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Program Development Manager Jobs in Fort Collins, CO

nLIGHT

Program Manager

Longmont, CO · On-site

Responsible for supporting the development and integration of artifacts for formal DoD acquisition design reviews (Status Reports, CoDR, SRR, PDR, IBR, etc.). The ideal candidate has a strong ...

nLIGHT

Program Manager

Longmont, CO

$120K - $180K/yr

Responsible for supporting the development and integration of artifacts for formal DoD acquisition design reviews (Status Reports, CoDR, SRR, PDR, IBR, etc.). The ideal candidate has a strong ...

nLIGHT

Program Manager

Longmont, CO · On-site

$120K - $180K/yr

Responsible for supporting the development and integration of artifacts for formal DoD acquisition design reviews (Status Reports, CoDR, SRR, PDR, IBR, etc.). The ideal candidate has a strong ...

nLIGHT

Program Manager

Longmont, CO · On-site

$120K - $180K/yr

Responsible for supporting the development and integration of artifacts for formal DoD acquisition design reviews (Status Reports, CoDR, SRR, PDR, IBR, etc.). The ideal candidate has a strong ...

IDEX Corporation

Program Manager

Longmont, CO · On-site

May support the onboarding and development of new GSD program managers. * May serve as an interim primary point of contact for customers until an account manager is determined. * Other duties and ...

IDEX

Program Manager

Longmont, CO · On-site +1

May support the onboarding and development of new GSD program managers. * May serve as an interim primary point of contact for customers until an account manager is determined. * Other duties and ...

Imh

Product Development Partner - Medicare

Fort Collins, CO · On-site

$113K - $141K/yr

The Product Development Partner is a senior level product manager who leads the development and management of a portfolio of high-impact Medicare products within the government programs division at ...

Ursa Major

Program Manager II

Berthoud, CO

$112K - $140K/yr

The Program Manager II is a leader who provides direction and ensures programmatic success across ... Participates as a stakeholder and support in the lifecycle of defense proposal development ...

Ursa Major

Program Manager II

Berthoud, CO

$112K - $140K/yr

The Program Manager II is a leader who provides direction and ensures programmatic success across ... Participates as a stakeholder and support in the lifecycle of defense proposal development ...

Vitesse Systems

Program Manager II

Longmont, CO · On-site

$90K - $129K/yr

Plan, organize, and direct all major program phases - including sales support/proposal development ... Manage scope changes and plan re-baselining. * Delegate to ensure full compliance for varying ...

Ursa Major

Program Manager II

Longmont, CO

$112K - $140K/yr

The Program Manager II is a leader who provides direction and ensures programmatic success across ... Participates as a stakeholder and support in the lifecycle of defense proposal development ...

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All JobsProgram Development JobsProgram Development Manager JobsProgram Development Manager Jobs in Fort Collins, CO

Program Development Manager information

See Fort Collins, CO salary details

$31.7K

$118.8K

$198K

How much do program development manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for program development manager in Fort Collins, CO is $118,840.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,200.00 and $141,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectProgram Development ManagerProject Manager
Primary FocusOversees multiple related projects to achieve strategic goalsManages individual projects to meet specific objectives
ResponsibilitiesDevelops program strategies, coordinates projects, manages stakeholdersPlans, executes, and closes projects within scope, time, and budget
CredentialsOften requires a PMP or similar certification, relevant experienceTypically requires PMP or CAPM certification, project management experience
Work EnvironmentStrategic planning, cross-project coordination, stakeholder communicationProject planning, team management, task execution

The Program Development Manager focuses on overseeing multiple projects aligned with strategic goals, while the Project Manager manages individual projects. Both roles require project management certifications and involve coordinating teams, but the Program Development Manager has a broader, strategic scope.

What pays more, a project manager or a program development manager?

Generally, a program development manager tends to earn a higher salary than a project manager due to the broader scope and strategic responsibilities involved. Program managers often oversee multiple projects, require advanced skills in leadership and planning, and may hold certifications like PgMP, which can influence compensation. Salary differences can vary based on industry, experience, and location.

What is a program development manager?

A program development manager oversees the planning, coordination, and execution of multiple related projects within an organization to achieve strategic goals. They often manage teams, develop budgets, and ensure projects align with business objectives, requiring strong leadership, communication, and project management skills. Certification in project management methodologies like PMP can be beneficial.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a program development manager?

To thrive as a Program Development Manager, you need strong project management abilities, strategic planning skills, and a background in program design, often supported by a bachelor’s or master’s degree in business, nonprofit management, or a related field. Familiarity with project management software such as Asana or MS Project, and certifications like PMP, are commonly required for effective oversight. Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills help drive collaboration and motivate teams. These competencies are crucial for delivering successful programs that meet organizational goals and stakeholder expectations.

What are some common challenges faced by program development managers, and how can they address them?

Program Development Managers often encounter challenges such as aligning cross-functional teams, managing competing priorities, and ensuring that program goals meet both organizational and stakeholder needs. To address these challenges, effective communication, strong project management skills, and adaptability are essential. Regular check-ins with team members and stakeholders, clear goal-setting, and the use of project management tools can help streamline processes and keep programs on track. Building strong relationships across departments also facilitates smoother collaboration and problem-solving.
What job categories do people searching Program Development Manager jobs in Fort Collins, CO look for? The top searched job categories for Program Development Manager jobs in Fort Collins, CO are:
What cities near Fort Collins, CO are hiring for Program Development Manager jobs? Cities near Fort Collins, CO with the most Program Development Manager job openings:
Program Development Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Program Development Manager job openings in Fort Collins, CO as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $118,840 per year, or $57.1 per hour.

