1

Government Program Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Senior Program Manager

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$136K - $136K/yr

This role spans the full lifecycle of government work, from proposal development and capture support to program management and contract execution. As a Senior Program Manager, you will lead the ...

Senior Program Manager

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$165K - $180K/yr

This role spans the full lifecycle of government work, from proposal development and capture support to program management and contract execution. As a Senior Program Manager, you will lead the ...

This role requires extensive expertise in government weapon systems acquisition, program management, strategic planning, and program integration to support the U.S. Space Force (USSF) Space Systems ...

Program Manager

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$200K - $240K/yr

This role requires extensive expertise in government weapon systems acquisition, program management, strategic planning, and program integration to support the U.S. Space Force (USSF) Space Systems ...

Support the government program manager in managing commitments, obligations, and expenditures of funds * Perform earned value management and schedule analysis for program office defense contracts

Program Manager WHO WE ARE: STAHL Companies provides the Program Management for its Channel of ... S. government. We do this by aligning the voice of our small business members with advocacy for ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Government Program Manager information

See California salary details

$52.3K

$115.5K

How much do government program manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for government program manager in California is $110,779.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $114,500.00 and $115,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can I make 100k as a project manager?

Government program managers can earn $100,000 or more annually, especially with experience, certifications, and managing large or complex projects. Salaries vary by location, agency, and scope of responsibility, with senior roles and specialized skills often commanding higher pay.

What GS level is a program manager?

A government program manager's General Schedule (GS) level varies depending on experience, responsibilities, and agency requirements. Typically, program managers are classified at GS-13 to GS-15 levels, with senior roles often at GS-14 or GS-15, which require specialized skills, leadership abilities, and relevant certifications. Advancement depends on performance, education, and tenure within the federal government.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Government Program Manager position, and why are they important?

A Government Program Manager should possess strong project management skills, budgeting expertise, and a thorough understanding of government regulations, often supported by a relevant degree and PMP or similar certification. Experience with tools like Microsoft Project, government financial systems, and procurement platforms is highly beneficial. Outstanding soft skills such as problem-solving, adaptability, and communication help build consensus among diverse stakeholders and navigate complex bureaucratic environments. These abilities are crucial for successfully managing multi-faceted government projects while ensuring adherence to deadlines, budgets, and compliance requirements.

What do government program managers do?

Government program managers oversee the planning, implementation, and evaluation of government initiatives and projects. They coordinate between agencies, manage budgets, ensure compliance with regulations, and monitor progress to meet program goals, often using project management tools and requiring strong organizational skills.

How much do DOD program managers make?

DOD program managers typically earn between $80,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and security clearance level. Senior or specialized managers with certifications like PMP may earn higher salaries, often exceeding $150,000. Compensation also includes benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.

What are some common challenges faced by Government Program Managers and how do they address them?

Government Program Managers often encounter challenges such as evolving policy requirements, tight budgets, and coordinating efforts between multiple agencies or departments. To address these issues, they rely on robust planning, transparent communication, and effective stakeholder engagement to anticipate changes and mitigate risks. They also stay current with regulatory updates and actively seek ways to streamline processes. Being proactive and adaptable helps them ensure projects remain on track and compliant, even in a dynamic government environment.

What is a Government Program Manager job?

A Government Program Manager oversees and coordinates government-funded programs, ensuring they meet objectives, stay within budget, and comply with regulations. They manage project timelines, lead teams, and collaborate with stakeholders to achieve program goals. Responsibilities include strategic planning, risk management, and performance evaluation. Strong leadership, communication, and analytical skills are essential for success in this role.

What are the most commonly searched types of Government Program jobs in California? The most popular types of Government Program jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Government Program Manager jobs in California? For Government Program Manager jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Government Program Manager jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Government Program Manager jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Government Program Manager jobs? Cities in California with the most Government Program Manager job openings:
Program Manager - GSS Government Aviation

Program Manager - GSS Government Aviation

Viasat, Inc.

