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Darpa Program Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Darpa Program information

See California salary details

$21.2K

$45.1K

$62.2K

How much do darpa program jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for darpa program in California is $45,123.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,000.00 and $46,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 expertise in science or engineering, experience leading research projects, and often an advanced degree (e.g., PhD) in a relevant field. Familiarity with project management tools, government contracting processes, and technical proposal evaluation is typically required. Strategic vision, strong communication, and the ability to inspire and coordinate multidisciplinary teams are standout soft skills. These abilities are crucial for successfully designing, launching, and managing high-impact, innovative research programs that address complex national challenges.

What is the average salary for DARPA?

DARPA program positions typically offer salaries comparable to federal government pay scales, with GS-13 to GS-15 levels, ranging from approximately $80,000 to over $150,000 annually depending on experience and qualifications. These roles often require security clearances and specialized technical skills in research and development.

What is a DARPA Program?

A DARPA Program refers to a research and development initiative managed by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), a branch of the U.S. Department of Defense. These programs are designed to create breakthrough technologies and capabilities for national security, often focusing on high-risk, high-reward innovations. DARPA Programs span a wide range of fields, such as artificial intelligence, robotics, cybersecurity, biotechnology, and advanced materials. Each program is typically led by a program manager and aims to transition successful technologies to military or commercial use. Participation often involves collaboration among universities, private companies, and government labs.

How hard is it to get a job at DARPA?

Getting a job at DARPA is highly competitive due to its specialized research focus and security requirements. Candidates typically need advanced degrees, relevant technical expertise, and security clearances, with the hiring process involving multiple interviews and background checks.

What is DARPA currently working on?

DARPA, the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, focuses on developing emerging technologies for national security. Currently, it is working on projects related to artificial intelligence, quantum computing, autonomous systems, and advanced materials to maintain technological superiority. These efforts often involve collaboration with industry and academia and require specialized security clearances.

What are some typical challenges faced when working on a DARPA program team?

Working on a DARPA program team often involves tackling highly ambitious technical goals with tight deadlines and evolving requirements. Team members must be adaptable, as projects may pivot based on research findings or shifting priorities. Collaboration is key, as teams are typically multidisciplinary and may include external partners from academia, industry, and government. Successfully managing these dynamics while maintaining innovation and compliance with security protocols is a common challenge.

What is the difference between Darpa Program vs Research Scientist?

AspectDarpa ProgramResearch Scientist
CredentialsTypically requires advanced degrees in science or engineering, often with security clearancesRequires at least a master's degree, often a Ph.D., in a relevant scientific or technical field
Work EnvironmentGovernment-funded projects, often in labs or specialized facilities, with a focus on innovation and defense applicationsAcademic, industrial, or government labs; conducting experiments, data analysis, and publishing research
Employer & IndustryU.S. Department of Defense, research agencies, and contractorsUniversities, research institutions, or corporate R&D departments

While Darpa Programs focus on funding and managing innovative defense research projects, Research Scientists conduct scientific investigations across various fields, often contributing to knowledge and technology development. Both roles require strong technical credentials, but Darpa Programs are more project and funding-oriented within the defense sector, whereas Research Scientists focus on scientific discovery and experimentation.

Can civilians work for DARPA?

Yes, civilians can work for DARPA, which employs scientists, engineers, and project managers in research and development roles. Applicants typically need relevant advanced degrees, security clearances, and specialized skills in technology or science fields. Positions are often posted on government job portals and require a competitive application process.
What are the most commonly searched types of Darpa Program jobs in California? The most popular types of Darpa Program jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Darpa Program jobs? Cities in California with the most Darpa Program job openings:
Research & Development Technical Program Manager

