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Darpa Program Manager Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Arenatechnologies

Technical SETA

Arlington, VA · On-site

The candidate will utilize technical skills to understand the complex problems associated with DARPA programs, while simultaneously providing the necessary management support to execute the day-to ...

ECS

Functional Expert I

Arlington, VA · On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

The successful candidate will support a DARPA program manager by participating in or leading all activities in project management, technical and programmatic risk analysis, program-funded test ...

Pae

DARPA Program Scheduler & Analyst

Arlington, VA · On-site

Develop, maintain, and manage the Integrated Master Schedule (IMS) for the program portfolio * Monitor and analyze integrated program risks and opportunities (IPRO) management, providing actionable ...

ECS

Technical Project Management SETA

Arlington, VA · On-site

The successful candidate will support a DARPA program manager by participating in or leading all activities in project management, technical and programmatic risk analysis, program-funded test ...

Amentum

DARPA Program Scheduler & Analyst

Arlington, VA · On-site

Develop, maintain, and manage the Integrated Master Schedule (IMS) for the program portfolio * Monitor and analyze integrated program risks and opportunities (IPRO) management, providing actionable ...

ECS

Technical SETA - STO

Arlington, VA · On-site

$100K - $230K/yr

The successful candidate will support a DARPA program manager by participating in or leading all activities in project management, technical and programmatic risk analysis, program-funded test ...

ECS

Technical SETA - STO

Arlington, VA · On-site

The successful candidate will support a DARPA program manager by participating in or leading all activities in project management, technical and programmatic risk analysis, program-funded test ...

ECS

Subject Matter Expert I

Arlington, VA · On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

The successful candidate will support a DARPA program manager by participating in or leading all activities in project management, technical and programmatic risk analysis, program-funded test ...

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All JobsDarpa Program JobsDarpa Program Manager JobsDarpa Program Manager Jobs in Reston, VA

Darpa Program Manager information

See Reston, VA salary details

$40.1K

$111.8K

$163.3K

How much do darpa program manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for darpa program manager in Reston, VA is $111,797.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,700.00 and $137,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 popular job titles related to Darpa Program Manager jobs in Reston, VA?

For Darpa Program Manager jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Darpa Program Manager jobs in Reston, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Darpa Program Manager jobs in Reston, VA are:

What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Darpa Program Manager jobs?

Cities near Reston, VA with the most Darpa Program Manager job openings:

Darpa Program Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Darpa Program Manager job openings in Reston, VA as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,797 per year, or $53.7 per hour.

Program Security Representative - Executive Support (DARPA PSS)

Arlington, VA • On-site

CELESTAR
Manufacturing • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about CELESTARexternal

$150K - $205K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Provide specialized program security support to senior DARPA leadership and support classified activities.

  • Plan, organize, and present classified briefings and coordinate access for classified meetings and engagements.

  • Manage security logistics, maintain accountability for classified documents, and support secure data transfers.

Job description

Celestar, a B&A Company, is seeking a Program Security Representative - Executive Support to support the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) Program Security Services (PSS) task order. If interested and meet the qualifications, we encourage you to apply for this rewarding and impactful opportunity.
ANTICIPATED AWARD: February/March 2027
ANTICIPATED START: March 2027
PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE: 1 Base Year + 4 Option Years
LOCATION: Arlington, Virginia
Salary Range: $150,000-$205,000 annually
Actual compensation will be based on experience, qualifications, certifications, security clearance, and contract funding. This position is contingent upon contract award.
CLEARANCE REQUIREMENT: Active TS/SCI Clearance, adjudicated within the past five (5) years
About Us:
Celestar, a B&A Company, offers highly competitive salaries and benefits. Our comprehensive benefits package includes company-paid employee and family dental insurance, employee health insurance, life insurance, and disability coverage. Additionally, we provide a 401(k)-retirement plan with company matching, paid holidays, and personal time off.
Responsibilities:
• Provide specialized program security support to the DARPA Director, Deputy Director, Chief of Staff, Service Liaison Officers, and other senior staff.
• Communicate across senior levels of DoD, the Intelligence Community, Executive Branch, and Legislative Branch in support of classified activities.
• Plan, organize, and present classified briefings for senior DARPA leadership.
• Provide day-to-day classified logistics and information security support.
• Plan classified logistics for offsite senior-leader engagements.
• Coordinate access and attendance for classified CONUS and OCONUS meetings, demonstrations, exercises, and conferences.
• Provide security and program protection advice to the DARPA Director and Deputy Director.
• Research and assemble background/reference materials for Agency leadership.
• Maintain personnel security accesses and conduct indoctrinations and debriefings.
• Manage SAPFs and SCIFs supporting the DARPA Director and Deputy Director.
• Conduct secure data transfers across networks of varying classification levels.
• Maintain accountability for classified documents and media.
• Support and represent the DARPA SAPCO in interactions with DoD SAP organizations.
Required Qualifications and Skills (Must Be Reflected on Your Resume):
• A Bachelor's degree with 5 years of related DoD or IC program security experience -OR- an Associate's degree with 8 years of related experience.
• At least 5 years of demonstrated experience directly supporting senior DoD or IC leaders at the General/Flag Officer or Senior Executive Service (SES) level.
• Demonstrated understanding of senior-level protocol and classified operations.
• Strong program security, information security, logistics, briefing, coordination, and executive communication capabilities.
• Headquarters-level experience within a DoD agency, highly desired.
Come on board with a company that Values its Employees!
Celestar Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The Celestar Corporation prohibits discrimination, harassment, and retaliation in employment based on race; color; religion; genetic information; national origin; sex (including same-sex); sexual orientation; gender identity; pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions; age; disability or handicap; citizenship status; marital status; service member/protected veteran status; or any other category protected by federal, state, or local law.

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