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Program Manager Defense Jobs in Charleston, SC (NOW HIRING)

DES

Program Manager

Ladson, SC

The Program Manager is committed to act as a brand representative of Defense Engineering Services and portray our values of technical excellence, integrity, teamwork (rugby team mentality ...

Cp Marine Llc

Project/Program Manager II

Charleston, SC · On-site

CPMG offers flexible, integrative solutions for Department of Defense (DoD) contractors, among ... Program Lifecycle Environment (CIMPLE), with a focus on the Compute and Storage Management Service ...

Cp Marine Llc

Project/Program Manager II

Charleston, SC · On-site

CPMG offers flexible, integrative solutions for Department of Defense (DoD) contractors, among ... Program Lifecycle Environment (CIMPLE), with a focus on the Compute and Storage Management Service ...

DES

Engineering Project Manager

Ladson, SC · On-site

This role will report to the Program Manager and support the engineering teams in the execution of ... The EPM is committed to act as a brand representative of Defense Engineering Services and portray ...

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Program Manager Defense information

See Charleston, SC salary details

$36K

$100.6K

$146.9K

How much do program manager defense jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for program manager defense in Charleston, SC is $100,563.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,400.00 and $124,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Program Manager in 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 in Defense, and why are they important?

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 in the defense sector 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 are popular job titles related to Program Manager Defense jobs in Charleston, SC? For Program Manager Defense jobs in Charleston, SC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Program Manager Defense jobs in Charleston, SC look for? The top searched job categories for Program Manager Defense jobs in Charleston, SC are:
What cities near Charleston, SC are hiring for Program Manager Defense jobs? Cities near Charleston, SC with the most Program Manager Defense job openings:
Program Manager Defense jobs near you
Infographic showing various Program Manager Defense job openings in Charleston, SC as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,563 per year, or $48.3 per hour.

Program Manager

DES

Ladson, SC

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

The Program Manager (PM) is responsible for developing and leading engineering programs, including projects and team members, to successful completion. This role will report to the Managing Principals and oversee program budgets, schedules, staffing, and tasking. The Program Manager creates and promotes an environment of autonomy and collaboration among project teams resulting in high levels of efficiency, quality, and technical excellence. This role requires successful management of client relationships leading to increased business opportunities and profitability.
The Program Manager is committed to act as a brand representative of Defense Engineering Services and portray our values of technical excellence, integrity, teamwork (rugby team mentality), efficiency, service, and community. They recognize and use our mission and higher purpose as a guide in every decision made on behalf of the organization.
Responsibilities:
  • Lead the engineering and prototype projects with technical know-how and experience including effective requirements analysis and decomposition, systems engineering, and technical management.
  • Manage project teams through scrums, design reviews, and planning meetings to ensure all projects are completed on time and within budget.
  • Create value-added engineering products and prototypes for the customer (internal and external).
  • Effectively keep project teams on target and efficiently utilized on billable projects.
  • Create design/project plans with the customer, track the design/project plan, and communicate status in the customer’s preferred method.
  • Actively identify and mitigate project risks both technically and operationally.
  • Manage internal and external relationships with team members, customers, and vendors.
  • Support and direct the tasking and development of team members.
  • Manage and direct bid and proposal processes including basis of estimate (BOE) and rough order of magnitude (ROM).
  • Actively engage in business development with clients, vendors, and industry partners.
  • Document systems engineering, requirements decomposition, and tracking and risk management to effectively deliver good engineering products and prototypes.
  • Coordinate and manage the release of drawings, engineering documentation, reports, and other technical work products.
  • Act as a double check and take active measures to reduce errors and improve continuously.
  • Support project teams by offering help and assistance, communicating effectively, and being flexible and accommodating to necessary changes.
  • Act without direction and watch for opportunities to improve and reduce waste while understanding the intricacies of our industry and proper conduct.
  • Contributes to team effort by performing other assigned duties as needed.
Leadership Responsibilities:
  • Facilitates and encourages a culture of cross-collaboration, open communication, and solutions-oriented approaches to challenges.
  • Collaborates with senior leadership to understand the organization’s goals and strategy related to staffing, recruiting, and retention.
  • Participates in the hiring and training of departmental managers.
  • Works with the organization’s departments to collaborate on organizational timelines to ensure all are working effectively toward our mutual goals.
  • Works closely with Human Resources to lead the team with integrity and to establish and maintain a trusting, inclusive, and productive environment. Leadership of employees may include compensation and benefits, recognition and morale, occupational health and safety, and training and development.
  • Identifies staffing and recruiting needs; develops and executes best practices for hiring and talent management.
  • Acts as a key player in the development of goals, strategic initiatives, and planning efforts for the organization.
  • Coaches, teaches, mentors, and advises the Engineering Project Managers (EPMs) in the fundamentals of project management to ensure the proper development of the EPMs and successful completion of projects.
Desired Skills:
  • Ability to travel for business related reasons as required.
  • Knowledge of Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and Department of Defense (DoD) procurement policies and procedures is preferred.
  • Ability to obtain security clearance.
Qualifications and Requirements:
  • Bachelor of Science in Engineering, Physical Sciences, Mathematics, Management Information Systems or Business.
  • Certified Project Management Professional (PMP) is preferred.
  • Fifteen (15) years of technical experience in support of relevant technical field to include Equipment Support, System Support, and Programmatic Support.
  • Eight (8) years of Program Management experience to include technology assessments, systems design, systems analysis, programmatic support, acquisition planning, and budget planning, and scheduling.
  • Five (5) years as a manager of task specific project(s).

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