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Darpa Program Manager Jobs in Atlanta, GA (NOW HIRING)

... DARPA. Work is expected to be primarily done in Marietta, GA and Huntsville, AL with additional ... The Program Manager will lead the execution of complex RF system development programs across the ...

Lead Program Manager

Atlanta, GA ยท On-site

$147K - $200K/yr

Our main customer focus is on Air Force, Navy, and DARPA research programs. The Role The SAAM Group is seeking a Lead Program Manager with an engineering background to manage a portfolio of programs ...

... management of these assets to assure the mission success of US air and space assets. SAAM also ... Our main customer focus is on Air Force, Navy, and DARPA research programs. The Role: As an ...

... management of these assets in the service of the survivability and capability of US air and space ... Our main customer focus is on Air Force, Navy, and DARPA research programs. The Role: The SAAM ...

... Navy, DARPA, etc.) and Intelligence Community needs. About the Role: As a Principal Signal ... Active Security Clearance, with eligibility to support special access programs, for which US ...

Principal Defense Systems Analyst

Atlanta, GA ยท On-site

$220K - $260K/yr

... management of these assets in the service of the survivability and capability of US air and space ... Our main customer focus is on Air Force, Navy, and DARPA research programs. The Role: The SAAM ...

... DARPA, etc.) and Intelligence Community needs. About the Role: As a Lead Signal Processing ... Active Security Clearance, with eligibility to support special access programs, for which US ...

... management of these assets in the service of the survivability and capability of US air and space ... Our main customer focus is on Air Force, Navy, and DARPA research programs. The Role: The SAAM ...

... management of these assets to assure the mission success of US air and space assets. SAAM also ... Our main customer focus is on Air Force, Navy, and DARPA research programs. The Role: As an ...

Lead Autonomy Software Engineer

Atlanta, GA ยท On-site

$174K - $225K/yr

... management of these assets to assure the mission success of US air and space assets. SAAM also ... Our main customer focus is on Air Force, Navy, and DARPA research programs. The Role: As an ...

Lead Signal Processing Researcher

Atlanta, GA ยท On-site

$173K - $216K/yr

... DARPA, etc.) and Intelligence Community needs. About the Role: As a Lead Signal Processing ... Active Security Clearance, with eligibility to support special access programs, for which US ...

... Navy, DARPA, etc.) and Intelligence Community needs. About the Role: As a Principal Signal ... Active Security Clearance, with eligibility to support special access programs, for which US ...

... Navy, DARPA, etc.) and Intelligence Community needs. About the Role: As a Principal Signal ... Active Security Clearance, with eligibility to support special access programs, for which US ...

Lead Signal Processing Researcher

Atlanta, GA ยท On-site

$173K - $216K/yr

... DARPA, etc.) and Intelligence Community needs. About the Role: As a Lead Signal Processing ... Active Security Clearance, with eligibility to support special access programs, for which US ...

Darpa Program Manager information

See Atlanta, GA salary details

$37.4K

$104.5K

$152.7K

How much do darpa program manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for darpa program manager in Atlanta, GA is $104,506.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,300.00 and $128,900.00 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 near Atlanta, GA are hiring for Darpa Program Manager jobs? Cities near Atlanta, GA with the most Darpa Program Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Darpa Program Manager job openings in Atlanta, GA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% Internship, 49% As Needed, 20% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 21% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 8% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,506 per year, or $50.2 per hour.
Program Manager

Program Manager

Nou Systems Inc

Marietta, GA โ€ข On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

nou Systems, Inc. (nSI) is now officially a 100% ESOP company! We value teamwork and collaboration, and this transition allows us to take that commitment to a new level. nSI empowers our customers by supplying products, services, and expertise with powerful, data driven insights that transform defense systems and improve capabilities.

We are pleased to announce the opening of a Senior Program Manager who will manage our Precision Pulse Positioning System (3PS) Program and become part of our rapidly growing technology company operating in missile defense, cybersecurity, test range modernization, biotechnology, and space control marketspaces. You will manage our 3PS team directly supporting the development of patented technology for the US Navy and DARPA. Work is expected to be primarily done in Marietta, GA and Huntsville, AL with additional deployments to field testing at military test ranges.

Responsibilities:

The Program Manager will lead the execution of complex RF system development programs across the full product lifecycle, from proposal and concept development through engineering, manufacturing, testing, and demonstration to customers. This role requires a strong technical foundation in RF systems engineering combined with proven program leadership experience to manage cross-functional teams, align technical execution with business objectives, and ensure successful delivery to customer requirements.

The Program Manager will be responsible for the cost, schedule, and technical execution of the programs. They will partner closely with the Senior Technical Fellow to achieve program objectives. This role is expected to provide technical insight into RF system architecturesโ€”including receivers, transmitters, frequency generation, and signal chain designโ€”while enabling teams to execute effectively. The Program Manager will be responsible for driving program reviews, ensuring test readiness, improving operational performance, and fostering innovation through R&D and continuous improvement initiatives.

Basic Qualifications:

  • Masterโ€™s degree in Electrical Engineering or related technical field
  • 10+ years of experience in RF, microwave, or systems engineering
  • 5+ years of experience in program or project management for complex technical programs
  • Experience managing cost, schedule, and technical performance on DoD or similarly complex programs
  • Strong customer engagement and communication skills
  • U.S. Citizenship and ability to obtain or maintain a security clearance is required

Lacking any one of these disqualifies you from this job.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Advanced Degree
  • Experience with EW, radar, SATCOM, or high-frequency RF systems
  • Background in RF components such as amplifiers, filters, synthesizers, or converters
  • Experience with frequency synthesis, low-noise design, or high-frequency system architectures
  • Prior leadership of engineering organizations
  • Experience supporting business development, proposals, and customer-facing technical discussions
  • Active security clearance

nou (pronounced โ€˜newโ€™) Systems:

Since its founding in 2012, nou Systems has built a reputation for excellence in innovative engineering, prototype development, and technical and professional services in multiple markets, including missile defense, cybersecurity, test range modernization, and space control. Our diverse and highly skilled team delivers state-of-the-art products from concepts and prototypes to fully developed and integrated solutions.

We offer significant advancement and personal career development opportunities within our dynamic high-tech company. Our culture is firmly established in treating our employees like family.

Benefits of working at nSI:

nou Systems, Inc. offers a comprehensive, total rewards package that includes competitive compensation and diverse benefits that reflect our company culture of service, excellence, and a supportive work environment. Benefits may vary based on status but the majority of our positions include the following:

  • Competitive Wages*
  • Medical, Rx, Dental & Vision Insurance
  • Medical plan with Health Savings Account eligibility
  • Company-funded Life, Short-Term & Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • Personal Time Off, Vacation, and Paid Holidays
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan
  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Norton LifeLock
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Personal Development, Technical Learning Opportunities, & Lunch-n-Learns
  • Corporate Sponsored Events & Community Outreach

*Final compensation for this position is determined by a variety of factors, such as a candidateโ€™s relevant work experience, skills, certifications, and geographic location.

nSI is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Employment opportunities at nSI are based upon a candidateโ€™s qualifications and capabilities to perform the essential functions of a particular job and are free from discrimination based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law. For our complete EEO/AA and Pay Transparency statement, please visit www.nou-systems.com/workingatnou. U.S. citizenship is required for most positions.