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Darpa Program Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

ECS

Technical SETA - STO

Arlington, VA · On-site

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

Subject Matter Expert III

Arlington, VA · On-site

$180K - $210K/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 - STO

Arlington, VA · On-site

$100K - $230K/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

Scientist/Engineer II

Arlington, VA · On-site

$120K - $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 ...

Systems Planning and Analysis

Technical SETA

Arlington, VA · On-site

$148K - $192K/yr

The candidate will utilize technical skills to understand the complex problems associated with DARPA programs, while simultaneously providing the necessary management support to execute the day-to ...

Systems Planning and Analysis

Technical SETA

Arlington, VA · On-site

$148K - $192K/yr

The candidate will utilize technical skills to understand the complex problems associated with DARPA programs, while simultaneously providing the necessary management support to execute the day-to ...

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All JobsDarpa Program Jobs

Darpa Program information

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$21.5K

$45.7K

$63K

How much do darpa program jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 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 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.
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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, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% 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.

Senior Science Advisor

ECS

Arlington, VA • On-site

$180K - $220K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Everforth ECS is seeking a Senior Science Advisor to work in our Arlington, Virginia office.
Please Note: This position is contingent upon contract award.
Salary Range: $180,000 - $220,000
Everforth ECS Federal is seeking a Senior Science Advisorcandidate to provide onsite support to DARPA's Microsystems Technology Office (MTO). MTO plays a key role in breakthroughs and innovative technologies, which requires a superior level of technical, analytical, financial, and general administrative support encompassing a broad range of expertise in technologies and disciplines for existing and future DARPA MTO efforts.
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 coordination, and coordination with members of the Department of Defense for transition. The candidate will also be responsible for coordinating meetings, assessing performer technical progress, projecting performer outcomes, and ensuring that project management best practices are followed by performers, independent verification and validation (IV&V) entities funded by DARPA, and within DARPA itself. Duties range from developing point papers, slide decks, and other materials that convey the need, status, and importance of a program to researching unique problem set ideas to aid in National Security priorities.
  • Master's Degree
  • Active DOD Secret clearance of the ability to obtain one
  • 18+ years of experience
  • Uniquely qualifying research, credentials, or education; universally recognized as the expert/authority in a highly specified scientific area.
  • Mature judgement required to advise senior government personnel on complex scientific and technical matters with strategic implications.
  • Demonstrated experience in executive-level scientific advisory roles with ability to translate complex scientific concepts into strategic recommendations for senior leadership.
  • Individual will have successfully demonstrated the ability to independently conduct the most sophisticated analysis to offer strategic recommendations, solutions, and alternatives to resolve complex R&D issues, concerns, problems, or methods in areas related to DARPA Technical Offices.
  • Demonstrated experience providing scientific counsel at the highest levels of government and research organizations.
  • Experience with basic and applied research and prior experience as a DARPA Program Manager or senior SETA contractor is highly desirable.
  • Extensive published articles in Field of Expertise with demonstrated international recognition and thought leadership within the scientific community.
  • Strong oral and written communication skills required to advise senior government personnel and present complex scientific concepts to diverse audiences.

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