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Darpa Program Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Chief Engineer, Vehicle

Berthoud, CO ยท 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.

Chief Engineer, Vehicle

Fort Collins, CO ยท 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.

Chief Engineer, Vehicle

Berthoud, CO ยท 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.

Chief Engineer, Vehicle

Berthoud, CO ยท 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.

Chief Engineer, Vehicle

Longmont, CO ยท 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.

Contracts Manager

Denver, CO ยท On-site

$120K - $180K/yr

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 ...

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 ...

Darpa Program information

See Colorado salary details

$22.6K

$48.1K

$66.2K

How much do darpa program jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 2, 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 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 Colorado? The most popular types of Darpa Program jobs in Colorado are:
What are popular job titles related to Darpa Program jobs in Colorado? For Darpa Program jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles 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:
Senior Software Engineer with Security Clearance

Senior Software Engineer with Security Clearance

Grey Matters Defense Solutions, LLC

Centennial, CO โ€ข On-site

$190K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Grey Matters Defense Solutions specializes in software development and solutions, specialized
data analytics algorithms, and innovative remote sensing technologies and operations, with senior-
level personnel formerly from DIA, NRO, DARPA, and the US Armed Forces. Grey Matters Defense
Solutions differentiates itself by combining its subject matter experts, analysts, software engineers,
and its data scientists to create unique artificial intelligence algorithms and various applications. Grey Matters Defense Solutions is seeking a talented and dedicated, Senior Software Engineer About the job: โ€ข Solve real world problems relevant to the Intel Community (IC) and Department of Defense (DoD)
using a combination of FOSS/GOTS/COTS software and hardware.
โ€ข Contribute to all aspects of project software development lifecycle from research, prototyping
solutions to assess feasibility, integration with external software systems, development, and
product deployment. Key About you: โ€ข 8+ years experience in Java o Gradle o Jenkins o Node/NPM โ€ข Domain/Systems related o JWICS o Databahn o S2P o Clairvoyant o TAK o TLS/SSL Secure System Comms โ€ข Preferred Skills o CFMA o GIMS , o Clairvoyant o Node o SIPR access Salary Range: 130,000 - $190,000 Grey Matters Defense Solutions offer a comprehensive benefits package including medical,
dental, vision, life insurance, short-term and long-term disability. Additional Benefits: โ€ข SEP IRA 25% of base salary โ€ข IBA 25% used to pay medical insurance premiums + funded time off โ€ข Employee assistance program โ€ข Employee discount โ€ข Flexible spending account โ€ข Health savings account โ€ข Referral program Grey Matters Defense Solutionsโ€™ most valuable assets are the more than 60 employees, consisting
of data scientists, custom software developers, and analysts/subject matter experts, with senior-
level personnel formerly from DIA, NRO, NSA and the US Armed Forces. Our employees have a
depth of analytical knowledge which provides them with deep understanding of managing and
delivering products within government systems. Grey Matters Defense Solutions provides
transformational leadership building aware-winning teams and products. Visit us at Grey Matters Defense Solutions
https://www.linkedin.com/company/grey-matters-defense-solutions/ โ€œKnow Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegalโ€
Questions contact: โ€ข All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. โ€ข Grey Matters Defense Solutions, LLC participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States. โ€ข Grey Matters Defense Solutions, LLC complies with the Colorado Artificial Intelligence Act (CAIA) and maintains policies, controls, and oversight practices designed to mitigate algorithmic discrimination, promote transparency, and ensure responsible use of AI
systems in accordance with Colorado law.