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Program Manager Defense Jobs (NOW HIRING)

nLIGHT

Program Manager - Defense

Camas, WA · On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

The Program Manager brings strong initiative and excellent communication skills to drive high-impact aerospace and defense programs. This includes creating and monitoring key performance metrics ...

Oshkosh Corporation

Program Manager-Defense

Hudson, MI · On-site

$103.30K - $177.70K/yr

Defense programs are managed by utilizing resources from functional engineering and manufacturing groups. Responsibilities of the Program Manager is customer satisfaction and business unit ...

nLIGHT

Program Manager - Defense

Camas, WA

$90K - $120K/yr

The Program Manager brings strong initiative and excellent communication skills to drive high-impact aerospace and defense programs. This includes creating and monitoring key performance metrics ...

nLIGHT

Program Manager - Defense

Camas, WA

$90K - $120K/yr

The Program Manager brings strong initiative and excellent communication skills to drive high-impact aerospace and defense programs. This includes creating and monitoring key performance metrics ...

nLIGHT

Program Manager - Defense

Camas, WA

The Program Manager brings strong initiative and excellent communication skills to drive high-impact aerospace and defense programs. This includes creating and monitoring key performance metrics ...

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Program Manager Defense information

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$38.5K

$107.5K

$157K

How much do program manager defense jobs pay per year?

As of May 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for program manager defense 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 a Program Manager in Defense, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Program Manager in Defense, you need a strong background in project management, defense acquisition processes, and often a relevant degree such as engineering or business, with security clearance frequently required. Familiarity with tools like Microsoft Project, Earned Value Management Systems (EVMS), and DoD-specific platforms, as well as certifications like PMP or DAWIA, are typically expected. Exceptional leadership, negotiation, and communication skills set top performers apart by enabling them to manage diverse teams and stakeholders. These skills and qualifications ensure effective project execution, compliance with defense regulations, and successful delivery of critical programs within scope, budget, and timeline.

What are some common challenges a Program Manager in the defense sector faces when coordinating multidisciplinary teams?

Program Managers in the defense industry often encounter challenges such as balancing strict security requirements with timely project delivery, managing cross-functional teams that include engineers, analysts, and government stakeholders, and ensuring alignment with evolving defense regulations. Navigating complex stakeholder expectations and adapting to shifting project scopes are also frequent hurdles. Successful Program Managers proactively foster communication across teams and maintain detailed project documentation to address these challenges.

What is a Program Manager in Defense?

A Program Manager in Defense is responsible for overseeing and coordinating large-scale defense projects, which may involve military equipment, technology systems, or defense-related services. They ensure that projects are completed on time, within budget, and meet all specified requirements and regulations. This role often includes working with cross-functional teams, managing contracts, and liaising with government agencies or military branches. Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills are essential, as is a thorough understanding of defense industry standards and protocols.

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

AspectProgram Manager DefenseProject Manager Defense
ResponsibilitiesOversees multiple related projects, strategic planning, and overall program successManages individual projects, ensuring specific objectives are met within scope, time, and budget
CertificationsTypically PMP, PgMP, or similar certificationsUsually PMP or CAPM certifications
Work EnvironmentOften in defense contractors, government agencies, or military settingsSimilar environments, focusing on specific project deliverables
FocusStrategic coordination and long-term goalsTactical execution of individual projects

While both roles require project management skills and certifications like PMP, the Program Manager Defense oversees multiple projects and aligns them with strategic objectives, whereas the Project Manager Defense focuses on managing specific projects to meet immediate goals.

More about Program Manager Defense jobs
What cities are hiring for Program Manager Defense jobs? Cities with the most Program Manager Defense job openings:
What states have the most Program Manager Defense jobs? States with the most job openings for Program Manager Defense jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Program Manager Defense jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Program Manager Defense jobs are:
Program Manager Defense jobs near you
Infographic showing various Program Manager Defense job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 14% As Needed, and 86% Full Time. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,460 per year, or $51.7 per hour.
Program Manager - Defense

Program Manager - Defense

nLIGHT

Camas, WA • On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Description
Who We Are
At nLIGHT, we continuously push the boundaries of cutting-edge laser technology while transforming and creating markets. We are a leading provider of high-power semiconductors and fiber lasers for industrial, microfabrication, and the leader for aerospace & defense applications. Our lasers change not only the way things are made but what can be made.
Headquartered in Camas, Washington, nLIGHT is a publicly listed company (NASDAQ: LASR).
About the Role:
The Program Manager brings strong initiative and excellent communication skills to drive high-impact aerospace and defense programs. This includes creating and monitoring key performance metrics, building and strengthening customer relationships, and successful project execution against an AOP. The ideal candidate will have a technical background and experience with DOD projects, revenue forecasting, tracking funding and billing, subcontractor management, follow on proposals, meeting coordination (internal and external), and regular up-reporting on program performance.
Job Responsibilities:
  • Responsible for the successful technical, schedule, and cost performance of Defense programs, in accordance with contract requirements and company policies and procedures
  • Lead contract negotiations, including changes, change orders, and preparation of proposals/business plans; performance of Statement of Work (SOW) and specifications; and financial terms/conditions
  • Manage program/projects to deliver results on-time and on-budget
  • Lead and support proposal efforts for continued growth
  • Own customer satisfaction by building strong relationships and leading technical discussions
  • Monitor contract, subcontract, and funding; prepare forecasts of program financial performance
  • Develop and implement processes and tools for Program Management Excellence

Qualifications:
  • Minimum 3+ years' experience in Program Management; background in high-tech environemnts is preferred.
  • Minimum BS in Engineering, Economics, Finance, or a related degree
  • Knowledge of Government contractual terms and major contract types; CPFF, FFP, T&M
  • Knowledge of ITAR, EAR and related U.S. regulations
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills
  • Proficient in MS Office
  • Must be willing to travel up to 15%

nLIGHT is proud to offer comprehensive COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
Starting pay depends on qualifications:
  • Program Manager: $90,000 - $120,000

Other Compensation and Benefits
  • Target Cash Bonus of 5% of earned wages
  • Eligible for Restricted Stock Unit grants
  • 4 weeks of Paid Time Off per year
  • 10 paid Holidays
  • Eligible for health benefits on the 1st day of the month after your start date
  • Medical, Dental and Vision Benefits, including prescription and orthodontia with employee-paid premiums as low as $40.00 per pay period
  • Flexible Spending and Health Savings Accounts
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan
  • 401(k) with company match and immediate vesting
  • Company paid Short-Term and Long-Term Disability, and Life & AD&D Insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Aflac Supplemental Insurance
  • Paid Bereavement Leave and Jury Duty
  • Tuition Assistance Program
  • Pet Insurance

nLIGHT is subject to US Export Control regulations. To qualify for this position, you must be a US Person (that is, a US citizen, lawful permanent resident, or protected individual granted asylum or refugee status).
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 (360) 566-4460 or [email protected].
E-Verify Participation:nLIGHT participates in the E-Verify program. This employer will provide the Social Security Administration (SSA) and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) with information from each new employee's Form I-9 to confirm work authorization.
For more information, please review the following notices:
  • E-Verify Participation Poster
  • Right to Work Poster

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