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Program Manager Defense Jobs in Bristol, CT (NOW HIRING)

Contracts Manager

Oxford, CT

$87K - $117K/yr

Support aerospace and defense programs involving OEMs, Tier 1 suppliers, military, and government-related customers. * Manage contract compliance requirements associated with aerospace and defense ...

Contracts Manager

Oxford, CT · On-site

$87K - $117K/yr

Support aerospace and defense programs involving OEMs, Tier 1 suppliers, military, and government-related customers. * Manage contract compliance requirements associated with aerospace and defense ...

Showing results 21-40

Program Manager Defense information

See Bristol, CT salary details

$38.6K

$107.6K

$157.2K

How much do program manager defense jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for program manager defense in Bristol, CT is $107,604.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,600.00 and $132,700.00 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 Bristol, CT look for?

The top searched job categories for Program Manager Defense jobs in Bristol, CT are:

What cities near Bristol, CT are hiring for Program Manager Defense jobs?

Cities near Bristol, CT with the most Program Manager Defense job openings:

Infographic showing various Program Manager Defense job openings in Bristol, CT 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 $107,604 per year, or $51.7 per hour.

Enterprise Architect - Aerospace & Defense

DXC Technology

Middletown, CT • On-site

$137K - $256K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago


DXC Technology rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 48 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

152nd of 224 rated it services


Job description

Job Description:
Key Responsibilities
1. Enterprise Architecture Strategy (A&D Context) • Define enterprise architecture vision aligned with defense programs, product lifecycle, and mission readiness • Develop long-term architecture roadmaps supporting: o Digital thread / digital twin initiatives o Engineering-to-manufacturing integration o Sustainment and lifecycle management • Aligning IT strategy with program-based funding models and contract structures
2. Digital Engineering & Product Lifecycle Integration • Architect end-to-end integration across: o PLM (e.g., Siemens Teamcenter, Dassault 3DX, Apriso, PTC Windchill) o ERP (e.g., SAP S/4HANA) o MES and shop-floor systems (e.g., iBase-t Solumina) o Integration platforms (e.g., eQ) • Enable Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) and digital thread continuity • Support configuration management, BOM integrity, and traceability
3. Manufacturing & MRO Architecture • Design architecture supporting: o Smart factory / Industry 4.0 initiatives, including connected assets and test labs o Predictive maintenance and condition-based monitoring o MRO platforms and field service systems • Integrate IoT, edge computing, and telemetry from aircraft/defense systems
4. Security, Compliance & Regulatory Alignment • Ensure compliance with: o ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations) o CMMC o NIST 800-53 o DoDAF o Implement Zero Trust architectures and secure data segregation o Support classified and unclassified environment separation
5. Architecture Governance • Establish governance aligned with defense program lifecycle gates • Lead architecture review boards for major programs and proposals • Ensure reuse of platforms and reduction of program-specific silos 6. Program & Capture Support • Identify new business opportunities • Support bid and proposal (capture) activities with architecture inputs • Define technical baselines for new defense contracts • Collaborate with program managers on cost, schedule, and risk
7. Data & Integration Architecture • Define enterprise data strategy for: o Engineering data o Manufacturing and quality data o Sustainment and operational data • Implement API-led and event-driven integration across legacy and modern systems • Enable secure data sharing across partners, suppliers, and government entities
Required Qualifications
• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Information Systems, or related field Experience
• 20+ years in IT or engineering systems within Aerospace & Defense
• 7+ years in Enterprise or Solution Architecture roles
• Experience supporting defense programs, OEMs, or Tier 1 suppliers
• Experience in executing Smart Factory initiatives
Core Competencies A&D Domain Expertise
• Product lifecycle management (PLM)
• Engineering design and simulation environments
• Manufacturing execution and quality systems
• MRO and sustainment operations Architecture Frameworks
• TOGAF
• DoDAF / MODAF (preferred)
• SAFe for large-scale program execution Technical Expertise
• Cloud environments (including GovCloud / classified cloud)
• Digital thread & digital twin architectures
• IoT / edge computing in aerospace systems
• High-performance computing (HPC) for simulation workloads
• Cybersecurity in regulated environments Leadership & Stakeholder Management
• Experience working with o Program managers o Chief engineers o Government stakeholders (DoD, primes) o Strong ability to operate in matrixed, program-driven environments Preferred Certifications
• TOGAF Certification
• Cloud Architect (AWS/Azure GovCloud)
• CISSP
• SAFe Agilist Key Deliverables
• Enterprise architecture aligned to defense programs
• Digital thread / digital twin architecture blueprints
• Secure data exchange frameworks
• Program-aligned technology roadmaps
• Architecture input for RFPs and contract bids Success Metrics (KPIs)
• Program execution efficiency (cost, schedule adherence)
• Reduction in engineering/manufacturing rework
• Digital thread adoption across lifecycle
• Compliance audit success (ITAR, CMMC)
• Improved fleet readiness and sustainment efficiency
Unique Aspects of This Role in A&D
• Operates within highly regulated, security-sensitive environments
• Balances program-specific customization vs enterprise standardization
• Supports long lifecycle systems (20-40 years)
• Integrates engineering rigor with enterprise IT strategy
Compensation at DXC is influenced by an array of factors, including but not limited to the experience, job-related knowledge, skills, competencies, as well as contract-specific affordability and organizational requirements. A reasonable estimate of the current compensation range for this position is $137,900 - $256,100.
Full-time hires are eligible to participate in the DXC benefit program. DXC offers a comprehensive, flexible, and competitive benefits program which includes, but is not limited to, health, dental, and vision insurance coverage; employee wellness; life and disability insurance; a retirement savings plan, paid holidays, paid time off.
At DXC Technology, we believe strong connections and community are key to our success. Our work model prioritizes in-person collaboration while offering flexibility to support wellbeing, productivity, individual work styles, and life circumstances. We're committed to fostering an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive.
If you are an applicant from the United States, Guam, or Puerto Rico
DXC Technology Company (DXC) is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, pregnancy, veteran status, genetic information, citizenship status, or any other basis prohibited by law. View postings below.
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If you are an individual with a disability, a disabled veteran, or a wounded warrior and you are unable or limited in your ability to access or use this site as a result of your disability, you may request a reasonable accommodation by contacting us via email.
Please note: DXC will respond only to requests for accommodations due to a disability.
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