ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Darpa Program Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Ursa Major

Chief Engineer, Vehicle

Berthoud, CO

$175K - $230K/yr

Background working with DoD, DARPA, or classified programs. * Familiarity with model-based systems engineering (MBSE) tools. * Experience scaling a vehicle program from prototype to production.

Ursa Major

Chief Engineer, Vehicle

Berthoud, CO

$175K - $230K/yr

Background working with DoD, DARPA, or classified programs. * Familiarity with model-based systems engineering (MBSE) tools. * Experience scaling a vehicle program from prototype to production.

Ursa Major

Chief Engineer, Vehicle

Berthoud, CO · On-site

$175K - $230K/yr

Background working with DoD, DARPA, or classified programs. * Familiarity with model-based systems engineering (MBSE) tools. * Experience scaling a vehicle program from prototype to production.

Ursa Major

Chief Engineer, Vehicle

Longmont, CO

$175K - $230K/yr

Background working with DoD, DARPA, or classified programs. * Familiarity with model-based systems engineering (MBSE) tools. * Experience scaling a vehicle program from prototype to production.

Ursa Major

Chief Engineer, Vehicle

Fort Collins, CO

$175K - $230K/yr

Background working with DoD, DARPA, or classified programs. * Familiarity with model-based systems engineering (MBSE) tools. * Experience scaling a vehicle program from prototype to production.

EnduroSat

Contracts Manager

Denver, CO · On-site

Collaborate with Legal, finance, business units and program management teams to track contract ... Deep familiarity with FAR/DFARS, agency-specific procurement frameworks (NASA, DoD, AFRL, DARPA ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

All JobsDarpa Program JobsDarpa Program Jobs in Colorado

Darpa Program information

See Colorado salary details

$22.6K

$48.1K

$66.2K

How much do darpa program jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for darpa program in Colorado is $48,077.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,400.00 and $49,900.00 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 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, often requiring advanced degrees, specialized skills in science or engineering, and security clearances. Candidates typically undergo a rigorous selection process that includes technical assessments and background checks. Strong research experience and a track record of innovation can improve chances of hiring.

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.

Can anyone work for DARPA?

DARPA (Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency) employs highly skilled professionals in science, engineering, and technology fields, often requiring security clearances and advanced degrees. While there are no specific restrictions on who can apply, candidates typically need relevant experience, a strong educational background, and the ability to obtain necessary security clearances. Job opportunities are competitive and often involve working on cutting-edge research projects in a secure environment.

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.

How much does DARPA pay?

DARPA program salaries vary depending on the role, experience, and security clearance level. Generally, salaries for government research positions range from around $70,000 to over $150,000 annually, with higher pay for senior roles and specialized skills. Compensation may also include benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.
What are the most commonly searched types of Darpa Program jobs in Colorado? The most popular types of Darpa Program jobs in Colorado are:
What job categories do people searching Darpa Program jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Darpa Program jobs in Colorado are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Darpa Program jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Darpa Program job openings:
Darpa Program jobs near you
Infographic showing various Darpa Program job openings in Colorado as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, and 28% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $48,077 per year, or $23.1 per hour.

Director of Strategy & Business Developmen

Executive Recruiting Group

Denver, CO

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

We are seeking a Director of Strategy & Business Development to lead organizational growth, capture government and defense funding, and align technical capabilities with market opportunities. You will develop strategic partnerships, pursue SBIRR/STTR, OTA, DOD contracts, and manage relationships across the aerospace ecosystem.

Duties:

  • Develop and execute business strategy to grow revenue and secure government funding.
  • Identify, evaluate, and pursue funding opportunities: SBIR, STTR, OTA, DPA title III, CRADAs,DARPA/Air Force/ONR/Space Force solicitations
  • Lead proposal development: win themes, storyboards, capture plans, proposal writing, pricing strategy
  • Build strategic relationships with government program offices, primes, and downstream partners
  • Serve as the organization's interface to government stakeholders, industry partners, and advisory councils
  • Track funding landscapes, policy shifts, and defense modernization priorities
  • Support investor relations and executive leadership with market insights, competitor analysis, and strategic recommendations
  • Coordinate with engineering leads to translate technical capabilities into compelling proposals

Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree in Business,Engineering, Public Policy, or related field
  • 7+ years of experience in business development, capture management, or strategic planning in defense/aerospace
  • Detailed experience with U.S. government funding mechanisms(SBIR, STTR, OTA, FAR/DFARS, etc.)
  • Proven track record capturing government contracts/grants and winning proposals
  • String written and verbal communication skills
  • Ability to rapidly translate complex technical concepts into proposal narratives and strategic value propositions

Preferred Requirements:

  • Experience within with DoD program offices, primes, or government labs
  • Familiarity with ITAR/Export Compliance and security classification guides
  • MBA or advanced degree in a relevant area

Apply