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Program Manager Defense Jobs in Connecticut (NOW HIRING)

Leonardo DRS

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 ...

New

Pratt & Whitney

CORE Program Manager

East Hartford, CT

$114K/yr

Not Required At RTX, the world largest aerospace and defense company, 185,000 great minds are ... Manage and aid in deploying digital technology resources to improve metrics that are lagging with ...

Leonardo DRS

Program Scheduler

Bethel, CT · On-site

Join our Program Management Office (PMO) in Danbury, CT, where you'll play a critical role in supporting complex defense programs that help advance national security. As a Program Scheduler, you will ...

Leonardo DRS

Program Scheduler

Danbury, CT · Hybrid

Join our Program Management Office (PMO) in Danbury, CT, where you'll play a critical role in supporting complex defense programs that help advance national security. As a Program Scheduler, you will ...

Leonardo DRS

Program Scheduler

Bethel, CT · Hybrid

Join our Program Management Office (PMO) in Danbury, CT, where you'll play a critical role in supporting complex defense programs that help advance national security. As a Program Scheduler, you will ...

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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 Connecticut? For Program Manager Defense jobs in Connecticut, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Program Manager Defense jobs in Connecticut look for? The top searched job categories for Program Manager Defense jobs in Connecticut are:
What cities in Connecticut are hiring for Program Manager Defense jobs? Cities in Connecticut with the most Program Manager Defense job openings:
Program Manager Defense jobs near you
Infographic showing various Program Manager Defense job openings in Connecticut as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution.
Senior Program Manager

Senior Program Manager

Leonardo DRS

Danbury, CT • Hybrid

$118K - $119K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New

Leonardo DRS rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 55 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

131st of 528 rated manufacturers

Job description

Job ID: 114948 

The Leonardo DRS Naval Power Systems business is a trusted provider of innovative naval gas and hybrid power systems, control technology and support solutions for the U.S. Navy and navies around the world.

Job Summary

The Senior Program Manager will manage and direct the daily execution of contract requirements to ensure cost, schedule, and performance objectives are achieved. Lead and support Integrated Product Team (IPT) and project meetings from program kickoff through closeout. Serve as the primary interface for internal and external customers, ensuring effective communication, coordination, and issue resolution related to existing contracts. Lead and/or support bid and proposal activities, including planning, development, and execution to support business growth and program success. 

Job Responsibilities
  • Manage day-to-day contract execution to ensure cost, schedule, and performance objectives are achieved  
  • Lead Integrated Product Team activities and program meetings from kickoff through closeout  
  • Serve as primary customer interface and coordinate with internal stakeholders to resolve program and contractual issues  
  • Lead or support bid and proposal efforts and identify new business opportunities in partnership with Business Development  
  • Develop and manage program plans, schedules, budgets, and resources; provide regular status updates to senior management  
  • Identify, assess, and mitigate program risks; implement corrective actions and escalate issues as needed  
  • Support contract negotiations and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and company policies  
  • Perform cost, schedule, and variance analysis, including earned value management reporting  
  • Provide leadership to cross-functional teams to ensure alignment, communication, and successful program execution  
  • Drive continuous improvement, planning effectiveness, and timely program closeout, including documentation and financial performance
Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Finance, Supply Chain, Business, or related field, or equivalent experience  
  • 7+ years project or program management experience 
  • Knowledge of program management tools, processes, and full program lifecycle execution  
  • Strong leadership, problem-solving, and customer interface skills  
  • Experience with risk management, scheduling, budgeting, and manpower planning  
  • Familiarity with earned value management, financial reporting, and variance analysis  
  • Cross-functional knowledge of engineering, finance, contracting, manufacturing, logistics, and supply chain  
  • 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 DOD security clearance or the ability to obtain such clearance within a reasonable time after commencement of employment.

Taking care of our people is a top priority at Leonardo DRS. We are proud to offer competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, a company contribution to a health savings account, telemedicine, life and disability insurance, legal insurance, and a 401(k) savings plan. We champion wellness programs that focus on physical, emotional, and financial well-being. We develop our talent by offering programs and activities to support career-growth, professional development, and skill enhancement. And we understand there is more to life than work, and the importance of offering flexible work schedules with our 9/80 program, competitive vacation, health/emergency leave, paid parental leave, and community service hours. 

Leonardo DRS, Inc. and its subsidiaries provide equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

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