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$15K

$241.3K

$387K

How much do darpa salary jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for darpa salary in the United States is $241,295.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $200,000.00 and $300,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

High-paying jobs that can reach or exceed $500,000 annually include executive roles such as CEOs, CFOs, and other C-suite positions, as well as specialized professions like top-tier surgeons, investment bankers, and successful entrepreneurs. These roles typically require extensive experience, advanced skills, and often involve leadership, high responsibility, or performance-based compensation structures.

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 the difference between Darpa Salary vs Data Analyst?

AspectDarpa SalaryData Analyst
Required CredentialsSecurity clearance, advanced degrees in STEMBachelor's degree in data science, statistics, or related field
Work EnvironmentGovernment research labs, defense projectsCorporate, consulting, or government agencies
Employer & IndustryDefense, research, government agenciesBusiness, finance, healthcare, tech

Darpa salaries typically involve government security clearances and advanced STEM degrees, working in defense research environments. Data Analysts focus on interpreting data across various industries with relevant degrees. Salary differences depend on experience, location, and security requirements, but Darpa roles often offer higher compensation due to security and specialized skills.

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 typically need an advanced degree in a STEM field, significant research experience, and a strong record of innovation or technical achievement. Familiarity with government contracting, program management tools, and proposal evaluation systems is highly valuable. Exceptional communication, strategic thinking, and leadership skills help drive ambitious research agendas and collaborate with diverse stakeholders. These skills are crucial for successfully managing high-impact, high-risk projects that advance national security and technological innovation.

What are some unique challenges professionals may face when working on DARPA-funded projects?

Professionals working on DARPA-funded projects often encounter challenges such as rapidly shifting project goals, high expectations for innovation, and stringent confidentiality requirements. The fast-paced nature of DARPA initiatives means team members must be adaptable and comfortable with ambiguity. Collaboration with interdisciplinary teams is common, requiring strong communication skills and the ability to integrate diverse perspectives. These projects can be highly rewarding for those who enjoy tackling complex problems and contributing to cutting-edge advancements.

What is a typical salary at DARPA?

Salaries at DARPA (Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency) vary widely based on the specific position, level of experience, and education. For example, research scientists and program managers can expect to earn between $100,000 and $170,000 per year, while administrative and support roles may have lower salaries. Compensation also includes federal employee benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid leave. Salaries are typically based on the federal General Schedule (GS) pay scale, with some specialized roles falling under the Senior Executive Service (SES) or other federal pay systems.

Is DARPA a good place to work?

DARPA offers challenging research roles focused on advanced technology development, often requiring security clearances and specialized skills. Employees typically work in a collaborative environment with opportunities for innovation, but the work can be demanding and classified projects may limit public information about job conditions.

What profession makes $400,000 a year?

High-level roles such as senior defense contractors, senior engineers, or specialized scientists working for organizations like DARPA can earn salaries around $400,000 annually. These positions typically require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and security clearances, often involving leadership, research, or technical expertise in defense or technology sectors.
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Darpa Salary jobs near you
Infographic showing various Darpa Salary job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 73% In-person, 18% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $241,295 per year, or $116 per hour.
DARPA SETA, Secret Clearance

DARPA SETA, Secret Clearance

Blue Sky Innovators

Arlington, VA • On-site

$150K - $250K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Overview:

We are seeking dynamic and mission-driven professionals to join our team as SETA Support Specialists for DARPA programs. This role offers a unique opportunity to work at the forefront of innovation, supporting cutting-edge research and development initiatives that shape national security and technological advancement.

As a SETA, you will provide critical support to DARPA Program Managers (PMs) across a range of technical and operational domains. This position is ideal for individuals with diverse backgrounds-including engineering, cybersecurity, program management, finance, and administrative support-who thrive in fast-paced, intellectually rigorous environments.

Key Responsibilities may include:

  • Provide day-to-day support to DARPA PMs in planning, executing, and managing advanced R&D programs
  • Assist in the development and review of technical proposals, white papers, and program documentation
  • Coordinate and facilitate program meetings, briefings, and technical interchange events
  • Support front office operations, including correspondence, and stakeholder engagement
  • Track program budgets, funding allocations, and contract deliverables
  • Conduct market research and technology assessments to inform program strategy
  • Liaise with performers, government stakeholders, and contracting officers
  • Prepare reports, presentations, and decision-support materials for senior leadership
  • Ensure compliance with DARPA policies, security protocols, and acquisition regulations

Qualifications:

Required:

  • Experience supporting DARPA
  • Secret Security Clearance (TS/SCI preferred)
  • Bachelor's degree
  • Strong organizational, communication, and analytical skills
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a high-tempo environment

Preferred:

  • Familiarity with DoD acquisition processes, BAA lifecycle, and program execution

Salary range for the position is $150,000 - $250,000 per year. Specific compensation will be determined by several factors including experience, education, skills, and knowledge. We also offer medical/dental/vision benefits and 401k contribution.

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