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Open Source Program Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We work in collaboration with Microsoft product teams, partners, and open-source communities to ... We are hiring a Principal Technical Program Manager to help drive high-impact engineering projects ...

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Open Source Program Manager information

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$38.5K

$107.5K

$157K

How much do open source program manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for open source program manager in the United States is $107,460.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,500.00 and $132,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Open Source Program Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Open Source Program Manager, you need expertise in open source software development, project management, and a deep understanding of open source licensing and community dynamics, often supported by a technical degree or relevant experience. Familiarity with tools like GitHub, GitLab, project tracking systems, and knowledge of compliance or legal frameworks are typically required. Outstanding communication, stakeholder management, and collaboration skills help build trust and foster engagement across diverse internal and external communities. These skills are crucial for effectively driving open source initiatives, ensuring legal compliance, and maximizing the value of open collaboration for the organization.

What is an Open Source Program Manager?

An Open Source Program Manager (OSPM) is responsible for overseeing an organization's use, contribution to, and compliance with open source software. They create policies, manage open source initiatives, foster community engagement, and ensure legal and security best practices are followed. OSPMs act as a bridge between engineering, legal, and business teams, helping to maximize the value of open source while minimizing risks. Their work often includes coordinating open source strategy, tracking projects, and promoting open source culture within the company.

What are some common challenges Open Source Program Managers face when integrating open source practices within an organization?

Open Source Program Managers often encounter challenges such as ensuring compliance with open source licenses, fostering a culture of collaboration, and balancing business objectives with community contributions. They may also need to coordinate across multiple departments—such as legal, engineering, and security—to establish clear open source policies and processes. Successfully addressing these challenges requires strong communication skills, a solid understanding of open source ecosystems, and the ability to advocate for best practices throughout the organization.

What is the difference between Open Source Program Manager vs Open Source Software Engineer?

AspectOpen Source Program ManagerOpen Source Software Engineer
CredentialsProject management certifications, technical understandingComputer science degree, coding skills
Work EnvironmentCoordination, planning, stakeholder communicationDevelopment, coding, software design
Employer & IndustryTech companies, open source projects, nonprofitsTech companies, open source communities, startups
Search & Comparison IntentFocus on managing open source initiativesFocus on software development in open source

The Open Source Program Manager primarily oversees open source projects, coordinating teams and managing community relations. In contrast, the Open Source Software Engineer focuses on developing and coding software within open source projects. Both roles are vital in the open source ecosystem but differ in responsibilities and skill sets.

Infographic showing various Open Source Program Manager job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 50% In-person, and 50% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,460 per year, or $51.7 per hour.
Open Source Technology Innovation Analyst I

Open Source Technology Innovation Analyst I

Agile Defense

Arlington, VA

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

About Agile Defense
 
At Agile Defense we know that action defines the outcome and new challenges require new solutions. That's why we always look to the future and embrace change with an unmovable spirit and the courage to build for what comes next.
 
Our vision is to bring adaptive innovation to support our nation's most important missions through the seamless integration of advanced technologies, elite minds, and unparalleled agility-leveraging a foundation of speed, flexibility, and ingenuity to strengthen and protect our nation's vital interests.

Requisition #: 1454
Job Title: Open Source Technology Innovation Analyst I
Location: Rosslyn, VA
Clearance Level: Secret
 
SUMMARY
 
Agile Defense is an award-winning national security company looking for an Open Source Technology Innovation Analyst to support the advancement of innovative technical capabilities within a federal law enforcement client's Open Source Intelligence Program focused on detecting threats to specific people, locations, and events. This role is designed for an early-career professional with strong foundational skills, intellectual curiosity, and a demonstrated interest in emerging technologies. The selected candidate will contribute to research, evaluation, and development efforts that enhance the organization's ability to identify threats, strengthen tradecraft, and deploy modern technical solutions in support of mission objectives. This position offers significant knowledge and experience growth potential and hands-on exposure to applied technology in a dynamic, fast-evolving operational environment.
 
