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Development Program Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Stratolaunch

Development Program Manager

Mojave, CA · On-site

In this role, you will report to the Program Element / Development Program Manager and be responsible for execution of programs/projects that will integrate into the broader Talon-A Launch System.

Stratolaunch

Development Program Manager

Mojave, CA · On-site

In this role, you will report to the Program Element / Development Program Manager and be responsible for execution of programs/projects that will integrate into the broader Talon-A Launch System.

Bdx

BD Engineering Development Program

Brea, CA

BD Engineering Development Program Program Overview The BD Engineering Development Program (EDP) is designed to give new engineering graduates an opportunity to spend the first three years of their ...

Bdx

BD Engineering Development Program

San Diego, CA

BD Engineering Development Program Program Overview The BD Engineering Development Program (EDP) is designed to give new engineering graduates an opportunity to spend the first three years of their ...

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All JobsDevelopment Program JobsDevelopment Program Jobs in California

Development Program information

See California salary details

$31.6K

$118.5K

$197.4K

How much do development program jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for development program in California is $118,486.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,900.00 and $141,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a development program?

A Development Program is a structured initiative offered by organizations to help employees or participants build specific skills, gain experience, and advance their careers. These programs often include training sessions, mentorship, job rotations, and hands-on projects. Development Programs are commonly targeted at recent graduates or early-career professionals, aiming to prepare them for future leadership or specialized roles within the company. Participants benefit from exposure to different departments, on-the-job learning, and networking opportunities. Overall, Development Programs are designed to accelerate professional growth and help organizations develop a strong talent pipeline.

What types of projects or rotations can I expect to experience in a development program?

Development Programs often include structured rotations or project assignments across multiple departments or functions within the organization. As a participant, you might work on cross-functional teams, contribute to high-visibility projects, and gain hands-on experience in areas such as marketing, operations, finance, or product development. This structure helps you build a well-rounded skill set and understand the broader business, making it easier to identify your long-term career interests. Collaboration with mentors and peers is common, offering strong networking and learning opportunities within the company.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a development program, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Development Program, you need a strong academic background, analytical thinking, and a demonstrated interest in the field or industry. Familiarity with project management tools, data analysis software, or relevant certifications such as PMP or Lean Six Sigma is often valuable. Strong communication, adaptability, and teamwork skills help you excel in rotational assignments and dynamic environments. These capabilities ensure you effectively learn, contribute, and progress within the organization's leadership pipeline.

What is the difference between Development Program vs Software Engineer?

AspectDevelopment ProgramSoftware Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field; often includes training or internship componentsBachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field; may require coding certifications
Work EnvironmentStructured training environment, often with rotations across teamsProject-based, team-oriented software development setting
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in tech companies for onboarding new talentStandard role in software development companies and tech industries
Comparison Search IntentOften searched to understand entry pathways and training programsCompared for experience level and job responsibilities

The Development Program is typically a structured training or rotational initiative designed for early-career professionals, often including internships or onboarding tracks. Software Engineers are experienced professionals responsible for designing, coding, and maintaining software. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds, Development Programs focus on training and development, whereas Software Engineers focus on delivering software solutions.

What are the most commonly searched types of Development Program jobs in California?

The most popular types of Development Program jobs in California are:

Development Program jobs near you
Infographic showing various Development Program job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $118,486 per year, or $57 per hour.

Development Program Manager

Stratolaunch

Mojave, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

To help achieve these efforts, Stratolaunch is seeking a Development Program Manager. In this role, you will report to the Program Element / Development Program Manager and be responsible for execution of programs/projects that will integrate into the broader Talon-A Launch System.  You will interface with internal and external stakeholders on a regular basis to help develop requirements, manage schedules, and provide updates. You will be part of the hypersonic vehicle engineering team, collaborating with the manufacturing, engineering and operations. You will work with the Stratolaunch contracts team to ensure customer milestones are achieved.  You will work with the hypersonic vehicle program management team to ensure the customer needs are communicated and integrated with program planning tools and flight manifests.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Lead an integrated product team through the full program life cycle  
  • Develop budgets and schedules for managing assigned programs   
  • Responsible for cost, schedule, and customer satisfaction  
  • Make final decisions that affects cost and/or schedule constraints  
  • Implement program management tools, as needed, to facilitate program execution  
  • Contribute to developing statements of work, establishing program review gates, setting milestones with applicable entry and exit criteria, and evaluating subcontractor capabilities  
  • Work with the procurement team to ensure subcontractors are delivering products on deadline and within budget  
  • Evaluate risks and mitigation plans to determine adequacy and effectiveness  
  • Lead the creation of proposals   
  • Contribute to the company business plan with forecasts of schedule, budget, and personnel  
  • Regular and comprehensive communication to the Sr. Programs Manager  
  • Travel, as needed, to support the company and program   
  • Demonstrate honesty, responsibility, integrity, and fulfillment of commitments  

 

QUALIFICATIONS

  • To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

REQUIRED

  • Knowledge of, and experience with, one or more of these disciplines: aerospace program management, subcontracts and procurement, personnel management, aircraft systems, aircraft operations, launch vehicle integration, ground systems
  • Experience with technical aerospace leadership, including working with subcontractors
  • Experience with prototype manufacturing or low-rate production
  • Experience with risk management
  • Facilitation skills and ability to communicate technical challenges and guidance to varied audiences to gain support or resolve concerns
  • Strong analytical problem-solving skills and ability to implement sound critical thinking skills
  • Ability to work on their own initiative and prioritize tasking to fit within the business goals
  • Ability to obtain a security clearance at the TS level
  • Ability to quickly adapt to changing priorities
  • Ability to operate in a dynamic, fast-paced environment 

 

PREFERRED

  • Experience with government agencies (customers and regulatory)
  • Experience with air-launch programs
  • Launch vehicle and/or aircraft integration experience
  • Large transport category or military aircraft operations experience
  • Experience with classified programs and working in a classified environment
  • Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

  • Sr. Program Manager ($120,500-$158,000): Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Science (BS) or higher in a Business Management/Business Administration and/or Engineering discipline from an accredited institution and 5-10 years of relevant experience, OR equivalent combination of education and experience  
  • Staff Program Manager ($157,000-$206,000): Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Science (BS) or higher in a Business Management/Business Administration and/or Engineering discipline from an accredited institution and 10+ years of relevant experience, OR equivalent combination of education and experience  

 

Special remarks regarding work environment, if applicable

  • This position is located in Mojave, CA
  • Semi-frequent travel required to domestic locations

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