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Darpa Program Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

General Atomics

Program Manager III

Boulder, CO · On-site

$112K - $205K/yr

... NRL, DARPA, and others. The candidate will be responsible for understanding the technical ... Manage all phases of the program(s) from conceptualization through completion, including ...

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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

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

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.

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 Jul 22, 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:
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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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $48,077 per year, or $23.1 per hour.
Program Manager III

Program Manager III

General Atomics

Boulder, CO • On-site

$112K - $205K/yr

Full-time

Posted yesterday

General Atomics rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 37 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

5th of 63 rated aerospace companies

Job description

Job Summary
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), an affiliate of General Atomics, is a world leader in proven, reliable remotely piloted aircraft and tactical reconnaissance radars, as well as advanced high-resolution surveillance systems.
This position will lead the development of new technologies through collaboration with Government Science and Technology labs such as AFRL, NRL, DARPA, and others. The candidate will be responsible for understanding the technical capability gaps of interest within the Department of War and collaborating with government stakeholders to plan, propose, and execute technology development efforts. Lead technical teams to achieve program technical, cost, and schedule objectives.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Manage all phases of the program(s) from conceptualization through completion, including acquisition, planning, and managing technical performance to ensure objectives are attained.
  • Act as the primary customer contact for program activities and lead program review sessions with customers to discuss cost, schedule, and technical performance.
  • Participate with engineering teams to establish design concepts, criteria, and engineering efforts for product research, development, testing, and integration.
  • Interact with internal and external representatives at various levels concerning resolution of technical and scheduling issues. Act as primary contact for program issues.
  • Influence, and coordinate the preparation of proposals, business plans, proposal work statements and specifications, operating budgets, and financial terms/conditions of contract(s). Influence contract acquisitions, negotiations and modifications.
  • Ensure technical leadership and excellence is maintained by participating in the planning, attraction, selection, retention, and development of the required management, professional, and technical talent.
  • Identify program issues and provide leadership in developing solutions such as re-allocation of resources or modifying contract specification.
  • Contribute to the development of new business opportunities and expansion of existing business opportunities.
  • Manage the development of and ensure the security of proprietary technology, and maintain the strict confidentiality of sensitive information.
  • Other duties as assigned or required.
We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.
Job Qualifications
  • Typically requires a Bachelors, Masters or PhD in engineering, science or a related technical field as well as eleven or more years of progressively complex program administration experience. May substitute equivalent experience in lieu of education.
  • Demonstrates technical expertise and application of program management principles, concepts, and practice as well as program management and leadership skills including organizing, planning, scheduling, and coordinating workloads to meet established deadlines or milestones.
  • Must be able to develop solutions to problems that require coordination of technologies across program requirements.
  • Strong communication, leadership, presentation, and interpersonal skills are required to enable an effective interface with other departments, all levels of management, professional and support staff, customers, potential customers, and government representatives.
  • Customer focused, must be able to work on a self-initiated basis and in a team environment, and able to work extended hours and travel as required.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a DOD security clearance.

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About General Atomics

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

General Atomics (GA), and its affiliated companies, is one of the world's leading resources for high-technology systems development ranging from the nuclear fuel cycle to remotely piloted aircraft, airborne sensors, and advanced electric, electronic, wireless and laser technologies.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Diego, CA, US

Year founded

1955

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