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Program Manager Defense Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Moog, Inc.

Program Manager

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$140K - $165K/yr

Our Space and Defense Group is looking for a Program Manager to join our team in Goleta, CA. This is a cross-functional role that requires coordination between many different groups within and ...

Terran Orbital Corporation

Program Manager

Irvine, CA · On-site

$140K - $175K/yr

... defense and commercial missions. We are a unique, fast growing, and trusted team dedicated to ... The Program Manager owns the customer relationship, organizes internal engineering, manages ...

Moog

Program Manager

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$140K - $165K/yr

Our Space and Defense Group is looking for a Program Manager to join our teamin Goleta, CA. This is a cross-functional role that requires coordination between many different groups within and outside ...

Na Oiwi Kane

Program Manager, SME

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

The ideal candidate has extensive experience managing large-scale defense programs, leading multidisciplinary teams, and delivering enterprise IT and service management solutions. This position ...

Systems Planning and Analysis

Program Manager

San Diego, CA · On-site

$190K - $230K/yr

... Australian Defense Force. Our primary objective is to provide timely, objective and analytic ... SPA is seeking a Program Manager to lead critical Navy work in San Diego. #MC Responsibilities The ...

Systems Planning and Analysis

Program Manager

San Diego, CA · On-site

$190K - $230K/yr

... Australian Defense Force. Our primary objective is to provide timely, objective and analytic ... SPA is seeking a Program Manager to lead critical Navy work in San Diego. #MC Responsibilities The ...

Scout AI

Senior Program Manager

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$136K - $136K/yr

The future of defense will be decided by those who field intelligent machines at scale. At Scout AI ... The Role We are looking for a Senior Program Manager, Government Programs who will help win ...

Scout AI

Senior Program Manager

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$165K - $180K/yr

The future of defense will be decided by those who field intelligent machines at scale. At Scout AI ... The Role We are looking for a Senior Program Manager, Government Programs who will help win ...

Canopy A&D

Program Manager

Ontario, CA · On-site

... Aerospace, Defense, and Space sectors. Our commitment to quality, innovation, and customer ... Serving as a critical link between the Program Management Office (PMO) and Production, you will own ...

Canopy A&D

Program Manager

Ontario, CA · On-site

... Aerospace, Defense, and Space sectors. Our commitment to quality, innovation, and customer ... Serving as a critical link between the Program Management Office (PMO) and Production, you will own ...

Canopy A&D

Program Manager

Irvine, CA · On-site

... Aerospace, Defense, and Space sectors. Our commitment to quality, innovation, and customer ... Serving as a critical link between the Program Management Office (PMO) and Production, you will own ...

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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 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 75% In-person, and 25% Remote job distribution.

Program Manager

Moog, Inc.

Santa Barbara, CA • On-site

$140K - $165K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Moog Inc. rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 61 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

250th of 494 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

Moog is a performance culture that empowers people to achieve great things. Our people enjoy solving interesting technical challenges in a culture where everyone trusts each other to do the right thing. For you, working with us can mean deeper job satisfaction, better rewards, and a great quality of life inside and outside of work.
Job Title:
Program Manager
Reporting To:
Manager, Sustainment
Work Schedule:
Onsite - Santa Barbara, CA
Moog Space and Defense Group provides sub-systems and components for every mission critical system on a modern military vehicle. Our heritage is in electrohydraulic and electromechanical actuation systems and now, through acquisitions and internal development of full Turreted Weapon Systems (TWS) solutions.
Our Space and Defense Group is looking for a Program Manager to join our team in Goleta, CA. This is a cross-functional role that requires coordination between many different groups within and outside of Moog.
Here's what you'll need to bring with you:
  • Bachelor's degree in a business or technical field, preferably Engineering.
  • 5 years of prior experience in engineering, supply chain, or operations or similar in the manufacturing of products for the aerospace or defense industries or other highly engineered manufacturing environments.
  • Lead, organize, and influence people through outstanding communication and facilitation skills; all while demonstrating strong awareness of emotional intelligence.
  • Ability to efficiently present program information to customers and internal management; ability to navigate high pressure situations.
  • Proficiency with MS Project required.
  • Experience managing multiple programs simultaneously preferred.
  • Experience managing Development Programs is a plus.
  • Knowledge of project management tools including Earned Value Management is a plus.
  • Experience working with DoD customers; knowledge of DoD contractual terms, conditions and requirements a plus.
  • PMI PMP certification is a plus.

