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Principal Program Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Principal Program Manager

North Bay, NY · On-site

$165K - $223K/yr

The Principal Program Manager will be responsible for developing and implementing a successful business growth strategy within assigned segment(s), identification and pursuit of significant new ...

Principal Program Manager

Sauquoit, NY · On-site

$165K - $223K/yr

The Principal Program Manager will be responsible for developing and implementing a successful business growth strategy within assigned segment(s), identification and pursuit of significant new ...

Principal Program Manager

Manlius, NY · On-site

$165K - $223K/yr

The Principal Program Manager will be responsible for developing and implementing a successful business growth strategy within assigned segment(s), identification and pursuit of significant new ...

Principal Program Manager

Jamesville, NY · On-site

$165K - $223K/yr

The Principal Program Manager will be responsible for developing and implementing a successful business growth strategy within assigned segment(s), identification and pursuit of significant new ...

Principal Program Manager

Hamilton, NY · On-site

$165K - $223K/yr

The Principal Program Manager will be responsible for developing and implementing a successful business growth strategy within assigned segment(s), identification and pursuit of significant new ...

Principal Program Manager

Syracuse, NY · On-site

$165K - $223K/yr

The Principal Program Manager will be responsible for developing and implementing a successful business growth strategy within assigned segment(s), identification and pursuit of significant new ...

Principal Program Manager

Lee Center, NY · On-site

$165K - $223K/yr

The Principal Program Manager will be responsible for developing and implementing a successful business growth strategy within assigned segment(s), identification and pursuit of significant new ...

Principal Program Manager

Cortland, NY · On-site

$165K - $223K/yr

The Principal Program Manager will be responsible for developing and implementing a successful business growth strategy within assigned segment(s), identification and pursuit of significant new ...

Principal Program Manager

Tully, NY · On-site

$165K - $223K/yr

The Principal Program Manager will be responsible for developing and implementing a successful business growth strategy within assigned segment(s), identification and pursuit of significant new ...

Principal Program Manager

Nedrow, NY · On-site

$165K - $223K/yr

The Principal Program Manager will be responsible for developing and implementing a successful business growth strategy within assigned segment(s), identification and pursuit of significant new ...

Principal Program Manager

Rome, NY · On-site

$165K - $223K/yr

The Principal Program Manager will be responsible for developing and implementing a successful business growth strategy within assigned segment(s), identification and pursuit of significant new ...

Principal Program Manager

Warners, NY · On-site

$165K - $223K/yr

The Principal Program Manager will be responsible for developing and implementing a successful business growth strategy within assigned segment(s), identification and pursuit of significant new ...

Principal Program Manager

Mexico, NY · On-site

$165K - $223K/yr

The Principal Program Manager will be responsible for developing and implementing a successful business growth strategy within assigned segment(s), identification and pursuit of significant new ...

Principal Program Manager

Syracuse, NY · On-site

$165K - $223K/yr

The Principal Program Manager will be responsible for developing and implementing a successful business growth strategy within assigned segment(s), identification and pursuit of significant new ...

The Principal Program Manager will be responsible for developing and implementing a successful business growth strategy within assigned segment(s), identification and pursuit of significant new ...

Principal Program Manager

Rome, NY · On-site

$165K - $223K/yr

The Principal Program Manager will be responsible for developing and implementing a successful business growth strategy within assigned segment(s), identification and pursuit of significant new ...

Principal Program Manager

Sandy Creek, NY · On-site

$165K - $223K/yr

The Principal Program Manager will be responsible for developing and implementing a successful business growth strategy within assigned segment(s), identification and pursuit of significant new ...

Principal Program Manager

Lycoming, NY · On-site

$165K - $223K/yr

The Principal Program Manager will be responsible for developing and implementing a successful business growth strategy within assigned segment(s), identification and pursuit of significant new ...

Principal Program Manager

Pompey, NY · On-site

$165K - $223K/yr

The Principal Program Manager will be responsible for developing and implementing a successful business growth strategy within assigned segment(s), identification and pursuit of significant new ...

Principal Program Manager

Killawog, NY · On-site

$165K - $223K/yr

The Principal Program Manager will be responsible for developing and implementing a successful business growth strategy within assigned segment(s), identification and pursuit of significant new ...

Showing results 41-60

Principal Program Manager information

See salary details

$36.5K

$109.4K

$182K

How much do principal program manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal program manager in the United States is $109,393.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,000.00 and $125,000.00 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.

More about Principal Program Manager jobs

What cities are hiring for Principal Program Manager jobs?

Cities with the most Principal Program Manager job openings:

Who are the top companies hiring for Principal Program Manager jobs?

The top employers for Principal Program Manager jobs are:

What states have the most Principal Program Manager jobs?

States with the most job openings for Principal Program Manager jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Principal Program Manager jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Principal Program Manager jobs are:

Infographic showing various Principal Program Manager job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,393 per year, or $52.6 per hour.