Research & Development Technical Program Manager

Silvus Technologies

Los Angeles, CA โ€ข On-site

$139K - $179K/yr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago


Job description

THE COMPANY
Silvus Technologies, a leading provider of advanced MANET and MIMO communications systems, is reshaping mesh network technology for mission-critical applications - on the ground, in the air and at sea. Its battle-proven StreamCaster family of MANET radios and proprietary MN-MIMO waveform provides the vital communications link for defense, law enforcement and public safety agencies around the world, and in the toughest operational environments.
With deep roots in DARPA research, Silvus Technologies develops world-class advanced communications technologies that are reshaping the tactical communications landscape. From pure line-of-sight to extreme non-line-of-sight, Silvus radios form a self-healing, self-forming mesh network, enabling secure and reliable connectivity, including video and high-bandwidth data.
Silvus Technologies is a wholly owned subsidiary of Motorola Solutions, Inc.
Would you like to join an incredibly talented group of people, doing very challenging work, with the prime directive of "Keeping Our Heroes Connected"?
THE OPPORTUNITY
Silvus Technologies, the global leader in advanced MIMO mesh networking solutions for defense, industrial, and public safety applications, is seeking an R&D Technical Program Manager reporting to the VIce President of Research and Development. The successful individual in this role will drive execution excellence across our next-generation products.
This is a foundational Technical Program Manager role, offering a unique opportunity to build and shape the program management discipline within Silvus' growing Engineering and R&D organizations. You'll partner closely with senior R&D and Engineering leadership, and all functional and product teams in order to define best practices, drive cross-functional execution, and deliver high-impact products to our customers.
You will be part of a passionate team redefining RF sensing, tactical communications, and electronic warfare in the most demanding environments, from battlefield networks and autonomous systems to public safety and industrial applications. You will work alongside world-class engineers solving real-world challenges, with opportunities to grow, innovate, and lead as our organization scales.
If you're ready to help shape the future of tactical communications and electronic warfare and establish the foundation of Silvus' Program Management organization, we'd love to meet you.
This position is based at Silvus Technologies' headquarters in the heart of vibrant West Los Angeles, CA, and is on a hybrid schedule, a minimum of 3 days onsite per week is expected. On-site days are Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.
The following is a list of at least some of the current essential job functions of the position. Management may assign or reassign duties and responsibilities at any time at its discretion.
ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Lead end-to-end program execution across the full engineering lifecycle, from concept and design through implementation, integration, validation, and productization.
  • Own program schedules, milestones, and deliverables, ensuring alignment across cross-functional teams including Systems, FPGA, Software, RF, Hardware, and QA.
  • Facilitate cross-team collaboration to identify and resolve technical or schedule blockers, driving timely and data-driven decisions.
  • Track risks, dependencies, and issues; develop mitigation strategies and communicate impacts proactively to leadership.
  • Drive engineering cadence and communication, including design reviews, design syncs, and status updates with internal and external stakeholders.
  • Maintain project documentation and dashboards (e.g., Confluence, JIRA) for clear visibility into goals, progress, and key metrics.
  • Prepare executive reports and presentations, communicating program status, milestones, and risk assessments to senior management.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical field plus a minimum 5 years of relevant program management and/or engineering experience in a technology-driven organization, or 3 years of relevant program management and/or engineering experience in a technology-driven organization with an advanced degree (MS or PhD) in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical field.
  • Proven experience managing complex hardware/software or wireless/networking programs in a fast-paced R&D or product development environment.
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen (due to requirements of U.S. government contracts).
  • All employment is contingent upon the successful clearance of a background check and drug test.

PREFERRED KNOWLEDGE SKILLS AND ABILITIES
  • Master's degree in EE, ECE, or a related field with 8+ years of relevant industry experience.
  • Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to manage multiple programs and shift priorities.
  • Exceptional communication and presentation abilities, with a track record of influencing across technical and non-technical teams.
  • Demonstrated success in hands-on product development, technical program management, or engineering leadership roles.
  • Technical fluency in one or more of the following areas: wireless systems design, RF engineering, networking, firmware/software integration, or test/validation.
  • Self-starter with a strong sense of ownership, capable of driving progress with minimal oversight.
  • Eligibility for U.S. Security Clearance.

WORKING CONDITIONS & PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
  • Office environment.
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to do the following:
  • Lift equipment up to 20 lbs. for the set-up of demonstrations and testing.
  • Walking/Moving in the labs.

COMPENSATION: $160,000 - $200,000/annually
The pay range is NOT a guarantee, is based on market research and peer data, and will vary depending on the candidate's experience and qualifications.
NOTE - As a US Federal Contractor, Silvus Technologies requires that ALL candidates being considered for employment for any position (regardless of level) MUST be a U.S. Person (permanent resident or citizen). Stricter U.S. Citizen ONLY requirements (needed for some Engineering or R&D roles) will be included in the Required Qualifications section of the posted position. This does NOT apply to international positions; only job postings for positions located in the US. All
Silvus is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, and we value diversity. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, religion or belief, ancestry, national origin, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital, civil union or domestic partnership status, physical or mental disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, political affiliation, or any other factor protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.
We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided with reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.
*Silvus does not accept unsolicited resumes from individual recruiters or third-party recruiting agencies in response to job postings. No fee will be paid to third parties who submit unsolicited candidates directly to Silvus Technologies.
COMPENSATION
The pay range is NOT a guarantee. It is based on market research and peer data, and will vary depending on the candidate's experience and qualifications.
CA Pay Range
$160,000-$200,000 USD
Consistent with Motorola Solutions values and applicable law, we provide the following information to promote pay transparency and equity. Pay within this range varies and depends on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. The actual offer will be based on the individual candidate.
NOTE - As a US Federal Contractor, Silvus Technologies requires that ALL candidates being considered for employment for any position (regardless of level) MUST be a U.S. Person (permanent resident or citizen). Stricter U.S. Citizen ONLY requirements (needed for some Engineering or R&D roles) will be included in the Required Qualifications section of the posted position. This does NOT apply to international positions; only job postings for positions located in the US.
Motorola Solutions is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status or any other legally-protected characteristic.
We are proud of our people-first and community-focused culture, empowering every Motorolan to be their most authentic self and to do their best work to deliver on the promise of a safer world. If you'd like to join our team but feel that you don't quite meet all of the preferred skills, we'd still love to hear why you think you'd be a great addition to our team.
We're committed to providing an inclusive and accessible recruiting experience for candidates with disabilities, or other physical or mental health conditions. To request an accommodation, please complete this Reasonable Accommodations Form so we can assist you.