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Program Manager Defense Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Specialist, Program Management Job Code: 41971 Job Location: Cincinnati, OH Schedule: 4/10: ... L3Harris Defense Electronic Systems (DES), a division of L3Harris, provides precision electronic ...

... Defense contracts. By focusing on continual improvement, our services remain at the forefront of ... SierTeK Ltd. is seeking a Program Manager (Junior, Journeyman & Senior) to support an opportunity ...

Audit Defense: * The customer is an audit heavy environment, so need experience in audit defense in ... program management, with at least 5 years specifically managing DoD Federal Contracts. Our Equal ...

Lead Program Manager

Dayton, OH · On-site

$147K - $200K/yr

Lead Program Manager The Sensors Division at STR focuses on technology development for advanced ... At STR, Defense Systems Researchers study complex defense technologies and systems by developing ...

New

... defense. This is a full-time opportunity at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base (AFB), OH ... Provides expert-level oversight of program and functional managers across a broad portfolio of ...

... defense. This is a full-time opportunity at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base (AFB), OH ... Provides expert-level oversight of program and functional managers across a broad portfolio of ...

Apogee is looking for a talented Senior Program Manager Tech to support the National Air and Space ... defense. This is a full-time opportunity at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base (AFB), OH.

Program Manager

Fairborn, OH · On-site

$110K - $150K/yr

Program Manager Fairborn, OH Our client is dedicated to providing the highest quality of services ... We are proud to be the primary partner to top companies in the automotive, aerospace, and defense ...

Background in engineering, manufacturing, aerospace, defense, or other highly regulated industries preferred * Strong understanding of program management principles, including planning, monitoring ...

The Program Manager drives all aspects of Hunt Valve's customer service relationship with designated shipyard customers, including US government entities such as Defense Logistics Agency & NAVSUP ...

Experience supporting Department of Defense (DoD), Air Force, or Federal Government contracts. * Experience managing healthcare, education, or military training programs. * Knowledge of military ...

Showing results 21-40

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 Ohio?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Program Manager Defense job openings in Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.

Program Manager

KBR

Wright-patterson Air Force Base, OH

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago


KBR rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 48 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

143rd of 449 rated engineering


Job description

Title:

Program Manager

Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR!

KBR's National Security Solutions team provides high-end engineering and advanced technology solutions to our customers in the intelligence and national security communities. In this position, your work will have a profound impact on the country's most critical role - protecting our national security.

Why Join Us?

  • Innovative Projects: KBR's work is at the forefront of engineering, logistics, operations, science, program management, mission IT and cybersecurity solutions.
  • Collaborative Environment: Be part of a dynamic team that thrives on collaboration and innovation, fostering a supportive and intellectually stimulating workplace.
  • Impactful Work: Your contributions will be pivotal in designing and optimizing defense systems that ensure national security and shape the future of space defense.

Position Summary:

KBR, Inc is seeking a highly capable and organized Program Manager to join our team in Beavercreek, OH. This role supports the acquisition activities and team support functions enabling development and fielding of autonomy collaborative platform frameworks and software.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Investigate, analyze, plan, design, develop, implement, or evaluate solutions for project / program efforts.
  • Track action items, manage taskers, and support oversight boards to maintain operational cadence.
  • Be able to perform work measurement studies, program or operations efficiency reviews, cost studies, or workload change impact analyses.
  • Provide expert-level issue resolution and recommendation support to achieve desired program outcomes.
  • Recommend and refine detailed operational requirements for emerging autonomous systems.
  • Mentor USG and contractor team members and collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive project success.
  • Provide strategic insights and instill best practices for growth/scalability to a fast-paced USAF RDT&E and acquisition team.
  • Assist USG Program Managers and Senior Military Leader with acquisition planning, documentation, and milestone decision support across programs enabling development and fielding of autonomous system solutions.
  • Provide strategic planning support to align program initiatives with government priorities and long-term mission goals.
  • Support budget & resource management objectives throughout the program lifecycle, assist with the management of the program budget, monitor expenditures, and ensure efficient resource allocation across the program.
  • Ensure compliance and provide governance/control for all program activities adhering to federal laws, procurement regulations (e.g., FAR), and internal and Air Force policies.
  • Facilitate stakeholder engagement by acting as a primary liaison between senior Air Force and other government officials, contractors, and community partners.
  • Manage risk by identifying, prioritizing, mitigating, and taking corrective measures against planning, development, technical, strategic, and programmatic risks that could impact program schedule. cost, or performance.
  • Evaluate performance by establishing metrics and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to measure program progress and success and drive continuous improvement.
  • Align the program deliverables to the government objectives
  • Manage the main program documentation such as the CDRLs

