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Program Manager Defense Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Synergy BIS

Senior Program Manager

$115K - $116K/yr

Synergy seeks a highly qualified Senior Program Manager with extensive Department of Defense (DoD) experience to organize, direct, and manage all aspects of complex IT contract operational support.

Defense Unicorns

Senior Technical Recruiter

OR · On-site +1

Guiding hiring managers and interviewers through the recruitment process with consistent and ... programs to strengthen Defense Unicorns' employer brand and long-term recruiting efforts.

Defense Unicorns

Mission Director - Army

OR · On-site +1

$290K - $370K/yr

... Defense Unicorns, you will manage program operations, focusing on ensuring customer retention, satisfaction, long-term success, and account expansion within the Army domain. This role emphasizes ...

SOSi

SCA Analytic Linguist

Portland, OR · On-site

$35.25 - $37.75/hr

... defense and government services industry. We deliver tailored solutions, tested leadership, and ... Maintain regular communication with the program manager and keeping them informed of available ...

SOSi

SCA Analytic Linguist

Portland, OR · On-site

$35.25 - $37.75/hr

... defense and government services industry. We deliver tailored solutions, tested leadership, and ... Maintain regular communication with the program manager and keeping them informed of available ...

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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 Oregon?

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

What job categories do people searching Program Manager Defense jobs in Oregon look for?

The top searched job categories for Program Manager Defense jobs in Oregon are:

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

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

Program Manager Defense jobs near you
Infographic showing various Program Manager Defense job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.

Director/Senior Manager, Defense & Military Programs Business Development

Tualatin, OR • On-site, Remote

Ascentec Engineering
See more jobs at Ascentec Engineeringexternal

$130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Ascentec Engineering is seeking an experienced Director or Senior Manager of Business Development - Defense & Military Programs to lead the company's strategic growth initiatives within the U.S. defense and military markets. This individual will be responsible for identifying, developing, and securing new business opportunities with prime contractors, government agencies, and defense-related customers.
The candidate must have an established network within the defense industry, a strong understanding of military procurement processes, and a proven track record of winning manufacturing programs involving precision-machined components, complex assemblies, and advanced manufacturing technologies. Experience supporting defense, naval weapons systems, munitions and missile systems, space, and satellite markets is highly desirable.
This role will serve as the key member of the commercial leadership team and help position Ascentec as a preferred manufacturing partner for defense and military applications.
This position is U.S. Based, preferably near key defense hubs. Anticipated travel is 30-50%. This position is not eligible for Visa sponsorship or transfer of Visa sponsorship.
Requirements
Strategic Business Development:
  • Develop and execute a multi-year defense market growth strategy aligned with company objectives.
  • Identify, qualify, and pursue opportunities with:
  • Prime defense contractors
  • Tier 1 defense suppliers
  • Department of Defense organizations
  • Military research laboratories
  • Defense innovation organizations
  • Build a robust pipeline of new business opportunities and maintain accurate forecasts
  • Develop account penetration strategies for target customers

Customer Relationship Management:
  • Establish executive-level relationships within major defense organizations
  • Serve as the primary commercial contact for strategic defense accounts
  • Represent Ascentec at industry conferences, trade shows, defense forums, and customer meetings
  • Coordinate customer visits to U.S. and international manufacturing facilities

Opportunity Capture & Proposal Support:
  • Lead opportunity qualification, capture planning, and pursuit strategies
  • Coordinate internal teams to support RFQs, RFPs, and technical proposal submissions
  • Develop winning value propositions emphasizing:
  • Precision machining capabilities
  • Friction Stir Welding (FSW)
  • Complex CNC manufacturing
  • Supply chain resilience
  • Quality and regulatory compliance
  • Manage the sales process from prospecting through contract award.

Market Intelligence:
  • Monitor defense budgets, procurement trends, and emerging programs.
  • Identify opportunities related to:
  • Naval systems
  • Missiles and munitions
  • Space and launch systems
  • Unmanned systems
  • Military aircraft
  • Ground combat systems
  • Directed energy and advanced technologies
  • Analyze competitive positioning and recommend strategic investments.

Internal Leadership:
  • Collaborate with operations, engineering, quality, and executive leadership to align growth initiatives.
  • Provide voice-of-customer insights to guide investments and capability development.
  • Support strategic planning and annual revenue forecasting.
  • Assist in evaluating potential partnerships and teaming arrangements.

Required Qualifications:
Education:
  • Bachelor's degree in Business, Engineering, Manufacturing, Aerospace, or related fields.
  • Engineering degree and MBA are preferred.

Experience:
Director Level:
  • 10+ years of business development, capture management, or sales leadership experience within defense, aerospace, or military markets.
  • Proven history of generating and winning significant defense manufacturing programs.
  • Existing network of relationships within qualified defense primes and procurement organizations.
  • Experience managing multi-million-dollar opportunity pipelines.

Senior Manager Level:
  • 7+ years of defense-focused business development experience.
  • Demonstrated success developing strategic accounts and securing new business.
  • Strong understanding of defense procurement and contracting processes.

Industry Knowledge:
Strong understanding of:
  • DoD acquisition processes
  • Prime contractor supply chains
  • ITAR and export compliance
  • AS9100 and aerospace quality systems
  • Precision machining and manufacturing operations
  • Government contracting environments

Preferred Experience:
Experience working with one or more of the following:
  • Lockheed Martin
  • Boeing Defense
  • Northrop Grumman
  • RTX (Raytheon)
  • General Dynamics
  • BAE Systems
  • L3Harris
  • Huntington Ingalls
  • Anduril Industries
  • Sierra Space
  • U.S. Navy, Air Force, Army, or Space Force programs

Experience selling:
  • Precision-machined and Friction-Stir-Welding components and solutions
  • Aerospace structures
  • High-reliability assemblies
  • Complex CNC manufacturing services

Compensation:
Senior Manager, Business Development - Defense & Military Applications:
  • Salary Starts at $130,000 per year and may be higher based on experience, skills, and qualifications
  • Annual Discretionary Commission, based on performance metrics: Commission earnings of 20%+ of base salary, with additional upside based on performance

Director, Business Development - Defense & Military Applications:
  • Salary Starts at $150,000 per year and may be higher based on experience, skills, and qualifications
  • Annual Discretionary Commission, based on performance metrics: Commission earnings of 35%+ of base salary, with additional upside based on performance

Benefits:
  • Dental and Medical w/vision coverage insurance plans offered
  • STD/LTD & Life insurance plans offered
  • FSA and DCA available
  • PTO and Holiday pay
  • Immediate 100% vesting Safe Harbor 401(k) retirement saving plan with matching contributions
  • Educational aid program available
  • Purchase discounts, membership discounts, and many other incentives

Applicant must be able to pass a drug screen and criminal background check prior to employment.
ITAR REQUIREMENTS: To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.
Ascentec Engineering is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Ascentec Engineering is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.?

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