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Darpa Program Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Kinsley Power Systems

$180K - $240K/yr

Celestar, a B&A Company, is seeking a Program Manager to support the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) Program Security Services (PSS) task order. If interested and meet the ...

Kinsley Power Systems

$150K - $205K/yr

... DARPA technology programs ... Manage security requirements across multiple complex programs and classification environments.

Kinsley Power Systems

$155K - $210K/yr

Develop, coordinate, and manage program protection strategies for DARPA programs and technology thrust areas. * Work with Program Managers, SETAs, PSOs, PSRs, and External Relations personnel to ...

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 ...

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Darpa Program Manager information

See salary details

$38.5K

$107.5K

$157K

How much do darpa program manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 11, 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 September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,460 per year, or $51.7 per hour.

Program Manager - DARPA PSS

On-site

Kinsley Power Systems
Oil and Gas Extraction • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Kinsley Power Systemsexternal

$180K - $240K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Celestar, a B&A Company, is seeking a Program Manager 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: $180,000–$240,000 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
  • Serve as the primary interface with the Government for all matters associated with contract execution.
  • Exercise authority to select, hire, manage, and dismiss personnel as necessary to maintain contract performance.
  • Ensure timely recruitment, onboarding, training, logistics and travel support, and retention of high-quality personnel across all contract positions.
  • Notify the COR and Director, SID of employee resignations and personnel removals, including issues affecting clearance or access eligibility.
  • Provide weekly status updates regarding vacant positions and coordinate Key Personnel vacancies with the appropriate SID Government lead.
  • Proactively engage and support SID leadership and communicate issues that may affect SID operations or activities.
  • Ensure proper accounting, inventory, purchasing, and disposition of Government-furnished equipment and consumable materials.
  • Oversee required contract deliverables and present monthly performance metrics to the COR and Director, SID.
Required Qualifications and Skills (Must Be Reflected on Your Resume)
  • A Bachelor’s degree with 12 years of qualifying related experience -OR- an Associate’s degree with 15 years of qualifying related experience.
  • Recent experience managing a multidiscipline security organization supporting the Federal Government in a classified program environment; DoD or Intelligence Community experience is preferred.
  • At least 5 years of experience directing and managing 75 or more personnel on a Federal Government support contract, in defense industry supporting federally funded programs, as a Federal civilian, or through military service.
  • Expert leadership and mentorship capabilities.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills and ability to effectively interface with Government leadership.
  • Research and development (R&D) management experience, 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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