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Program Manager Defense Jobs in Aberdeen, MD (NOW HIRING)

Program Manager

Aberdeen, MD · On-site

$120K - $225K/yr

Are you a strategic leader who thrives on solving complex engineering and operational challenges in support of defense initiatives? As our Program Manager, you will be the operational heartbeat ...

Familiarity with defense acquisition regulations, Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR), Other ... Experience managing programs that span cloud-based and tactical edge platforms, including the ...

New

Program Manager

Aberdeen, MD · Hybrid

$120K - $225K/yr

Are you a strategic leader who thrives on solving complex engineering and operational challenges in support of defense initiatives? As our Program Manager, you will be the operational heartbeat ...

Program Manager

Aberdeen, MD · On-site

$120K - $225K/yr

Are you a strategic leader who thrives on solving complex engineering and operational challenges in support of defense initiatives? As our Program Manager, you will be the operational heartbeat ...

Program Mgmt Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel: Yes - 10% of the time Minimum Clearance ... Familiarity with defense acquisition regulations, Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR), Other ...

Sr Program Manager

Hunt Valley, MD

$110K - $110K/yr

We serve customers in industries spanning aerospace and defense, specialized vehicles, turf care ... We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Sr. Program Manager to join our team in supporting ...

Sr Program Manager

Hunt Valley, MD · On-site

$110K - $110K/yr

We serve customers in industries spanning aerospace and defense, specialized vehicles, turf care ... We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Sr. Program Manager to join our team in supporting ...

Program Manager

Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD · On-site

$120K - $180K/yr

Program Manager Company: Altus Engineering Location: Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD Salary: $120,000 ... to the Department of Defense and industry customers. These include high-quality software ...

New

Program Manager

Aberdeen, MD · On-site

$120K - $180K/yr

Program Manager Company: Altus Engineering Location: Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD Salary: $120,000 ... to the Department of Defense and industry customers. These include high-quality software ...

New

Program Manager Company: Altus Engineering Location: Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD Salary: $120,000 ... to the Department of Defense and industry customers. These include high-quality software ...

New

Koniag IT Systems is seeking a highly experienced Program Manager to lead IT support services for a Defense government client. The ideal candidate will provide strategic leadership for IT operations ...

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Program Manager Defense information

See Aberdeen, MD salary details

$41.4K

$115.6K

$168.8K

How much do program manager defense jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for program manager defense in Aberdeen, MD is $115,557.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,500.00 and $142,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 job categories do people searching Program Manager Defense jobs in Aberdeen, MD look for?

The top searched job categories for Program Manager Defense jobs in Aberdeen, MD are:

What cities near Aberdeen, MD are hiring for Program Manager Defense jobs?

Cities near Aberdeen, MD with the most Program Manager Defense job openings:

Infographic showing various Program Manager Defense job openings in Aberdeen, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $115,557 per year, or $55.6 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Position title: Program Manager

Location: Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD

Clearance required: Active TS / SCI.

Responsibilities include (but are not limited to):

  • Organize, direct, and coordinate planning and implementation of all contract support activities.
  • Interface with government personnel.
  • Formulate and review project feasibility studies, determine costs, ensure conformance to work standards.
  • Manage logistics support analysis for military systems.
  • Manage systems safety studies.
  • Identify, acquire, and utilize company resources to achieve project technical objectives.
  • Bachelors or Master's degree in a relevant field is strongly preferred.
  • One of the following certifications required: Project Management Institute (PMI), Project Management Professional (PMP), Defense Acquisition Workforce Improvement Act (DAWIA) PM Level III.
  • Minimum of 12 years progressive experience in design and development.
  • Minimum of 5 years management and supervision of substantive military hardware & software development.
  • Minimum of 5 years of systems analysis experience.
  • Minimum of 10 years of Department of Defense-related program management with US military and / or other Government agencies.