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Program Manager Defense Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Join us and help shape the future of aerospace and defense. At Raytheon, the foundation of ... The Material Program Manager (MPM) role, within RTX, requires strong leadership skills with ...

Material Program Manager

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$135K/yr

Join us and help shape the future of aerospace and defense. At Raytheon, the foundation of ... The Material Program Manager (MPM) role, within RTX, requires strong leadership skills with ...

Material Program Manager

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$135K/yr

Join us and help shape the future of aerospace and defense. Raytheon is seeking an experienced ... Program Manager located onsite in Tucson, Arizona. We are looking for a self-starter who can ...

Material Program Manager

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$135K/yr

Join us and help shape the future of aerospace and defense. Raytheon is seeking an experienced ... Program Manager located onsite in Tucson, Arizona. We are looking for a self-starter who can ...

Senior Program Manager I/II

Tucson, AZ · On-site +1

$109K - $110K/yr

... defense initiatives. The team has built spacecraft, payloads, and components for missions to the ... SENIOR PROGRAM MANAGER I/II Rocket Lab's Optical Systems division solves mission-critical space ...

Join us and help shape the future of aerospace and defense. Raytheon is seeking an experienced ... The Sr. Mgr. MPM serves as the leader for all program's supply chain activities and is the liaison ...

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Program Manager Defense information

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.

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 are popular job titles related to Program Manager Defense jobs in Arizona? For Program Manager Defense jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Arizona are hiring for Program Manager Defense jobs? Cities in Arizona with the most Program Manager Defense job openings:
Infographic showing various Program Manager Defense job openings in Arizona as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
Program Manager

$125K/yr

Other

Posted 20 days ago


U.S. Department Of Defense rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 519 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 46 rated military and defense


Job description

Reemployed annuitant: This vacancy does not meet the criteria for appointment of annuitants.Qualifications:You may qualify for consideration if meeting time-in grade, specialized experience, education requirement, 90 days after competitive appointment requirement, and all other qualification requirements within 30 calendar days after the closing date of the announcement, unless otherwise indicated on the announcement.
You must meet the minimum qualification requirements as stated in the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Operating Manual, Qualification Standards for General Schedule Positions, http://www.opm.gov/qualifications/Standards/group-stds/gs-prof.asp.
This position has a positive education requirement. You must submit proof of education or of certification to be considered for this position. To qualify for this position you must meet one of the basic requirements described below:
Degree:
accounting or a related field (such as business administration, finance, or public administration) that included or was supplemented by 24 semester hours (or 36 quarter hours) in accounting (may include up to 6 hours of business law).
OR
Combination of education and experience:
4 years of accounting experience or a combination of accounting experience, college-level education, and training that provided professional accounting knowledge AND 24 semester hours (or 36 quarter hours) in accounting/auditing courses or a certificate as Certified Public Accountant or a Certified Internal Auditor.
Specialized Experience: In addition to meeting the basic requirements, you must have one year of specialized experience at the GS-13 or equivalent level. Specialized experience must be documented in your resume. Specialized experience is defined as: professional experience leading complex, risk-based audit programs, managing resources, and expertly applying GAGAS and GAAS to evaluate internal controls and establish quality assurance frameworks; OR analyzing intricate financial or operational data to prepare executive-level reports and serving as a technical advisor on complex regulatory and compliance matters.
Volunteer Experience: Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills, and can provide valuable training and experience that translates to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.Education:Substitution of Education for Specialized Experience: There is no substitution of education for experience at this grade level.Employment Type: OTHER

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