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Darpa Program Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

STR

Lead Autonomy Software Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$174K - $225K/yr

Our main customer focus is on Air Force, Navy, and DARPA research programs. The Role: As an Autonomy Software Engineer in the SAAM group, you will work as a part of high-performing teams focused on ...

General Atomics

AI Battle Management Lead

Poway, CA · On-site

Serve as principal investigator and program lead for advanced R&D efforts in AI/ML for battle management. * Interface directly with senior government customers, DARPA, AFRL, and DIU to translate ...

Arenatechnologies

Systems Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$110K - $170K/yr

... DARPA, international clients including the Canadian Navy and Australian Defence Force. Our primary ... The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility ...

Systems Planning and Analysis

Systems Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$110K - $170K/yr

... DARPA, international clients including the Canadian Navy and Australian Defence Force. Our primary ... The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility ...

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All JobsDarpa Program JobsDarpa Program Jobs in California

Darpa Program information

See California salary details

$21.2K

$45.1K

$62.2K

How much do darpa program jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 11, 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 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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a DARPA program manager?

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 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.

Is it possible to work at DARPA?

DARPA offers employment opportunities for individuals with backgrounds in science, engineering, and technology, often requiring security clearances and advanced degrees. Positions typically involve research and development in cutting-edge fields, and applicants should have relevant skills and experience. Job openings are posted on government and defense job portals, and candidates undergo rigorous screening processes.

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 are popular job titles related to Darpa Program jobs in California?

For Darpa Program jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Darpa Program jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for 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:

Darpa Program jobs near you
Infographic showing various Darpa Program job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $45,123 per year, or $21.7 per hour.

Vice President, Counter Laser & Directed Energy

El Segundo, CA • On-site

Valid8 Financial, Inc.
Finance and Insurance • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Valid8 Financial, Inc.external

$200K - $250K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 12 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Lead and oversee the optical materials research and development program, including setting technical strategy and ensuring successful execution of government contracts and internal initiatives.

  • Manage the development of optical products from concept through qualification and production, ensuring technical milestones, budgets, and deliverables are met.

  • Build, mentor, and scale a team of optical scientists, engineers, and technicians, and identify new business opportunities related to optical products and government solicitations.

Job description

VICE PRESIDENT, Counter Laser & Directed Energy

Cambium is a global company building the advanced materials base for reindustrialization — from AI-driven molecular design to agile domestic manufacturing. Defense, aerospace, and other high-performance applications demand materials that are stronger, lighter, and more resilient, delivered at unprecedented speed and scale. Our team of world-class scientists and engineers was assembled specifically to take on those challenges. Whether enabling hypersonic flight or protecting critical systems, our solutions solve mission-critical problems and push the limits of what's possible. Come join us and revolutionize advanced materials for defense, aerospace, and beyond.

THE ROLE

Cambium is seeking a Vice President, Counter Laser & Directed Energy, to lead our dual-use optical materials technology and product development efforts in support of critical aviation, government, and defense programs. This role owns the full lifecycle of our optics business — from fundamental research into next-generation optical materials to the design, engineering, and delivery of fielded optical products. You will build and lead a team of scientists and engineers, and oversee relationships with government sponsors, prime contractors, and commercial customers, and set the technical and strategic direction for one of Cambium's core capability areas. This is a senior leadership position for someone who can operate equally well in the lab, the program review, and the boardroom.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Lead and grow Cambium's optical materials research and development program, setting technical strategy across government-funded contracts and internal R&D initiatives that support LEP and counter-directed energy product commercialization.
  • Resource and ensure successful execution of government contracts and programs involving optical materials, ensuring technical milestones, budgets, and deliverables are met.
  • Oversee the development of optical products from concept through qualification and production.
  • Prioritize and resource all Cambium optics-related efforts.
  • Provide the resourcing and strategic guidance to support the LEP Program Manager-led commercial push for current and future form factors into government and non-government procurement channels to grow LEP revenues.
  • Build, mentor, and scale a high-performing team of optical scientists, engineers, and technicians.
  • Identify and pursue new business opportunities, including proposal development and capture strategy for optics-related product and government solicitations.
  • Partner with executive leadership to align optics strategy with Cambium's broader advanced materials roadmap.
KEY REQUIREMENTS
  • Commercially relevant technical expertise in Photonics, Laser Eye Protection (LEP), and Counter-Directed Energy (DE), specifically deep technical expertise in optical materials, coatings, or optical system design and fabrication.
  • 5+ years of experience leading the development and commercial transition of novel optical products from ideation, R&D, and regulatory compliance through to manufacturing scale-up, high-throughput manufacturing, and commercial sales to both military and non-military customers.
  • Demonstrated success building coordinated, collaborative, and cohesive teamwork between commercial and technical teams
  • 3+ years managing government contracts (e.g., DoD, DARPA, or other agency-funded programs).
  • Demonstrated ability to communicate clearly, concisely, and effectively not just with your team but across the organization, as well as with customers, investors, and other stakeholders.
  • Master's or PhD degree strongly preferred.
  • U.S. citizenship required, with the ability to obtain and maintain a government security clearance.
SALARY/HOURLY: $200,000 – $250,000 annually BENEFITS: Cambium offers a highly competitive compensation and benefits plan. This includes excellent medical/dental/vision benefits, and a matching 401(k) plan, professional development reimbursement, and an opportunity for equity for most full-time positions.
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