ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Darpa Program Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Amentum

DARPA Program Scheduler & Analyst

Arlington, VA · On-site

A motivated and detail-oriented Program Scheduler & Analyst is sought to support a program. The successful candidate will be responsible for developing and maintaining the Integrated Master Schedule ...

ECS

Functional Expert II

Arlington, VA · On-site

Responsibilities : • support a DARPA program manager by participating in or leading all activities in project management, technical and programmatic risk analysis, program-funded test coordination ...

ECS

Senior Scientist

Arlington, VA · On-site

$105K - $144K/yr

Responsibilities : • support a DARPA program manager by participating in or leading all activities in project management, technical and programmatic risk analysis, program-funded test coordination ...

ECS

Mid-Scientist with Security Clearance

Arlington, VA · On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

The successful candidate will support a DARPA program manager by participating in or leading all activities in project management, technical and programmatic risk analysis, program-funded test ...

ECS

Technical SETA - MTO

Arlington, VA · On-site

$148K - $192K/yr

The successful candidate will support a DARPA program manager by participating in or leading all activities in project management, technical and programmatic risk analysis, program-funded test ...

ECS

Senior Science Advisor

Arlington, VA · On-site

$180K - $220K/yr

The successful candidate will support a DARPA program manager by participating in or leading all activities in project management, technical and programmatic risk analysis, program-funded test ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsDarpa Program JobsDarpa Program Jobs in Washington, DC

Darpa Program information

See Washington, DC salary details

$24.4K

$51.8K

$71.4K

How much do darpa program jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for darpa program in Washington, DC is $51,784.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,500.00 and $53,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

How do you get hired at DARPA?

To get hired at DARPA, candidates typically need a strong background in science, engineering, or technology, along with relevant research experience. The application process involves submitting a resume through official government channels and often requires security clearances and interviews. Demonstrating expertise in innovative research and collaboration skills can improve chances of selection.
What are the most commonly searched types of Darpa Program jobs in Washington, DC? The most popular types of Darpa Program jobs in Washington, DC are:
What are popular job titles related to Darpa Program jobs in Washington, DC? For Darpa Program jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Darpa Program jobs in Washington, DC look for? The top searched job categories for Darpa Program jobs in Washington, DC are:
Darpa Program jobs near you
Infographic showing various Darpa Program job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,784 per year, or $24.9 per hour.

Part-Time Physics Technical SETA-DARPA, TS/SCI

Blue Sky Innovators

Arlington, VA • On-site

$70 - $120/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

LOE required is 0.5 FTE.

Description:

Candidate sought to provide on-site technical program management and execution support to PM. The successful candidate will support the DARPA program manager by leading the ongoing demonstration project and managing/coordinating transition activities. This includes overseeing contract execution, coordinating and collaborating with Govt mission partners, and communicating status/results by preparing and delivering program briefings.

Required capabilities and characteristics:

  • 5+ years of relevant experience
  • Bachelor's degree in a relevant technical field
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite
  • Strong communication skills - both written (including PowerPoint) and oral
  • Strong organization skills with the ability to multi-task and respond to urgent requests
  • Work on-site at DARPA HQ (Arlington, VA) daily
  • Travel to support program up to 15% duty factor

Preferred capabilities and characteristics:

  • Mission focus with enthusiasm for daily work
  • Clear, concise, direct communication
  • Interest in continuous learning and technical exploration
  • Experience working at the Top Secret, SCI, and SAP levels
  • Experience with DARPA project management
  • Experience leading small teams on technical projects
  • Experience with undersea testing
  • Interest/understanding of modern experimental and theoretical physics
  • Understanding of STRATCOM mission and current capabilities

Responsibilities:

  • Manage execution of ongoing demonstration activities
  • Organize and coordinate activities of a dispersed multidisciplinary team
  • Develop technical documentation and briefs to communicate program status
  • Coordinate stakeholder engagement across multiple national agencies and services
  • Develop transition plans and relationships

Clearance: Active Top-Secret clearance, with Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) eligibility, is required

Hourly range for the position is $70-$120/hr. Specific compensation will be determined by several factors including experience, education, skills, and knowledge.

Blue Sky Innovators, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law. If you are a qualified job seeker with a disability or a disabled veteran, you have the right to request an accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to use or access http://www.blueskyinnovators.com as a result of your disability. To request an accommodation, please email us at careers@blueskyinnovators.com and provide your name and contact information. Please note: this is only for job seekers with disabilities requesting an accommodation.