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Program Manager Defense Jobs in Oklahoma (NOW HIRING)

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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 Oklahoma?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Program Manager Defense job openings in Oklahoma as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.

Technical Program Manager - Training Devices IPT

Oklahoma City, OK โ€ข On-site

Long Wave, Inc.
Manufacturingย โ€ขย 51 - 200 employees

$119K - $154K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

***Active DoD Security Clearance Preferred***
***US Citizenship Required***
***NO VISA SUPPORT or C2C***
***On-site in OKC Required***
Position Summary
The Technical Program Manager for the Training Devices Integrated Product Team (IPT) will lead the design, development, integration, and delivery of training devices and simulators ranging from part-task trainers to full mission simulators. This role requires technical breadth, leadership, and strong Earned Value Management System (EVMS) driven program control.
Key Responsibilities
  • Lead the Training Devices IPT, ensuring all products and deliverables meet schedule, cost, and technical requirements.
  • Lead multi-disciplinary teams (systems engineering, software, hardware, and manufacturing) and coordinate with engineering, logistics, quality, and customer stakeholders.
  • Develop and maintain program schedules, budgets, and Earned Value Management System (EVMS) reporting, including variance analysis and corrective action planning, serving as Control Account Manager (CAM) for assigned control accounts.
  • Manage program risks and opportunities and maintain technical baselines.
  • Ensure configuration control, versioning, and product-change alignment across all products and deliverables.
  • Coordinate integration, test, validation, and acceptance milestones.
  • Plan and manage SDRL deliverables to their governing DIDs, including submittal, review, and disposition of customer comments.
  • Manage suppliers and subcontractors, including oversight of cost, schedule, technical performance, risk management, and compliance with program requirements.
  • Facilitate program reviews, status updates, and communication across all levels.
  • Conduct internal and customer reviews and drive timely incorporation of feedback.
  • Drive continuous improvement and ensure compliance with program and organizational processes.
  • Travel approximately 25% of the time (about one week per month) to customer, supplier, integration, and test sites, with additional travel as program needs require.

Basic Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in engineering, technical communications, business, project management, or related field.
  • 5-8 years of technical or program management experience.
  • Proven leadership of an IPT or cross-functional / engineering project team.
  • Strong understanding and practical use of EVMS, including Control Account Manager (CAM) experience.
  • Strong communication, leadership, and stakeholder-management skills, including the ability to translate technical content for varied audiences.
  • Experience managing suppliers or subcontractors, including tracking performance and resolving issues.
  • S. citizenship required.
  • Active DoD Secret security clearance, or the ability to obtain one.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with military or defense (DoD) programs; training-system program experience preferred.
  • Experience in training development, instructional systems design, or product lifecycle management.
  • Experience managing technical publications for aerospace, defense, or complex hardware/software systems.
  • Familiarity with S1000D, MIL-STD formatting, or other structured documentation standards.
  • Experience with digital pubs, interactive electronic technical manuals (IETMs), or XML-based systems.
  • Experience developing training devices, simulators, or complex integrated systems.
  • Familiarity with systems engineering processes (requirements, integration, V&V).
  • Familiarity with Agile program execution or hybrid program models.
  • PMP, PMI-ACP, INCOSE ASEP/CSEP, or similar project management or systems engineering certification.

Position Benefits:
As a full-time employee of Long Wave, you are eligible for our benefits package including:
  • Competitive Salary
  • Medical, Dental & Vision coverage
  • 401k
  • Educational Assistance
  • Life Insurance
  • Employee Assistance Programs & Work/Life Solutions
  • Paid Time Off
  • This position's standard work schedule is a 9/80. The 9/80 schedule allows employees who work a nine-hour day Monday through Thursday to take every other Friday off.

EOE AA M/F/Vet/Disability