1

Program Manager Defense Jobs in Connecticut (NOW HIRING)

We are looking for a remote Program Manager for our Aerospace and Defense. This position is part time, 20hrs a week through October, before transitioning to full time, 40hrs a week. This is a ...

... defense to commercial and industrial markets. As the company transitions from R&D to ... LiquidPiston is seeking a highly driven Program Manager to lead and execute complex development ...

Program Manager - Engine Development This role is fully onsite in Bloomfield, CT, five days per ... defense to commercial and industrial markets. As the company transitions from R&D to ...

Program Manager - Engine Development This role is fully onsite in Bloomfield, CT, five days per ... defense to commercial and industrial markets. As the company transitions from R&D to ...

Senior Program Manager

Danbury, CT · On-site

$118K - $119K/yr

Experience managing aerospace/defense programs as a prime or subcontractor preferred * Strong written, verbal, and presentation skills U.S. Citizenship required. This position may require an active ...

Senior Program Manager

Danbury, CT · On-site

$120 - $160/hr

Experience managing aerospace/defense programs as a prime or subcontractor preferred * Strong written, verbal, and presentation skills U.S. Citizenship required. This position may require an active ...

Bachelor's of science degree in engineering, finance or business management * 10+ years of experience in the department of defense (DoD) and space industry * 5 - 7 years direct Program Manager ...

Bachelor's of science degree in engineering, finance or business management * 10+ years of experience in the department of defense (DoD) and space industry * 5 - 7 years direct Program Manager ...

Senior Program Manager

Danbury, CT · Hybrid

$118K - $119K/yr

Experience managing aerospace/defense programs as a prime or subcontractor preferred * Strong written, verbal, and presentation skills U.S. Citizenship required. This position may require an active ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

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 Connecticut?

For Program Manager Defense jobs in Connecticut, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Connecticut are hiring for Program Manager Defense jobs?

Cities in Connecticut with the most Program Manager Defense job openings:

Infographic showing various Program Manager Defense job openings in Connecticut as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.

Program Manager

HKA Enterprises

East Hartford, CT • On-site

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 10 days ago


Job description


We are looking for a remote Program Manager for our Aerospace and Defense. This position is part time, 20hrs a week through October, before transitioning to full time, 40hrs a week. This is a long-term opportunity.
The Digital Technologies (DT) Program Manager (PM) will join their Project Manager Office (PMO). This Program Manager will provide multi-mode value delivery, including traditional project management, Agile product delivery, and operational/project financial analysis services. This role will focus on large and complex projects in their portfolio supporting Supply Chain and Quality.
The projects are primarily on application development, integrations and enhancements, and modernization. Many are SaaS software implementations & customizations. We also execute infrastructure projects and business process improvements with a digital slant.
Core Responsibilities:
  • Lead & drive large-scale, complex DT projects, showing up with a proactive, entrepreneurial, demonstrating a strong sense of urgency and ownership, as if you were investing your own money in the project's results.
  • Understand and support the Strategic Vision of the organization and ensure strategic alignment as a trusted advisor.
  • Foster trust and build collaborative relationships with digital and functional executive sponsors, ensuring a deep understanding of their strategic interests & viewpoints.
  • Ability to seamlessly navigate the political landscape amongst senior leaders in the function and DT.
  • Oversee all the normal PM fundamentals: project schedule, key decisions, resources, financials, requirements, issues, risks, dependencies.
  • Drive the project's delivery cadence and maintain momentum and accountability, blending agile & waterfall techniques as needed.
  • Continuously demonstrate progress, provide status reports/briefings. Create compelling materials to effectively communicate with senior/executive leaders the value delivery story for the project.
  • Efficiently shepherd your projects through our phase-gated project governance framework. Maintain the team's focus on critical cyber, architecture, and compliance artifacts and secure relevant approvals at each gate.

Required Skills & Qualifications:
  • Must be a US Citizen
  • Typically a university degree and 10 years prior relevant experience OR an Advanced Degree in related field and minimum 7 years' experience OR in absence of a degree, 14+ years of relevant experience is required
  • 5+ years of experience with Program Management oversight of DT software development or infrastructure initiatives.
  • 5+ years of proven experience managing large scale projects involving complex enterprise systems, such as ERP, SAP, Data Repository, or Engineering systems.
  • 5+ years of a demonstrated ability to interface and collaborate with concurrent Enterprise projects, managing dependencies, resources, and schedule.
  • 5+ years of experience building and managing schedules in Planview

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience working in a government and/or large, complex corporate/industrial environment.
  • Expert in creating visually appealing, executive-level PowerPoint presentations.
  • Experience developing & managing SAP Integration projects
  • Experience with integrating multiple project methodologies including waterfall & Agile frameworks like SAFe.
  • Project Management certification (PMP, etc.), Scrum Certification and SAFe or similar agile certifications.

Additional Information
HKA Enterprises is a global workforce solutions firm. If you're seeking a new career opportunity or project experience, our recruiters will work to understand your qualifications, experience, and personal goals. At HKA, we recognize the importance of matching employee goals with those of the employer. We strive to seek credibility, satisfaction, and endorsement from all of our applicants. We invite you to take time and search for your next career experience with us! HKA is an EEO Employer who participates in the US Citizenship and Immigration Services E-Verify Program.
Meet Your Recruiter
Elizabeth Spicer
HKA Enterprises is a global workforce solutions firm. If you're seeking a new career opportunity or project experience, our recruiters will work to understand your qualifications, experience, and personal goals. At HKA, we recognize the importance of matching employee goals with those of the employer. We strive to seek credibility, satisfaction, and endorsement from all of our applicants. We invite you to take time and search for your next career experience with us! HKA is an EEO Employer who participates in the US Citizenship and Immigration Services E-Verify Program.

HKA Enterprises logo

About HKA Enterprises

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Fingerville, SC, US

Year founded

1977