Program Manager

nLIGHT

Longmont, CO • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

Location: Longmont, CO (onsite)
Experience: 5+ years of experience managing DoD programs
Minimum Education: Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Science, or related field
Compensation: $120,000-$180,000 depending upon education and experience.
 
Who We Are
nLIGHT-DEFENSE Systems, Inc. is one of the nation’s leading developers of Directed Energy systems, which is a top modernization priority of the Department of Defense.  Our High Energy Laser (HEL) systems, Adaptive Optical (AO) systems, and Acquisition / Pointing / Tracking (APT) solutions are designed to overcome the most difficult challenges facing the deployment of high energy laser solutions to the United States military and our allies.  Located in Longmont, Colorado, nLIGHT-DEFENSE Systems, Inc. is a vertically integrated business that leverages internal capabilities – from semiconductor device through target identification – to develop systems that are both high-performance and cost-effective.  We continue to invest in capabilities, facilities and technology to bring leading edge HEL solutions to the warfighter. This is a great opportunity to work at a company that is on the leading edge of the HEL industry and provides a culture of excellence and commitment to delivering solutions to the warfighter and our country.  
 
Headquartered in Camas, Washington, nLIGHT is a publicly listed company (NASDAQ: LASR).
 
Summary:
We are seeking an experienced Program Manager to lead the planning, execution, and delivery of complex Department of Defense (DoD) programs. The Program Manager will oversee program scope, cost, schedule, performance, and customer satisfaction while ensuring compliance with DoD policies, contractual requirements, and organizational standards. This role requires strong leadership, stakeholder management, and experience working within DoD acquisition frameworks. The candidate will be responsible for successful execution and programmatic tracking support for High Energy Laser (HEL) Weapon Systems and/or HEL Beam Control Systems (BCS).  Work with Program Technical Leads to develop and manage program plans, resource allocation, schedule, budget, risk definition and tracking, and track execution against program plans and metrics.  Provide regular written and verbal reports to peers and management.  Implement appropriate business and operations systems in support of program execution needs.  The Program Manager must be expert at working with MSOffice based tools (Excel, MS Project, PowerPoint, Word) to support budget management, bill of materials management, cost tracking and controls, and schedule management and controls.  Work with Program Technical Leads, engineering teams, and accounting and supply chain to document and report task progress and set goals and objectives.  Support configuration management through the system design, development, integration, and test phases.  Responsible for supporting the development and integration of artifacts for formal DoD acquisition design reviews (Status Reports, CoDR, SRR, PDR, IBR, etc.).  The ideal candidate has a strong technical background, DoD Program Management experience, and is strong at mentorship, teaching, and has experience with agile software development principles and processes.

All applicants must possess or be qualified to obtain a U.S. DoD Personnel Security Clearance. Preference will be given to candidates with an existing U.S. DoD Personnel Security Clearance.  Further information on requirements to obtain a security clearance is available at: https://www.dcsa.mil/mc/pv/mbi/gicp/.  Please review this information before applying.
 
Responsibilities:
  • Serve as the primary point of contact with DoD customers, stakeholders, and subcontractors.
  • Lead program planning, budgeting, scheduling, and performance tracking.
  • Manage program teams across engineering, logistics, security, and support functions.
  • Develop program documentation (e.g., Program Management Plans, risk registers, decision briefs).
  • Monitor contract performance, deliverables, and earned value management (EVM) metrics as required.
  • Prepare and present program status reports, milestones, and reviews (e.g., IPTs, PMRs).
  • Identify, mitigate, and manage program risks, issues, and opportunities.
  • Oversee subcontractor performance and contract modifications.
  • Actively manage technical teams to ensure efficient and rapid execution of complex systems
Required Experience / Capability:
  • 5+ years of experience managing DoD programs
  • Demonstrated experience working with DoD customers and acquisition processes.
  • Proven ability to manage complex programs with cross-functional teams.
  • Strong communication, negotiation, and leadership skills.
  • Ability to manage budgets, schedules, and performance metrics.
  • Experience with risk management and issue resolution.
  • Proficiency with program management tools (MS Project, Jira, EVM tools, etc.).
  • Commitment to Excellence. Attention to Detail.  Pride in Workmanship.
  • Ability to work in a dynamic environment and maintain composure and good working relationships under pressure.
  • Superior problem-solving ability and ability to absorb information from multiple sources to reach a solution.
  • Develop and maintain documentation in support of formal DoD acquisition design reviews (i.e. CoDR, SRR, PDR, IBR, CDR, TRR, etc.)
  • Technical Presentation and Report Writing Skills (i.e. good technical writing skills are critical)
  • Vendor management experience.
 
Additional Desired Experience / Capability
  • Master’s degree (MBA, MS Systems Engineering, or related field).
  • Experience in functional and performance requirements allocation and tracking.
  • Experience in System Engineering tools: Model-based Systems Engineering tools.
  • Experience with High Energy Laser systems.
  • Experience with electro-optical systems including acquisition, pointing, and tracking and/or Adaptive Optical (AO) Systems.
  • Configuration Management for laser and electro-optical systems, in particular for high power applications.
 
Benefits Summary:  
  • 4 weeks of Paid Time Off per year 
  • 11 paid Holidays 
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan 
  • Tuition Assistance Program 
  • Health (ACA Gold Plan), Vision and Dental Care paid by employer 100% for Employee and 75% for Dependents 
  • Paid Family Leave, Short and Long Term Disability paid by employer 100% 
  • Competitive 401k with company match and immediate vesting  
  
Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or age. For more information about our commitment to equal employment opportunity, please see this government poster: Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal. If you are an individual with a disability and need a reasonable accommodation in the application or hiring process, please contact Human Resources at HR@nlightdefense.com.