As a direct employee of Agile Defense, you would receive a benefit package that includes health/dental/vision insurance coverage, 401K with company match, PTO & paid holidays, and annual tuition/training assistance. For more information, please visit our website.
 
JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
 
As an Open Source Technology Innovation Analyst, you will:
Conduct research on emerging technologies, platforms, and tools relevant to open source intelligence operations
Assist in evaluating technical solutions and identifying opportunities for innovation and capability enhancement
Support pilot initiatives, testing, and proof-of-concept projects
Collaborate with senior analysts to develop and refine technical workflows and tradecraft
Monitor industry trends, certifications, and best practices to ensure alignment with current standards
Contribute to documentation, reporting, and knowledge-sharing efforts within the unit
Provide analytical and technical support across a range of evolving projects
 
Day-to-day work will vary based on operational priorities and emerging opportunities. The ideal candidate thrives in an environment where adaptability, initiative, and continuous learning are essential. This position reports to the Tech Unit Chief and works closely with senior technical analysts.
 
QUALIFICATIONS
 
Ability to summarize information clearly and concisely, both verbally and in writing
Ability and willingness to learn new open source intelligence technology and tools
Ability to facilitate communication effectively with individuals at all levels both within and outside of the organization
Demonstrated interest in technology, research, or innovation-focused work
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Ability to work on-site in a collaborative team environment
Education, Background, and Years of Experience
Bachelor's degree
Minimum 2 years directly related professional experience
 
ADDITIONAL SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONS
Preferred Skills
 
Relevant technical certifications (e.g., CompTIA Security+, CySA+, AWS Cloud Practitioner, Microsoft certifications, etc.)
Experience supporting research, testing, or technical evaluation projects
Familiarity with open source research methodologies
Experience working in mission-driven, operational environments
Excellent organizational skills.
Excellent grasp of Microsoft O365
 
WORKING CONDITIONS
Environmental Conditions - Office environment
 
Physical/Strength Demands - This position is sedentary in nature and therefore, has no specific strength/physical requirements.
 
WHY JOIN?
This position operates at the intersection of intelligence and technology innovation. The unit continuously evaluates new technologies, develops future state tradecraft, and identifies tools that strengthen operational effectiveness.
 
This role offers the opportunity to:
Develop advanced technical expertise in a mission-focused setting
Work directly alongside experienced technical practitioners
Contribute to meaningful innovation with real-world operational impact
Grow into increasing levels of responsibility as capabilities mature
 
If you are motivated by emerging technology, energized by problem-solving, and committed to supporting a mission larger than yourself, we encourage you to apply.
Our Core Values
 
Employees of Agile Defense are our number one priority, and the importance we place on our culture here is fundamental. Our culture is alive and evolving, but it always stays true to its roots. Here, you are valued as a family member, and we believe that we can accomplish great things together. Agile Defense has been highly successful in the past few years due to our employees and the culture we create together. 
 
What makes us Agile? We call it the 6Hs, the values that define our culture and guide everything we do. Together, these values infuse vibrancy, integrity, and a tireless work ethic into advancing the most important national security and critical civilian missions. It's how we show up every day. It's who we are.
 
  • Happy - Be Infectious. Happiness multiplies and creates a positive and connected environment where motivation and satisfaction have an outsized effect on everything we do.
  • Helpful - Be Supportive. Being helpful is the foundation of teamwork, resulting in a supportive atmosphere where collaboration flourishes, and collective success is celebrated.
  • Honest - Be Trustworthy. Honesty serves as our compass, ensuring transparent communication and ethical conduct, essential to who we are and the complex domains we support.
  • Humble - Be Grounded. Success is not achieved alone, humility ensures a culture of mutual respect, encouraging open communication, and a willingness to learn from one another and take on any task.
  • Hungry - Be Eager. Our hunger for excellence drives an insatiable appetite for innovation and continuous improvement, propelling us forward in the face of new and unprecedented challenges.
  • Hustle - Be Driven. Hustle is reflected in our relentless work ethic, where we are each committed to going above and beyond to advance the mission and achieve success.
 
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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