Principal Program Manager

Saab

North Bay, NY • On-site

$165K - $223K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

Job Description:

Saab, Inc. in East Syracuse, NY is seeking a dynamic, results-oriented Principal Program Manager to be responsible for the profitable execution of programs within the Surveillance U.S. division. The preferred candidate will have an in-depth knowledge of military or commercial radar systems, markets, and technologies through several years of working in this domain. The Principal Program Manager will be responsible for developing and implementing a successful business growth strategy within assigned segment(s), identification and pursuit of significant new business opportunities, and interfacing across disciplines and departments to achieve business objectives.

Additional responsibilities of the Principal Program Manager will include, but are not limited to:

Specifically accountable for cost, schedule and technical performance of assigned Program portfolios.

  • Establish and control program budgets that are aligned with program needs.

  • Establish and control program schedule to meet all program milestones.

  • Establish and maintain depot capabilities necessary to support Saab products.

  • Manage applicable NRE labor and applicable material procurements.

  • Coordinate the definition of facility requirements

  • Manage the on-going maintenance, repair and operational support of Saab products to include managing logistics, spare parts, technical data and technical support

  • Ensure all projects within assigned program are managed and executed within approved program management processes.

  • Identify and manage risks and opportunities across cost, schedule and technical.

  • Make personnel recommendations in support of business objectives.

  • Drive Earned Value Management principles and initiatives within the business and use EVMS to report program status internally and externally.

  • Ensure performance of subcontractors.

Oversee profitable growth of the program segment.

  • Work closely with Sales and Product Management personnel to maintain institutional knowledge of the competitive landscape in the assigned market segment.

  • Develop high quality competitive proposals that facilitate achievement of business segment objectives.

  • Collaborate with all functions within the business unit to leverage program execution, capture strategies and resources through the design and manufacturing phases of the programs in the portfolio.

  • Grow relationships in the customer community and with large industry primes to service existing programs and find new and unique ways to deploy our technology to meet customer needs.

Provide consistent leadership to the program execution staff to ensure effective and efficient execution of assigned programs.

  • Monitor and guide junior program managers to achieve delivery of distinctively high-quality products and services; to include performance, reliability, cost and on-time delivery.

  • Contribute to the development and retention of program management talent.

Compensation.

  • $165,700 - $223,800.

The compensation range provided is a general guideline. When extending an offer, Saab, Inc. considers factors including (but not limited to) the role and associated responsibilities, location, and market and business considerations, as well as the candidate's work experience, key skills, and education/training.

Skills and Experience:

Required Qualifications

  • BA/BS degree and 20+ years experience, OR MA/MS degree and 18+ years experience, OR PhD degree and 16+ years experience.

  • Experience successfully negotiating multi-million-dollar agreements.

  •  Must possess advanced knowledge of program management standards and best practices (scheduling, cost accounting, EVMS, Risk/Opportunity management).

  • Willingness to travel internationally and domestic up to 15% (about 1 trip per quarter)

  • The ability to obtain a U.S. DoD SECRET security clearance.

Desired Qualifications

  • Engineering or program management background with 10+ years of progressive program management experience

  • Demonstrated experience supporting both defense and commercial products

Citizenship Requirements:

Must be a U.S. citizen. Applicants selected may be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.

Drug-Free Workplaces:

Saab is a federal government contractor and adheres to policies and programs necessary for sustaining drug-free workplaces. As a condition of employment, candidates will be required to pass a pre-employment drug screen.

Benefits:

Saab provides an excellent working environment offering professional growth opportunities, competitive wages, work-life balance, a business casual atmosphere and comprehensive benefits.

Highlights include:

  • Medical, vision, and dental insurance for employees and dependents

  • Generous paid time off, including 8 designated holidays

  • 401(k) with employer contributions

  • Tuition assistance and student loan assistance

  • Wellness and employee assistance resources

  • Employee stock purchase opportunities

  • Short-term and long-term disability coverage

About Us:

Saab is a leading defense and security company with an enduring purpose, to help nations keep their people and society safe. Empowered by its 28,000 talented people, Saab constantly pushes the boundaries of technology to create a safer and more sustainable world. In the U.S., Saab delivers advanced technology and systems, supporting the U.S. Armed Forces and the Federal Aviation Administration, as well as international and commercial partners. Headquartered in Syracuse, New York, the company has business units and local employees in ten U.S. locations.

Saab is a company where we see diversity as an asset and offer unlimited opportunities for advancing in your career. We are also a company that respects each person’s needs and encourage employees to lead a balanced, rewarding life beyond work. Saab values diversity and is an Affirmative Action employer for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. Saab is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer, all qualified individuals are encouraged to apply and will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, age, veteran, disability status, or any other federal, state, or locally protected category.


Saab logo

About Saab

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

East Syracuse, NY, US