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Darpa Program Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ECS

Senior Science Advisor

Arlington, VA · On-site

$180K - $220K/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 - MTO

Arlington, VA · On-site

$148K - $192K/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

Mid-Scientist with Security Clearance

Arlington, VA · On-site

$100K - $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 ...

ECS

Technical SETA - Quantum

Arlington, VA · On-site

$148K - $192K/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 ...

Systems Planning and Analysis

Technical SETA

Arlington, VA · On-site

$148K - $192K/yr

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 ...

Systems Planning and Analysis

Technical SETA

Arlington, VA · On-site

$148K - $192K/yr

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 ...

Systems Planning and Analysis

Technical SETA

Arlington, VA · On-site

$148K - $192K/yr

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 ...

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Darpa Program Manager information

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$38.5K

$107.5K

$157K

How much do darpa program manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for darpa program manager in the United States is $107,460.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,500.00 and $132,500.00 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.

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Darpa Program Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Darpa Program Manager job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,460 per year, or $51.7 per hour.

Senior Program Security Representative (PSR) - DARPA PSS with Security Clearance

CELESTAR CORPORATION

Arlington, VA • On-site

$150K - $205K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Celestar, a B&A Company, is seeking a Senior Program Security Representative (PSR) 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: • Perform the full range of PSR responsibilities described above for complex DARPA technology programs. • Manage security requirements across multiple complex programs and classification environments. • Work independently on complex or special program security projects. • Provide informal leadership, technical guidance, and mentorship to PSRs and Security Administrators. • Develop and implement security architectures, program protection strategies, and security documentation. • Support SAP, SCI, collateral, CUI, and other compartmented programs throughout the program lifecycle. • Coordinate security activities with DARPA Program Managers, PSOs, SETAs, performers, transition partners, and Government organizations. • Support security accreditation, inspections, incident mitigation, program meetings, tests, demonstrations, and closeout activities. • Conduct quality reviews and provide experienced program security recommendations. Required Qualifications and Skills (Must Be Reflected on Your Resume): • A Bachelor's degree with 10 years of related DoD or IC program security experience -OR- an Associate's degree with 12 years of related experience. • Demonstrated knowledge, experience, and leadership ability to balance workload demands across multiple complex programs. • Ability to independently execute special projects and advise/mentor PSRs and Security Administrators. • Broad program security expertise in fundamental research, CUI, SAP/SCI, S&T protection, classification architecture, OPSEC, COMSEC, test security, intelligence oversight, threat support, and secure information/asset handling. • Strong communication, analytical, problem-solving, leadership, and program protection skills. 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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