ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Principal Program Manager Jobs in Hampton, VA (NOW HIRING)

VSolvit

PROGRAM MANAGER

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$160K - $190K/yr

The Program Manager provides executive leadership across all aspects of program execution ... Act as the principal liaison between Government customers, military leadership, subcontractors ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPrincipal Program JobsPrincipal Program Manager JobsPrincipal Program Manager Jobs in Hampton, VA

Principal Program Manager information

See Hampton, VA salary details

$35.3K

$105.7K

$175.9K

How much do principal program manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal program manager in Hampton, VA is $105,721.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,100.00 and $120,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a principal program manager?

A Principal Program Manager is a senior leadership role responsible for overseeing large, complex projects or programs within an organization. They set strategic direction, coordinate cross-functional teams, and ensure that projects align with business goals. Principal Program Managers often manage budgets, timelines, and stakeholder communications, leveraging their experience to resolve issues and drive successful outcomes. Their work is critical in guiding both the execution and vision of major initiatives.

How does a principal program manager typically collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive complex projects forward?

A Principal Program Manager regularly partners with engineering, product, design, and business stakeholders to ensure alignment on project goals, timelines, and deliverables. They facilitate communication between teams, identify and mitigate roadblocks, and help set clear priorities, often acting as a bridge between technical and non-technical groups. This role also involves influencing decision-making at higher organizational levels and mentoring junior program managers to build a cohesive and effective team environment. Strong collaboration and leadership skills are essential, as Principal Program Managers are responsible for orchestrating the efforts of diverse teams to achieve strategic objectives.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a principal program manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Principal Program Manager, you need expertise in program management methodologies, strong leadership abilities, and typically a degree in business, engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with tools like Microsoft Project, Jira, Agile frameworks, and certifications such as PMP or PgMP are highly valuable. Exceptional communication, stakeholder management, and strategic thinking are essential soft skills that set top performers apart. These competencies are crucial for delivering complex programs successfully, aligning teams, and achieving organizational goals.

What is the difference between Principal Program Manager vs Program Manager?

AspectPrincipal Program ManagerProgram Manager
CredentialsTypically requires 8+ years of experience, PMP or similar certifications often preferredUsually 3-7 years of experience, often with relevant project management certifications
Work EnvironmentStrategic planning, cross-functional leadership, high-level project oversightProject execution, team coordination, day-to-day management
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in tech, manufacturing, and large corporations for senior project rolesCommon across various industries for managing individual projects

The Principal Program Manager typically handles strategic, high-impact projects and leads multiple teams, requiring extensive experience and advanced certifications. In contrast, the Program Manager focuses on executing specific projects, managing teams, and ensuring project delivery. Both roles are vital but differ mainly in scope, responsibility, and seniority.

What cities near Hampton, VA are hiring for Principal Program Manager jobs?

Cities near Hampton, VA with the most Principal Program Manager job openings:

Principal Program Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Principal Program Manager job openings in Hampton, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,721 per year, or $50.8 per hour.

Program Manager

Bluewater Federal Solutions, Inc.

Suffolk, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Overview

BlueWater Federal is looking for a Program Manager to support the Joint Staff J6 Coalition Interoperability Assurance and Validation Office.

The mission focuses on improving interoperability between U.S. forces, Combatant Commands, Services, Agencies, and coalition mission partners through Mission Partner Environment (MPE) assessments, interoperability analysis, testing, standards evaluation, and coalition information-sharing initiatives.

Responsibilities
  • Direct all contract activities and personnel.
  • Manage cost, schedule, staffing, and performance.
  • Serve as principal liaison with JS J6 CIAV leadership.
  • Ensure compliance with PWS requirements and deliverables.
  • Lead program reviews, status meetings, and customer briefings.
  • Oversee risk management and quality assurance programs.
  • Coordinate support to Combatant Commands, Services, Agencies, and coalition partners.
  • Monitor staffing readiness and security compliance.
  • Review and approve all reports, assessments, and recommendations.
Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree
  • 12+ years of DoD program management experience; 5+ years supporting Joint Staff, Combatant Commands, or coalition operations.
  • Must have an active Top Secret clearance with SCI eligibility.
  • Experience managing TS/SCI programs.
  • PMP certification preferred.

BlueWater Federal is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.  All qualified candidates will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law. BlueWater Federal is a VEVRAA federal contractor and we request priority referral of veterans.

 We offer a competitive health and wellness benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage.  Our competitive compensation package includes generous 401k matching, employee stock purchase program, and life insurance options, and time off with pay. Salary range: 160-195K

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

Apply