requirements for long-term programs, positioning Silvus's MN-MIMO technology as a critical component.

  • Strategic Pursuits: Manage the full lifecycle of long-cycle pursuits, from initial identification and qualification (horizon scanning) to proposal and award.

  • Cross-Functional Teaming: Collaborate closely with the Market Development Executive (MDE) to align high-level strategy and with Account Sales to ensure a smooth transition of "landed" programs for near-term execution.

  • Market Intelligence: Stay updated on market trends, competitor actions, and funding priorities related to assigned programs to inform capture strategy.

  • Perform other related duties of which the above are representative.

  • Travel Requirements - Up to 50% of the time will be required to facilitate strong customer engagement; as needed to advance company goals and profitability.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university; or High School Diploma/GED with at least 8 years of relevant experience.

  • Minimum 5+ years of experience in defense sales or business development, specifically focused on the U.S. Navy.

  • Proven track record of capturing complex, long-cycle DoD programs (Programs of Record).

  • Demonstrated experience building relationships within U.S. Navy Acquisition offices and with relevant prime contractors.

  • Experience leading all phases of business capture (whitepapers, proposals, RFI/RFP response, teaming, strategic positioning).

  • Practical understanding of product development, technology transitioning, and marketing/product planning for US military applications.

  • Knowledge of conducting and directing competitive product analysis using market research techniques and a solid technical understanding of service/agency needs and requirements.

  • Strong persuasive communication and executive briefing skills.

  • Deep familiarity with U.S. Navy organizational structure, acquisition processes, and capability development lifecycle.

  • Solid understanding of US DoD funding and procurement cycles.

  • Must be a U.S. Citizen due to clients under U.S. government contracts.

  • All employment is contingent upon the successful clearance of a background check and drug test.

PREFERRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

  • Prior U.S. military service or civilian experience.

  • Leadership, management, and program management experience.

  • Deep technical understanding of tactical communications, MANET, C5ISR, and U.S. Military tactical communications networks.

WORKING CONDITIONS AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Home office environment.

  • Indoor air-conditioned facility.

  • Trade shows.

  • Occasional exposure to heat, cold, and allergens while performing tests or demonstrations in the field.

  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to do the following:

    • Lift equipment up to 50 lbs. for the set-up of demonstrations and testing.

    • Manage the movement of large suitcase-size Pelican cases (i.e. travel, demos, etc.)

COMPENSATION: $180,000 - $200,000 USD / annual base salary plus opportunity for milestone incentives

Potential OTE: $257,000 - $286,000 USD / annually

#silvuscareers

Consistent with Motorola Solutions values and applicable law, we provide the following information to promote pay transparency and equity. Pay within this range varies and depends on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. The actual offer will be based on the individual candidate.

NOTE - As a US Federal Contractor, Silvus Technologies requires that ALL candidates being considered for employment for any position (regardless of level) MUST be a U.S. Person (permanent resident or citizen). Stricter U.S. Citizen ONLY requirements (needed for some Sales, Engineering, or R&D roles) will be included in the Required Qualifications section of the posted position. This does NOT apply to international positions; only job postings for positions located in the US.


Basic Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited university or college; or High School Diploma/GED with at least 8 years of relevant experience.
  • Minimum 5+ years of experience in defense sales or business development, specifically focused on the US Navy.
  • Proven track record of capturing complex, long-cycle DoD programs (Programs of Record).
  • Experience leading all phases of business capture (whitepapers, proposals, RFI/RFP response, teaming, strategic positioning).
  • Deep familiarity with US Navy organizational structure, acquisition processes, and capability development lifecycle.
  • Solid understanding of US DoD funding and procurement cycles.
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen due to clients under U.S. government contracts.
  • All employment is contingent upon the successful clearance of a background check and drug test.

Travel Requirements25-50%
Relocation ProvidedNone
Position TypeExperienced
Referral Payment PlanYes

Our U.S.Benefitsinclude:

  • Incentive Bonus Plans

  • Medical, Dental, Visionbenefits

  • 401K with Company Match

  • 10 Paid Holidays

  • GenerousPaidTime Off Packages

  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan

  • PaidParental & Family Leave

  • and more!


EEO Statement

Motorola Solutions is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status or any other legally-protected characteristic.

We are proud of our people-first and community-focused culture, empowering every Motorolan to be their most authentic self and to do their best work to deliver on the promise of a safer world. If you'd like to join our team but feel that you don't quite meet all of the preferred skills, we'd still love to hear why you think you'd be a great addition to our team.

We're committed to providing an inclusive and accessible recruiting experience for candidates with disabilities, or other physical or mental health conditions. To request an accommodation, please complete thisReasonable Accommodations Formso we can assist you.


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About Motorola Solutions

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Motorola Solutions, we believe that everything starts with safety. It's the constant that empowers people to confidently move forward. It can fill a flight or sell out a stadium. It can care for a patient or graduate a class. As a global leader in public safety and enterprise security, we create and connect the technologies that help to keep people safe where they live, learn, work and play. Our integrated technology ecosystem unifies critical communications, video security and access control, and command center software, enabling collaboration in more powerful ways. At Motorola Solutions, we're ushering in a new era in public safety and security. Bring your passion, potential and talents to a career that matters.

Industry

Technology, communication and media

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

1928