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Program Manager Defense Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Hornet Acquisition Co LLC

Program Manager

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$150K - $170K/yr

This role requires direct interaction with major defense OEMs (domestic and international) and ... Monitor and manage program KPIs, including schedule adherence, cost performance, backlog, and on ...

StaffingForce

Program Manager

Carson, CA

$130K - $150K/yr

This position requires strong leadership, communication, financial management, and program execution skills within a manufacturing, aerospace, defense, or similar high-complexity environment. Key ...

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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 California? For Program Manager Defense jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Program Manager Defense jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Program Manager Defense jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Program Manager Defense jobs? Cities in California with the most Program Manager Defense job openings:
Program Manager Defense jobs near you
Infographic showing various Program Manager Defense job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution.

Key Account Manager Defense

Henkel AG & Co. KGaA

Irvine, CA • Remote

Other

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

About this Position AtHenkel, you'll be part of an organization that's shaping the future throughinnovation, sustainability and collaboration. With our trusted brands likePersil, 'all, Loctite, Snuggle, and Schwarzkopf and our cutting-edgetechnologies, you'll have countless opportunities to explore new paths andgrow.
Thisposition is with our Adhesive Technologies business unit - where we empower ourpeople to transform industries and provide our customers with a competitiveadvantage through adhesives, sealants and functional coatings.
Dare to learn new skills, advance in your career andmake an impact at Henkel. What youll do
  • The Key Account Manager, a remote position, is responsible for building and growing business relationships with high opportunity emerging defense and aerospace accounts
  • Implement new customer acquisition plans & develop customer-specific success metrics beyond revenue (e.g., innovation impact)
  • Demonstrate and communicate technical knowledge of aerospace-grade materials, their specifications and application, an understanding of quality and compliance requirements, and forecast management
  • Leverage understanding of emerging defense technologies (CCAs, UAS, autonomous systems, counter-UAS, hypersonics, advanced materials) to identify new customer materials opportunities
  • Serve as the primary point of contact between Henkel and Customer across departments (procurement, engineering, quality, supply chain, etc.)
  • Develop and build long-term strategic plan tailored to Customer's business goals and production plan e.g. Defense platforms
  • Identifies opportunities to expand the relationship through new product offerings, innovations, or process improvements
  • Internal champion of Customer needs within the Henkel cross-functional organization, ensuring alignment and responsiveness
  • Builds strong relationships with Customer stakeholders in supply chain, program, and engineering
  • Translates customer's strategy and priorities into a joint innovation roadmap
  • Facilitate executive-level meetings and Business Reviews to maintain alignment
  • Effectively manages escalations, delivery issues, or quality concerns with professionalism and urgency
  • On-Time Delivery & Quality Performance management through KPI tracking and ensuring performance meets Customer's needs
  • Oversees pricing agreements, long-term contracts (LTAs), and terms & condition negotiations
  • Uses analytics and forecasting tools to anticipate customer needs and add strategic value

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