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Darpa Program Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ECS

Functional Expert II

Arlington, VA · On-site

$150K - $180K/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 ...

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 ...

Pae

DARPA Program Scheduler & Analyst

Arlington, VA

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 ...

CELESTAR

Program Manager - DARPA PSS

Arlington, VA · On-site

$180K - $240K/yr

Celestar, a B&A Company, is seeking a Program Manager to support the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) Program Security Services (PSS) task order. If interested and meet the ...

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 ...

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Darpa Program information

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$45.7K

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How much do darpa program jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for darpa program in the United States is $45,721.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,500.00 and $47,500.00 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.
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Darpa Program jobs near you
Infographic showing various Darpa Program job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,721 per year, or $22 per hour.

Program Security Representative - Executive Support (DARPA PSS)

CELESTAR

Arlington, VA • On-site

$150K - $205K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Celestar, a B&A Company, is seeking a Program Security Representative - Executive Support to support the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) Program Security Services (PSS) task order. If interested and meet the qualifications, we encourage you to apply for this rewarding and impactful opportunity.
ANTICIPATED AWARD: February/March 2027
ANTICIPATED START: March 2027
PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE: 1 Base Year + 4 Option Years
LOCATION: Arlington, Virginia
Salary Range: $150,000-$205,000 annually
Actual compensation will be based on experience, qualifications, certifications, security clearance, and contract funding. This position is contingent upon contract award.
CLEARANCE REQUIREMENT: Active TS/SCI Clearance, adjudicated within the past five (5) years
About Us:
Celestar, a B&A Company, offers highly competitive salaries and benefits. Our comprehensive benefits package includes company-paid employee and family dental insurance, employee health insurance, life insurance, and disability coverage. Additionally, we provide a 401(k)-retirement plan with company matching, paid holidays, and personal time off.
Responsibilities:
• Provide specialized program security support to the DARPA Director, Deputy Director, Chief of Staff, Service Liaison Officers, and other senior staff.
• Communicate across senior levels of DoD, the Intelligence Community, Executive Branch, and Legislative Branch in support of classified activities.
• Plan, organize, and present classified briefings for senior DARPA leadership.
• Provide day-to-day classified logistics and information security support.
• Plan classified logistics for offsite senior-leader engagements.
• Coordinate access and attendance for classified CONUS and OCONUS meetings, demonstrations, exercises, and conferences.
• Provide security and program protection advice to the DARPA Director and Deputy Director.
• Research and assemble background/reference materials for Agency leadership.
• Maintain personnel security accesses and conduct indoctrinations and debriefings.
• Manage SAPFs and SCIFs supporting the DARPA Director and Deputy Director.
• Conduct secure data transfers across networks of varying classification levels.
• Maintain accountability for classified documents and media.
• Support and represent the DARPA SAPCO in interactions with DoD SAP organizations.
Required Qualifications and Skills (Must Be Reflected on Your Resume):
• A Bachelor's degree with 5 years of related DoD or IC program security experience -OR- an Associate's degree with 8 years of related experience.
• At least 5 years of demonstrated experience directly supporting senior DoD or IC leaders at the General/Flag Officer or Senior Executive Service (SES) level.
• Demonstrated understanding of senior-level protocol and classified operations.
• Strong program security, information security, logistics, briefing, coordination, and executive communication capabilities.
• Headquarters-level experience within a DoD agency, highly desired.
Come on board with a company that Values its Employees!
Celestar Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The Celestar Corporation prohibits discrimination, harassment, and retaliation in employment based on race; color; religion; genetic information; national origin; sex (including same-sex); sexual orientation; gender identity; pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions; age; disability or handicap; citizenship status; marital status; service member/protected veteran status; or any other category protected by federal, state, or local law.

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