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Defense Industry Program Management Director Jobs

AECOM

Program Management Director

Dallas, TX · On-site

These include programs of critical national importance in defense, transportation, water, clean ... Represent the program and organization in industry forums, strengthening reputation and fostering ...

AECOM

Program Management Director

Dallas, TX · On-site

These include programs of critical national importance in defense, transportation, water, clean ... Represent the program and organization in industry forums, strengthening reputation and fostering ...

Randstad Digital

Program Management Director

Chicago, IL · On-site

$231K - $330K/yr

The Program Management Director will be the operational backbone of Sidley's Data & AI organization-a fast-moving, cross-functional team comprising AI Engineering, Data Engineering, UX Design ...

Defense Unicorns

Mission Director - Cyber

OR · On-site +1

$290K - $370K/yr

The Mission Director is a quota-carrying, full-lifecycle business owner responsible for identifying ... program management, acquisition, contracting, business development, or defense industry program ...

Sidley

Program Management Director

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$231K - $330K/yr

The Program Management Director will be the operational backbone of Sidley's Data & AI organization-a fast-moving, cross-functional team comprising AI Engineering, Data Engineering, UX Design ...

Defense Unicorns

Mission Director - Navy/Marine Corps

OR · On-site +1

$290K - $370K/yr

The Mission Director is a quota-carrying, full-lifecycle business owner responsible for identifying ... program management, acquisition, contracting, business development, or defense industry program ...

Jacobs Engineering Group Inc.

$200 - $250/hr

You will manage programs of varying complexity, applying industry best practices and Jacobs ... Support Program Directors in the delivery of complex infrastructure programs, ensuring alignment ...

Boutique Recruiting

Program Manager

Braintree, MA · On-site

$160K - $190K/yr

Defense industry program management experience * Minimum of 4 years of relevant experience, with a preference for candidates with up to 10 years * Proven experience managing programs with budgets of ...

Defense Unicorns

Mission Director - Space

$290K - $370K/yr

The Mission Director is a quota-carrying, full-lifecycle business owner responsible for identifying ... program management, acquisition, contracting, business development, or defense industry program ...

Safran S.A.

Director, Program Management

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$150 - $200/hr

The Program Management Director is responsible for the profit and loss (P&L) of the business unit ... Safran was ranked second in the Aerospace & Defense sector in TIME magazine's ""World's Best ...

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Defense Industry Program Management Director information

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$32K

$109.1K

$183K

How much do defense industry program management director jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for defense industry program management director in the United States is $109,055.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,000.00 and $116,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a defense industry program management director?

A Defense Industry Program Management Director oversees and coordinates large-scale defense projects, ensuring they meet cost, schedule, and performance goals. They lead cross-functional teams, manage budgets, and interface with government clients to align project objectives with national security needs. Their role also involves risk management, compliance with defense regulations, and ensuring deliverables are completed on time. Typically, these directors have extensive experience in both program management and the defense sector.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a defense industry program management director?

To thrive as a Defense Industry Program Management Director, you typically need extensive experience in program management, a solid understanding of defense acquisition processes, and a relevant degree such as engineering or business administration. Familiarity with government contracting regulations, Earned Value Management Systems (EVMS), and certifications like PMP or DAWIA are commonly required. Exceptional leadership, negotiation, and stakeholder communication skills set top performers apart in this role. These capabilities are crucial for ensuring complex defense programs are delivered on time, within budget, and in compliance with rigorous government standards.

What are some common challenges faced by a defense industry program management director, and how can they be effectively managed?

A Defense Industry Program Management Director often faces challenges such as coordinating complex, multi-phase projects with strict regulatory compliance and security requirements. Managing cross-functional teams, adapting to evolving client needs, and navigating government contracting processes are also frequent hurdles. Effective strategies include fostering strong communication across departments, staying up-to-date on regulatory changes, and implementing robust risk management practices to anticipate and address potential issues early. Building solid relationships with stakeholders and maintaining transparency are key to overcoming these challenges and ensuring project success.

What are popular job titles related to Defense Industry Program Management Director jobs?

For Defense Industry Program Management Director jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Defense Industry Program Management Director 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, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,055 per year, or $52.4 per hour.

