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Program Design Manager Jobs in Laurel, MD (NOW HIRING)

Wellness programs and employee resource groups * Career Development * Matching 401(k) plan * Paid Holidays * Much, much more! Why RK&K? As a full-service engineering and construction management firm ...

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Program Design Manager information

See Laurel, MD salary details

$38.2K

$106.5K

$155.7K

How much do program design manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for program design manager in Laurel, MD is $106,543.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,800.00 and $131,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Program Design Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Program Design Manager, you need expertise in program development, project management, and stakeholder engagement, often supported by a relevant degree and experience in program leadership. Familiarity with project management software (like Asana or MS Project), data analysis tools, and sometimes certifications such as PMP are typically required. Outstanding communication, strategic thinking, and adaptability are crucial soft skills for coordinating teams and driving program success. These skills ensure that programs are effectively planned, executed, and aligned with organizational goals for maximum impact.

How does a Program Design Manager typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during the development of new initiatives?

A Program Design Manager regularly collaborates with cross-functional teams, including product development, marketing, operations, and finance, to ensure that new programs align with organizational goals and stakeholder needs. They facilitate workshops, gather feedback, and integrate diverse perspectives to create effective program frameworks. Open communication and strong project management skills are essential, as the role often involves coordinating timelines, resources, and deliverables across departments. This collaborative approach helps ensure the program’s success and fosters a cohesive work environment.

What does a Program Design Manager do?

A Program Design Manager oversees the planning, development, and implementation of programs within an organization. They work closely with stakeholders to identify goals, design effective program structures, and ensure that projects align with organizational objectives. Their responsibilities often include resource allocation, timeline management, and evaluating program success to make continuous improvements. This role requires strong leadership, strategic thinking, and communication skills.

What is the difference between Program Design Manager vs Project Manager?

AspectProgram Design ManagerProject Manager
Primary FocusDesigning and developing comprehensive programs and initiativesPlanning, executing, and closing individual projects
ResponsibilitiesCreating program strategies, overseeing multiple projects, aligning with organizational goalsManaging project scope, schedule, resources, and deliverables
CredentialsOften requires a degree in related fields and experience in program developmentTypically requires project management certifications like PMP
Work EnvironmentStrategic, cross-project coordination, often in corporate or government settingsOperational, task-focused, often within teams or departments

The Program Design Manager focuses on creating and overseeing comprehensive programs, while the Project Manager handles specific projects within those programs. Both roles require coordination skills, but the Program Design Manager has a broader strategic scope.

What cities near Laurel, MD are hiring for Program Design Manager jobs? Cities near Laurel, MD with the most Program Design Manager job openings:
Construction and Engineer, Program Design Specialist, DOS PM/SA

Construction and Engineer, Program Design Specialist, DOS PM/SA

Dexis

Washington, DC • Hybrid

Other

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

About the Position

Dexis is recruiting a highly qualified Construction and Engineer, Program Design Specialist to provide embedded operational support to the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Political-Military Affairs, Office of Security Assistance (PM/SA). The Specialist will serve as a core member of the PM/SA support team and will support the quality assurance and effective delivery of large-scale engineering and construction projects, including base camps, airfields, utilities, and other mission-critical installations.

This role supports program design, engineering oversight, monitoring and evaluation, cost and schedule control, and risk management to ensure projects are delivered cost-effectively, on schedule, and in compliance with all applicable codes, standards, and U.S. Government requirements, under Government direction.

This position is based onsite in Washington, DC and is contingent upon contract award. U.S. citizenship and an active Secret clearance are required. The selected candidate may begin work with an interim Secret clearance. Occasional domestic and international travel may be required for short-term technical assistance assignments.

Responsibilities
  • Lead and support risk management, monitoring and evaluation (M&E), and engineering assessments for complex construction programs.
  • Oversee and advise on program design, including Design-Build and Design-Bid-Build methodologies, remote-site construction, and partner-nation capacity support.
  • Conduct technical evaluations, develop Independent Government Cost Estimates (IGCEs), and support the development of Statements of Work (SOWs) and Performance Work Statements (PWSs).
  • Ensure quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) and code compliance (e.g., International Building Code, National Fire Protection Association, and National Electric Code) across multiple concurrent projects.
  • Provide expert oversight of schedule and cost control, risk and performance management, and multi-project coordination with diverse stakeholders.
  • Support the development and implementation of monitoring and evaluation frameworks tailored to construction and infrastructure programs.
  • Advise on overseas infrastructure delivery, ensuring alignment with U.S. Government standards and host-nation requirements.
  • Prepare and present reports, briefings, and recommendations to senior leadership and interagency partners.
Qualifications 
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Architecture, or a related field.
  • At least 8-10 years of progressively responsible experience leading complex U.S. Government task orders, major capital projects, and overseas infrastructure programs.
  • Demonstrated expertise in:
    • Program design and construction program management
    • Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) for construction projects
    • Risk and performance management
    • Schedule and cost control
    • Technical evaluations and IGCE development
    • SOW/PWS writing and requirements definition
    • Overseas infrastructure delivery
    • QA/QC and code compliance
    • Multi-project oversight and stakeholder coordination
  • Strong leadership and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple large-scale projects simultaneously.
  • In-depth knowledge of U.S. Government construction standards, regulations, and procurement processes.
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills, with the ability to prepare clear, concise reports and briefings.
  • Proven ability to work effectively in cross-cultural and multi-disciplinary teams.
  • Proficiency in risk management, M&E methodologies, and engineering assessments.
  • U.S. citizenship and an active Secret clearance (interim acceptable).
Preferred Qualifications
  • Previous experience supporting PM/SA.
  • Advanced degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Architecture, or a related field.