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Program Manager Defense Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Sr Program Manager

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$109K - $109K/yr

As a Sr Program Manager here at Honeywell Aerospace, you will play a crucial role in leading and ... HONA), we're launching as an independent, publicly traded aerospace and defense company built on a ...

HARM Senior Program Manager

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$109K - $110K/yr

Join us and help shape the future of aerospace and defense. Raytheon is seeking a Sr Program Manager for the HARM program portfolio. Reporting to the HARM Associate Director, this role will manage ...

Sr Program Manager

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$113K - $114K/yr

... the Defense and Space marketplace where this technology yields high benefits. This is a key ... Lead and manage programs to ensure successful execution and delivery * Lead and manage key ...

Technical Program Manager

Chandler, AZ · On-site

$114K - $165K/yr

... defense. As an Alaska Native owned corporation, our work helps secure an enduring future for our ... The Program Manager (PM) is responsible for planning, coordinating, and delivering all aspects of ...

Material Program Manager

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$135K/yr

Join us and help shape the future of aerospace and defense. Raytheon is seeking a Material Program Manager (MPM) for their Standard Missile Munitions Acceleration Program to be located onsite in ...

Material Program Manager

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$135K/yr

Raytheon is seeking a Material Program Manager (MPM) to support a special program within the Air & Space Defense Systems (ASDS) strategic business unit. This role will require the individual work ...

Raytheon is seeking a Material Program Manager (MPM) to support a special program within the Air & Space Defense Systems (ASDS) strategic business unit. This role will require the individual work ...

Not Required At RTX, the world's largest aerospace and defense company, 185,000 great minds are ... This position works within a comprehensive supply chain program management structure and ...

Showing results 41-60

Program Manager Defense information

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

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 defense 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 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 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 job categories do people searching Program Manager Defense jobs in Arizona look for?

The top searched job categories for Program Manager Defense jobs in Arizona 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.

Subcontract Program Manager

General Dynamics Mission Systems, Inc

Scottsdale, AZ • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


General Dynamics Mission Systems rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 30 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

129th of 245 rated software companies


Job description

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent is required plus a minimum of 8 years relevant experience; or Master's degree plus a minimum of 6 years relevant experience to meet managerial expectations.
CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS:
Department of Defense Secret security clearance is required at time of hire. Applicants selected will be subject to a U.S. Government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information. Due to the nature of work performed within our facilities, U.S. citizenship is required.


The responsibility is career-defining. So is the opportunity. At General Dynamics Mission Systems, we invent the technologies, products and services, that help our nation’s heroes keep our nation safe. The work is so advanced, our teams regularly redefine innovation and excellence for the world. If you’re looking for a challenge, you’ve just found it.
We apply advanced technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Blockchain, AR/VR, Cloud Native and Quantum Physics to solve our customers’ missions in cyber, RF, undersea, interstellar and everything in between.

Duties and Tasks:

  • As a Subcontract Program Manager (SPM), primary responsibilities include: leading the Subcontract Management Team (SMT) for specific programs with Major Subcontract content; leads the SMT in a cross-functional team structure which is comprised of Subcontract Contract Administrators (SCA), Technical Engineers, Quality Engineers, and program support stakeholders as needed (i.e., Program Manager, Deputy Program Manager Engineer, Contracts, Finance, Configuration Management & Data Management (CM/DM), Software Engineers, Cybersecurity Engineers, Program Security, etc.).
  • Utilizes proposal plans and strategies to lead SMT in developing, defining, and implementing cohesive, integrated program and subcontractor plans and business plans that achieve overall objectives of the program and to manage all aspects of Subcontractor performance.
  • Works with the SMT to compile, develop, and review strategic down-selecting strategies, long-term agreements and strategic teaming agreements, subcontractor cost targets, Request for Information (RFI) and Request for Proposal (RFP) solicitation packages, Statements of Work (SOWs) and specifications, subcontractor proposal evaluations, award justifications, negotiation plans, and milestone payment plans or phased spending profiles.
  • Develops and maintains long-lasting relationships with key subcontractors while effectively managing their performance and deliverables to meet program requirements and commitments.
  • Establishes requirements and monitoring measures in SOWs and plans for subcontractors to achieve quality standards and meet cost / schedule / technical commitments to the business. Works with the program team to identify, mitigate, and balance the subcontractor’s risks and opportunities with executable strategies to meet technical requirements and budgets.
  • Manages the subcontractor’s performance to baseline plans to ensure rate of work completion is sufficient to meet program schedules and budget. Manages scope changes and impacts and develops corrective action plans as required. 
  • Performs or supports, as required, the GDMS Cost Account Manager (CAM) role for subcontract WBS elements of the Integrated Master Plan for the program. Will oversee subcontractor’s Earned Value Management System (EVMS) performance when required. Approves subcontractor invoices processed by the SCA.
  • Prepares and presents the subcontract performance status to executive leadership and external customers monthly and upon request.

