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Program Manager Defense Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

CDW

SR Program Manager

Vernon Hills, IL

$113K - $113K/yr

... defense programs OR 10 years with a Project Management Professional (PMP) certification • Demonstrated experience managing MILCON and/or ICG programs with end-to-end lifecycle ownership • ...

Plexus Corp.

Program Manager II

Buffalo Grove, IL · On-site

$93K - $140K/yr

Driven by a passion for excellence, we partner with leading Aerospace/Defense, Healthcare/Life ... The Program Manager leads the tactical interface between the customer and various Plexus functional ...

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Program Manager Defense information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$39.7K

$110.7K

$161.7K

How much do program manager defense jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for program manager defense in Chicago, IL is $110,700.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,900.00 and $136,500.00 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 Chicago, IL? For Program Manager Defense jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Program Manager Defense jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Program Manager Defense jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Program Manager Defense jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Program Manager Defense job openings:
Program Manager Defense jobs near you

Program Manager, DMFS

DMG MORI USA, INC

Hoffman Estates, IL • On-site

$90K/yr

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Reports to: Vice President of Sales

Location: 2400 Huntington Blvd, Hoffman Estates, IL 60192

Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00AM to 5:00PM

Classification: Exempt

Travel: Up to 60%

Employment is conditioned on DMG MORI's ability to obtain and maintain any necessary export licensing.

The Program Manager, Defense & Federal Accounts is accountable for the full sales lifecycle of DMG MORI Federal Services, from pursuit through contract completion. The position acts as the face of the company to federal & state organizations as well as defense contractors supporting federal agencies and partners while ensuring all activities are aligned with applicable Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS), and Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) or similar applicable acquisition processes.

Essential Job Functions

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills, and abilities required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Primary scope of position includes but is not limited to:

Customer Engagement & Leadership

  • Develop, grow and manage customer relationships within the U.S. Government (USG), including DLA and related defense organizations.
  • Support the company’s strategic business plan by offering tailored, compliant solutions aligned to acquisition lifecycle phases.
  • Lead negotiations of contracts, budgets, delivery schedules, and financial terms.
  • Serve as primary contact for U.S. Government and DLA customers in assigned region.

Team Leadership characteristics

  • Champion compliance-driven sales strategies, ensuring all proposals meet FARS/DFARS requirements.
  • Build an accountable, metrics-driven culture focused on contract wins and customer retention.
  • Engineering Collaboration:
  • Partner with Engineering to translate customer mission requirements into technically feasible, compliant solution for federal government & contractors.
  • Promote systems thinking, ensuring design, performance, and sustainment considerations are integrated early.
  • Operations Alignment:
  • Coordinate with operations to align logistics, contract timelines and purchasing standards.
  • Foster continuous improvement in delivery efficiency and compliance with generating customer quoting & pricing
  • Program Execution & Compliance
  • Manage solution delivery, continuously tracking internal and external deliverables
  • Assess and monitor U.S. Government needs across maintenance, engineering, training and life cycle sustainment.
  • Reinforce compliance discipline and cross-functional collaboration
Minimum Requirements
  • U.S. Citizen (US Service member retirees preferred)
  • Bachelor’s degree or equivalent military experience
  • Knowledge of B2B sales/business development
  • 10+ years of experience in managing multi-task contracts and leading teams
  • Knowledge of guidelines provided by FAR, DFARS, and DLA acquisition procedures (experience preferred)
Work Environment

A general office environment will be experienced. There will be periodic exposure to manufacturing environments which may present possible hazards such as noise, electricity, chemicals, heavy equipment, and other automated and manual machinery.

Physical Demands

Frequent: Sitting at desk, utilizing computers and phones. Repetitive hand, wrist, arm, and shoulder movements.

Periodic: Standing, walking, bending, and stooping.

Occasional: Lifting, pushing, and pulling objects.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse screening.