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Darpa Program Manager Jobs in Miami, FL (NOW HIRING)

... Management, sponsors and other relevant offices to ensure that sponsored research projects are ... Sponsored programs administration experience in a university setting preferred. Any appropriate ...

Darpa Program Manager information

See Miami, FL salary details

$36.8K

$102.8K

$150.2K

How much do darpa program manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for darpa program manager in Miami, FL is $102,780.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,000.00 and $126,700.00 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 is a DARPA Program Manager?

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.
What are popular job titles related to Darpa Program Manager jobs in Miami, FL? For Darpa Program Manager jobs in Miami, FL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Darpa Program Manager jobs in Miami, FL look for? The top searched job categories for Darpa Program Manager jobs in Miami, FL are:
What cities near Miami, FL are hiring for Darpa Program Manager jobs? Cities near Miami, FL with the most Darpa Program Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Darpa Program Manager job openings in Miami, FL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,780 per year, or $49.4 per hour.

ORA Grant Administrator

University of Miami

Miami, FL • On-site

Other

Re-posted 27 days ago


University Of Miami rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 52 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

256th of 615 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Grant Administrator

The Office of Research Administration (ORA) has an exciting job opportunity for an ORA Grant Administrator to work at the Coral Gables Campus.

The Grant Administrator works independently to review completed sponsored proposal applications and negotiate awards in adherence to sponsoring agency and University of Miami requirements. The Grant Administrator is responsible for providing institutional-level sponsored research administration services to a portfolio of academic departments and research units among all University campuses, including communicating with extramural agencies.

Core Job Functions

  • Reviews, analyzes, negotiates and endorses completed proposals and awards to ensure use of the correct processes, forms and submission requirements.
  • Communicates with extramural agencies on proposal and grant-related matters.
  • Provides advice to faculty and staff regarding sponsored research administration issues, interpreting a broad range of sponsor policies, government regulations and terms and conditions.
  • Collaborates with other University groups such as Principal Investigators and study teams, Compliance, IRB (Human Subject Research Office), Risk Management, sponsors and other relevant offices to ensure that sponsored research projects are managed in an efficient and effective manner consistent with UM policies and procedures, and applicable agency guidelines, laws and regulations.

Core Qualifications

Education:

Bachelor's degree in relevant field.

Certification and Licensing:

Certified Clinical Research Associate (CRA) preferred

Experience:

Minimum 4 years of relevant/related experience in research administration, including proposal development review and submission, and award review and setup. Sponsored programs administration experience in a university setting preferred. Any appropriate combination of relevant education and/or experience may be considered.

Knowledge, Skills and Attitudes:

  • Knowledge of University and Federal agency requirements including NIH, DOD/DARPA, NSF, FAA, and DOE, and OMB Circulars, Export Control Regulations, Federal Acquisition Regulations.
  • Knowledge of Sponsor and University systems (i.e., Huron Research suite, grants.gov, eRA Commons, DMAS) preferred.
  • Ability to work independently and exercise independent judgment and professionalism.
  • Ability to stay current on relevant professional information by attending professional development opportunities and trainings.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills with outstanding customer service skills.
  • Professional experience and judgment to effectively serve faculty and sponsors while protecting, representing and advancing the University's best interests.
  • Ability to work well under deadline pressures without sacrificing accuracy, customer service, collegiality or ethics.
  • Knowledge of generally accepted accounting procedures and principles.
  • Knowledge of budget control methods, policies, and procedures.
  • Ability to prepare financial and accounting records.
  • Ability to analyze, consolidate, and interpret accounting data.
  • Ability to compile, organize, interpret, and communicate accounting data and results concisely.
  • Ability to manage a budget and work within the constraints of that budget.
  • Strong analytic skills.

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About University of Miami

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Miami, located in the beautiful Coral Gables, Florida, is a comprehensive, private research institution in the United States. Operating within the higher education industry, the institution offers a multitude of degree programs spanning over 180 majors and program through its 12 colleges. The University was founded in 1925 with the mission to disseminate knowledge, transform lives, and change the world - a mission it has held faithfully to this day. Notably, the University of Miami has gained global recognition for its commitment to research and innovation, with over $324 million in research and sponsored project funding awarded annually.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Coral Gables, FL, US

Year founded

1925