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Program Manager Defense Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

Senior Program Manager

Winfield, KS · On-site

$60K - $100K/yr

The Program Manager is responsible for coordinating and overseeing customer programs from inception ... Experience in aerospace, defense, or medical device manufacturing. * Working knowledge of CAD/CAM ...

Technical Program Manager

Leawood, KS · On-site

$125K - $162K/yr

They are seeking a Technical Program Manager who will collaborate with engineers and data experts ... S. defense readiness and ensure effective decision-making through innovative data usage.

Manager, Liability Program Job Purpose The Liability Program Manager serves as a subject matter ... Oversee the selection, engagement, and performance of defense counsel in coordination with the TPA ...

Demonstrated experience in federal, defense, or government program environments including DoD installation management, military construction (MILCON), base operations, or logistics/industrial ...

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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 Kansas? For Program Manager Defense jobs in Kansas, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Spirit Defense - Program Control Manager

Spirit Defense - Program Control Manager

Spirit AeroSystems

Wichita, KS • On-site

$95K - $146K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Posted 4 days ago


Spirit AeroSystems rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 84 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

36th of 60 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Overview
This role is at Spirit AeroSystems, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of The Boeing Company, at Spirit's Defense Business Unit ("Spirit Defense"). Spirit Defense is an independent supplier to the defense and space marketplace. Through innovative engineering and rapid prototyping excellence, Spirit Defense provides the capabilities, technologies and support customers need to succeed in their missions.
Responsibilities
Position Responsibilities:
  • Provide direct supervision activities, including completion of performance goals and reviews, assigning work scope to employees, reviewing and approving timecards, and ensuring employees operate according to company policies and procedures
  • Develop employee skills and evaluate employee performance on assigned responsibilities, including: Earned Value Management Systems (EVMS) implementation and analysis; support and guidance to PMs and CAMs; analysis and preparation of cost and schedule reports;
  • development, analysis and review of EACs; variance analysis research and reporting; and reconciliations to SAP
  • Support Integrated Baseline Reviews (IBR) and Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA) Joint Surveillance Reviews (JSR) audits
  • Responsible for ensuring contract deliverables are completed and submitted on a timely manner (CFSR, CSDR, IPMR, CWBS)
  • Focus team on achieving uncompromising quality in all products and services, accountability and team performance.
  • Ensure team fully understands their roles and impact on financial results
  • Act as the primary interface with the program office, functional leadership, and external auditing agencies regarding EVMS related tasks/efforts, requirements, issues, analysis, and performance measures
  • Support proposal preparation, fact-finding and contract negotiations as needed to ensure cost management issues are represented
  • Act as primary point of contact with customer counterpart, and maintain a positive working relationship to improve communication and stay on top of any potential cost and/or schedule issues
  • Perform in a fast paced, frequently changing, and demand driven environment
  • Ability to travel up to 10% as business needs dictate

This position is expected to be 100% onsite. The selected candidate will be required to work onsite at our Wichita, KS, location
Qualifications
Basic Qualifications (Required Skills and Experience):
  • Bachelor's degree in accounting, business, finance, or related field
  • 5+ years of related accounting, business, and/or finance experience
  • 2+ years of experience developing and presenting business strategies, financial information, and/or risk assessments to leadership teams
  • Ability to obtain a U.S. Secret Security Clearance and Special Program Access (for which the U.S. Government requires U.S. Citizenship)

Preferred Qualifications (Desired Skills/Experience):
  • Active U.S. Secret Security Clearance and Special Program Access
  • Master's degree in business (MBA)
  • Experience leading a team, either as a lead, functional manager, or matrix manager
  • Extensive knowledge of Earned Value Management Systems (EVMS) and financial analysis
  • Working knowledge of EVMS Software (i.e. MPM or Cobra), SAP, Microsoft Office Suite and Accounting principles
  • Strong analytical skills
  • Experience in Aerospace and/or Defense programs and familiarity with Integrated Program Management Report (IPMR) and/or Integrated Program Management Data and Analysis Report (IPMDAR)
  • Advanced proficiency in Earned Value Management Systems (EVMS) such as Deltek Cobra and MPM, and accounting systems such as SAP
  • Experience interfacing with government audit agencies such as DCMA and DCAA, as well as Internal Audit

Drug Free Workplace:
We are a Drug Free Workplace where post offer applicants and employees are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol when criteria is met as outlined in our policies.
Pay & Benefits:
We strive to deliver a Total Rewards package that will attract, engage and retain the top talent. Elements of the Total Rewards package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities.
We also provide eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work.
The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.
Pay is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
Summary Pay Range: $95,520- $146,050
Kansas Tax Credit: Join Spirit AeroSystems' Kansas team and you may be eligible for a $5,000 state of Kansas Aviation tax credit for up to five years. Click here for more information on the tax credit.
Security Clearance:
This position requires the ability to obtain a U.S. Security Clearance for which the U.S. Government requires U.S. Citizenship. An interim and/or final U.S. Secret Clearance Post-Start is required.
Visa Sponsorship:
Employer will not sponsor applicants for employment visa status.

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