Carlsbad, CA

$148K - $222K/yr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Viasat rating

4.2

Company rating: 4.2 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

77th of 80 rated telecommunications companies


Job description

About us

One team. Global challenges. Infinite opportunities. At Viasat, we’re on a mission to deliver connections with the capacity to change the world. For more than 35 years, Viasat has helped shape how consumers, businesses, governments and militaries around the globe communicate. We’re looking for people who think big, act fearlessly, and create an inclusive environment that drives positive impact to join our team.


What you'll do

You're responsible for the successful execution of programs from conception through completion, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives, and serve as the point of contact for stakeholders and internal cross-functional teams, driving teamwork and delivering outstanding results. You will work closely with Business Area leadership in managing customer contracts in an organization chartered to deliver high-quality, ground breaking satellite communications system equipment for government customers.


The day-to-day

Your customer management expertise and passion will be integral to help us craft new networks and service existing programs.­ You will work closely with our Business Development team and directly with our customers to define system requirements, and will work with our engineering and operations teams to find and deliver practical solutions meeting these requirements.­ You will be the point of contact for key programmatic communications with our customers and provide best-of-class service and support throughout the entire program life-cycle while participating in business area growth.


What you'll need
  • 8+ years' multifaceted Program Management experience supporting Government organizations

  • Solid track record to work in high pressure situations while maintaining integrity

  • Own full responsibility and accountability of all programs you are executing
  • Ability to present technical and programmatic details at an abstracted level in a customer-facing language

  • Shown experience leading and collaborating with interdisciplinary teams including, but not limited to, Business Development, Engineering, Contracts, Finance, and Operations both internally and externally

  • Outstanding verbal and written communication skills

  • Programmatic gate process experience

  • Aerospace engineering subject area with aircraft certification experience

  • Solid track record with driving contractual requirements to deliver on-time

  • Bachelor's Degree in a technical subject area or equivalent experience

  • Active DoD Secret Clearance

  • Ability to travel up to 25% both CONUS and OCONUS


What will help you on the job
  • 5+ years demonstrated experience with satellite communications systems
  • Active DoD TS Secret Clearance or ability to obtain when administratively feasible
  • Experience in delivering communications systems for aviation customers, including platform integration
  • Experience with Goverment Funding and Program Management/Acquisiton Lifecycle

Salary range
$119,000.00 - $188,500.00 / annually.For specific work locations within San Jose, the San Francisco Bay area and New York City metropolitan area, the base pay range for this role is $148,500.00- $222,500.00/ annually
At Viasat, we consider many factors when it comes to compensation, including the scope of the position as well as your background and experience. Base pay may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Additional cash or stock incentives may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to a range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the position offered. Learn more about Viasat's comprehensive benefit offerings that are focused on your holistic health and wellness at https://careers.viasat.com/benefits.
EEO Statement

Viasat is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, seeking to create a welcoming and diverse environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, marital status, genetics, age, or veteran status or any other applicable legally protected status or characteristic. If you would like to request an accommodation on the basis of disability for completing this on-line application, please click here.

Qualifications:
  • 8+ years' multifaceted Program Management experience supporting Government organizations

  • Solid track record to work in high pressure situations while maintaining integrity

  • Own full responsibility and accountability of all programs you are executing
  • Ability to present technical and programmatic details at an abstracted level in a customer-facing language

  • Shown experience leading and collaborating with interdisciplinary teams including, but not limited to, Business Development, Engineering, Contracts, Finance, and Operations both internally and externally

  • Outstanding verbal and written communication skills

  • Programmatic gate process experience

  • Aerospace engineering subject area with aircraft certification experience

  • Solid track record with driving contractual requirements to deliver on-time

  • Bachelor's Degree in a technical subject area or equivalent experience

  • Active DoD Secret Clearance

  • Ability to travel up to 25% both CONUS and OCONUS

Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

What Viasat employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


ViaSat logo

About ViaSat

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Viasat, we're on a mission to deliver connections with the capacity to change the world. For more than 35 years, Viasat has helped shape how consumers, businesses, governments and militaries around the globe communicate.

Industry

Telecommunications

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Carlsbad, CA, US

Year founded

1986