Work Environment:

  • Location: On-site
  • Travel Requirements: Minimal. Up to one trip per quarter.
  • Working Hours: 40 hrs/week.

Qualifications:

Required:

  • Proven ability to recommend, embrace, and implement change in a fast-paced, high-performing organization.
  • Ability to lead diverse cross-functional teams and influence stakeholders without direct authority.
  • Minimum 15 years of experience in acquisition or program management roles with a focus on schedule, cost, and performance and proven track record in managing and delivery complex, strategic projects.
  • Demonstrated management and leadership skills in a collaborative environment. Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills and proven ability to work effectively within all organizational levels, including senior DoD leadership.
  • Experience in designing and developing complex systems of systems and enterprise-level architectures.
  • Excellence in technical briefing, reporting to leadership, and navigating complex bureaucratic environments.
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Aeronautics, Applied Math, Logistics, Business, Finance, or related field.
  • Active Secret with SAP/SAR eligibility; Top Secret eligible

Desired:

  • Familiarity with existing autonomy-based DoD open standards and reference architectures, such as Open Mission Systems (OMS) and Autonomy-Government Reference Architecture (A-GRA).
  • Advanced Degree or Certification: Master's degree or PMP certification preferred (Highly Desirable).
  • DoD Acquisition Experience: Familiarity with DoD acquisition processes and documentation. Experience or extensive knowledge in large-scale USG software acquisition program(s) such as the Software Acquisition Pathway.
  • DoD Development or Operations Experience: Prior military operational flight experience or work within a relevant Air Force tactical aircraft environment.
  • Tool Proficiency: Experience with Jira, Confluence, SharePoint, and Microsoft Teams.
  • Process Improvement: Ability to streamline workflows and improve team efficiency.
  • Leadership Experience: Prior supervisory or team lead experience in a government or defense setting.
  • Active TS/SCI clearance with SAP/SAR eligibility.

Ready to Make a Difference?

If you're excited about making a significant impact in the field of space defense and working on projects that matter, we encourage you to apply and join our team at KBR. Let's shape the future together.

KBR Benefits

KBR offers a selection of competitive lifestyle benefits which could include 401K plan with company match, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, AD&D, flexible spending account, disability, paid time off, or flexible work schedule. We support career advancement through professional training and development.

Belong, Connect and Grow at KBR
At KBR, we are passionate about our people and our Zero Harm culture. These inform all that we do and are at the heart of our commitment to, and ongoing journey toward being a People First company. That commitment is central to our team of team's philosophy and fosters an environment where everyone can Belong, Connect and Grow. We Deliver - Together.

KBR is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, veteran status, genetic information, union status and/or beliefs, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.


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About KBR

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At KBR, we partner with government and industry clients to provide purposeful and comprehensive solutions with an emphasis on efficiency and safety. With a full portfolio of services, proprietary technologies and expertise, our employees are ready to handle projects and missions from planning and design to sustainability and maintenance. Whether at the bottom of the ocean or in outer space, our clients trust us to deliver the impossible on a daily basis.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Houston, TX, US

Year founded

1998