 

Position Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Ability to lead high performance, cross-functional subcontract management teams and to manage major subcontractor’s performance throughout the contract period of performance.
  • Ability to lead or influence others in team building, conflict resolution, motivation, development and execution of proposal plans, baseline plans, on-going scope change management, and long-term subcontract strategies for senior level reviews.
  • Ability to apply and adapt existing Program Management knowledge, skills, and abilities to be accountable and take ownership for delegated subcontract program management responsibilities across several programs or as the primary SPM for one or more programs and/or proposals within a business area.
  • Desires and accepts increased responsibilities over time.
  • Has the ability to understand highly complex mission systems and products.
  • Demonstrates the confidence and professional diplomacy, while effectively relating to all people at all levels internally and externally.
  • Understands priorities, escalation timing, cultural norms, and unwritten rules for success at all levels of the organization.
  • A deep understanding of interrelationships, roles, and responsibilities of the internal and external organization.
  • Working knowledge to drive the development and implementation of Subcontract elements of a Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) including Cost Account Management and EVMS.
  • Ability to generate cohesive subcontract program plans.
  • Must be able to establish and assure adherence to subcontract budgets, schedules, work plans, and performance requirements.
  • Ability to track work accomplished to baseline plans and identify issues, track progress, and follow through on effective corrective actions based on data analysis and trends.
  • A deep understanding of program schedules, risk areas, slack time, and critical path.
  • Ability to understand and analyze subcontractors’ program financial data.
  • Skilled in communicating issues, impacts, and corrective actions on subcontracted efforts to internal and external representatives.
  • Demonstrates strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to evaluate quality of work product to ensure satisfaction of customer requirements.
  • Demonstrates the understanding of advanced risk and opportunity management techniques.
  • Ability to apply advanced negotiation skills to solve internal, external and customer issues.
  • Demonstrates the understanding of business objectives and long-term subcontract strategy.
  • Ability to develop negotiation strategies to support subcontract negotiation tactics which meet program budgets.
  • Ability to interact and communicate frequently with internal personnel and outside representatives at various levels.
  • Working Knowledge of MS Project, Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Sharepoint repositories, CM/DM, Contract Data Requirements Lists (CDRLs), Earned Value Management System requirements.
  • Must be able to work on site and within SCIF (Scottsdale or Fair Lakes) for a majority of the work week.
  • Required to travel on an as needed basis up to 20% of the time.

This estimate represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors (geographic location, etc.). Actual pay may vary. This job posting will remain open until the position is filled.
USD $160,400.00 - USD $170,300.00 /Yr.

At General Dynamics Mission Systems, we rise to the challenge each day to ensure the safety of those that lead, serve, and protect the world we live in. We do this by making the world’s most advanced defense platforms even smarter. Our engineers redefine what’s possible and our manufacturing team brings it to life, building the brains behind the brawn on submarines, ships, combat vehicles, aircraft, satellites, and other advanced systems.

We pride ourselves in being a great place to work with this shared sense of purpose, committed to a diverse and exciting employee experience that drives innovation and creates a community where all feel welcome and a part of something amazing.

We offer highly competitive benefits and a flexible work environment where contributions are recognized and rewarded. To see more about our benefits, visit https://gdmissionsystems.com/careers/why-work-for-us/benefits

EOE/Disability/Veteran


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