The Program Manager is responsible for overseeing multiple production or development initiatives, typically valued between $1-$12 million. This role encompasses developing comprehensive plans for each assigned program and directing execution through Moog's functional departments to ensure fulfillment of contractual requirements, as well as achievement of performance and profitability objectives. Serving as the primary point of contact for the customer, the Program Manager manages all program-related communications, delivers required reports to both the client and Moog leadership, and coordinates internal updates to ensure alignment and transparency across the organization.
As a Program Manager, you will...
  • Develop program plans and schedules to ensure coordination between all program elements. Monitor the status of cost, schedule, and task completion to ensure compliance with program plans.
  • Coordinate with functional management to ensure the assignment of program resources.
  • Conduct day-to-day communications with the customer to resolve outstanding issues in a timely manner.
  • Coordinate and manage all program activities to ensure compliance with contract requirements.
  • Plan, coordinate and manage the preparation of presentation materials for internal and customer meetings and reviews. Manage the conduct of such meetings and reviews.
  • Prepare regular status reports, for management and the customer, which provide visibility for program issues and risks.
  • Assist in the preparation of proposals and change orders, and support fact-finding and negotiations to ensure completeness from a program management viewpoint.
  • Travel up to 10%

How We Care for You:
  • Financial Rewards: great compensation package, bonus opportunities, matching 401k, and the ability to participate in Employee Stock Purchase Plan (select locations), Flexible Spending and Health Savings Accounts
  • Work/Life Balance: Flexible paid time off, holidays and parental leave program, relocation assistance.
  • Health & Welfare: Comprehensive insurance coverage including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, Employee Assistance Plan ("EAP") and other supplemental benefit coverages.
  • Professional Skills Development: Tuition Assistance, mentorship and coaching opportunities, leadership development and other personal growth programs
  • Culture: Warm, respectful, family-like environment driven by our 12 core values. Multiple Employee Resource Groups led by our employees, open and welcoming to all.

#LI-KM
Salary Range Transparency:
Santa Barbara, CA $140,000.00-$165,000.00 Annually
Salary Range Disclaimer
The base salary range represents the low and high end of the Moog salary range for this position in the given work location. Actual salaries will vary depending on factors including but not limited to location, experience, and performance. The range(s) listed is just one component of Moog's total compensation package for employees. Other rewards may include annual bonuses, employee stock purchase plan, an open paid time off policy, and many region-specific benefits.
This position requires access to U.S. export-controlled information.
EOE/AA Minority/Female/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/Disability/Veteran
Moog offers an exclusive workplace, and, as such, affirms the right of every person to participate in all aspects of employment based on merit without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, citizenship, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic. If you are interested in applying for employment and need special assistance or an accommodation to apply for a posted position, contact our Human Resources department via phone at 844-367-5787.
No unsolicited agency submittals please. Agency partners must be invited to participate in a search by our Talent Acquisition Team and have signed terms in place prior to any submittal. Absent compliance with these pre-conditions resumes submitted directly to any Moog Inc. employee or affiliate will not qualify for fee payment, and therefore become the property of Moog Inc.

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About Moog

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Founded in 1951 with the invention of the servo valve by Bill Moog, a breakthrough in motion control systems, Moog Inc. (NYSE: MOG.A and MOG.B) has evolved into a global leader in motion control parts and systems. Headquartered in East Aurora, NY, we serve customers in over 90 countries, with operations spanning more than 27 countries and a dedicated workforce of nearly 13,000 professionals. Our organization comprises three operating groups: Aircraft, Industrial, and Space and Defense. Our high-performance systems drive military and commercial aircraft, satellites, launch vehicles, missiles, industrial machinery, marine, and medical equipment. At Moog, our focus lies in crafting high-performance solutions to solve the most challenging technical problems for our customers. Beyond technical prowess, Moog fosters a performance culture empowering employees to achieve greatness. Our team thrives on tackling engaging technical challenges within a culture of trust, offering rewarding job experiences and a fulfilling work-life balance.

Industry

Aviation

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

East Aurora, NY, US

Year founded

1951

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