Program Management Director

Tampa, FL

Paligen Technologies, Inc.
See more jobs at Paligen Technologies, Inc.external

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Paligen Technologies is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Program Management Director to lead and manage complex defense programs from inception through completion, including construction, commissioning, and manufacturing. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in program management within the defense industry, with a proven track record of delivering large-scale projects on time and within budget. This role requires exceptional leadership, strategic thinking, and the ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams and external stakeholders.
In this leadership role the individual will be responsible for overall program management and is accountable for program execution, customer satisfaction, and financial performance. This position will have a direct interface with customers, suppliers, and stakeholder leadership. The role includes responsibility for guiding Paligen employees in their work and influencing them to deliver their best.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Program Leadership: Lead the planning, execution, and delivery of complex defense programs. Develop and implement program strategies, objectives, and deliverables. Ensure alignment with customer requirements and company goals.
  • Stakeholder Management: Establish and maintain strong relationships with customers, partners, and key stakeholders. Act as the primary point of contact for program-related communications. Manage customer expectations and ensure high levels of customer satisfaction.
  • Project Management: Oversee all aspects of program management, including scope, schedule, budget, and risk management. Develop detailed project plans, milestones, and timelines. Monitor program progress and implement corrective actions as needed.
  • Team Leadership: Lead and mentor cross-functional teams, including engineering, operations, finance, and supply chain. Foster a collaborative and high-performance team culture. Provide guidance and support to team members to achieve program objectives.
  • Financial Management: Develop and manage program budgets and financial forecasts. Track program expenses and ensure financial targets are met. Identify and implement cost-saving measures without compromising quality.
  • Risk Management: Identify, assess, and mitigate program risks and issues. Develop and implement risk management plans and contingency strategies. Ensure compliance with all regulatory and contractual requirements.
  • Reporting and Documentation: Prepare and deliver regular program status reports to senior management and customers. Maintain comprehensive program documentation, including contracts, reports, and records. Ensure all program activities are well-documented and traceable.
  • Represents Paligen Technologies brand to external customers.
  • Provides executive level briefings to key internal and external stakeholders; presenting at both internal and external meetings, with government officials, REPKON USA Leadership, and various technical teams in Türkiye and the US.
  • Ability and drive to solve highly complex problems with significant business impact.
  • Direct the preparation of proposals, business plans, proposal work statements and specifications, operating budgets, and financial terms/conditions of contracts
  • Manage an integrated program team to include providing programmatic and technical leadership, coaching, mentoring, and succession planning
  • Cross-functional coordination with matrixed leadership to accomplish objectives
  • Ensure that all resources such as engineering, manpower, production, and facilities are available to support the program
  • Direct the work of employees assigned to the program from technical, manufacturing, and administrative areas
  • Develop and execute business roadmaps and strategies to grow the portfolio
  • Define program parameters and/or guiding internal research and development efforts
  • Ensure customer satisfaction, maintaining customer communication, and providing overall management of the customer relationship
  • Act with integrity, work collaboratively, meet commitments, and apply continual improvement methodologies in all work.
  • Other projects assigned and directed by Leadership.
Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor’s Degree with a minimum of 15 years of relevant experience
  • Strong knowledge of defense industry regulations and requirements, including ITAR, DFARS, and FAR (Federal Acquisition Regulation).
  • Proven experience managing large, complex programs with budgets exceeding $300 million.
  • Experience working under Un-definitized Contract Actions and construction and commissioning of manufacturing facilities.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with internal stakeholders and customers.
  • Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to analyze complex data and make data-driven decisions.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft office suite: Ability to create project and milestone charts, and use data and create value added presentations to report updates, status reports, etc.
  • Proficiency in project management tools and software (ERP, Visio, Project etc.).
  • Program strategy and capture experience.
  • Strong organizational and interpersonal skills.
  • Excellent oral, written, negotiation, and presentation skills.
  • Experience with customer and stakeholder communication.
  • Must be authorized to work in the U.S.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Master’s degree preferred – MBA, Engineering, or related field
  • PMP or equivalent certification is highly desirable.
  • Experience building energetic or chemical factories.
  • Earned Value Management System experience
  • Experience leading cross functional teams and working across different business organizations and customer communities
Other Requirements:
  • Travel: ~50%, to support manufacturing sites, suppliers and customers.
  • Work Environment: Office work environment.
  • Background Investigation / Drug Screen / US Person: Required.

Paligen Technologies is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value the unique skills and capabilities that our team members bring to our mission. We make all hiring and employment decisions based solely on individual qualifications, merit, and business needs. We strictly prohibit discrimination, ensuring a fair and objective selection process for all applicants.

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