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Program Manager Defense Jobs in Chicago Heights, IL

Associate - Trial & Defense

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$125K - $145K/yr

Manage a caseload of 25-30 matters; * Take depositions, attending hearings, and mediations as ... Global Mobility Program - Participate in client-facing events across North America and explore our ...

Associate - Trial & Defense

Chicago, IL · On-site

$125K - $160K/yr

Manage a caseload of 25-30 matters; * Take depositions, attending hearings, and mediations as ... Access regional and global associate training and career development programs. • Comprehensive ...

Associate - Trial & Defense

Chicago, IL · On-site

$125K - $145K/yr

Manage a caseload of 25-30 matters; * Take depositions, attending hearings, and mediations as ... Access regional and global associate training and career development programs. • Comprehensive ...

Associate - Trial & Defense

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$125K - $160K/yr

Manage a caseload of 25-30 matters; * Take depositions, attending hearings, and mediations as ... Global Mobility Program - Participate in client-facing events across North America and explore our ...

We are looking for a strategic and experienced Sales Manager to support and grow our presence ... new program opportunities. The ideal candidate brings experience working with defense system ...

Coordinate and track program tasks; providing managers with analytical information for making decisions on the aspects of organizational operations relative to the effectiveness and efficiency of ...

Coordinate and track program tasks; providing managers with analytical information for making decisions on the aspects of organizational operations relative to the effectiveness and efficiency of ...

Coordinate and track program tasks; providing managers with analytical information for making decisions on the aspects of organizational operations relative to the effectiveness and efficiency of ...

Coordinate and track program tasks; providing managers with analytical information for making decisions on the aspects of organizational operations relative to the effectiveness and efficiency of ...

Manage a caseload of about 20 matters * Actively investigate claims and prepare case handling ... Mentorship & Career Growth - Access strong mentorship, global training programs, and career ...

SCA Analytic Linguist

Chicago, IL

$34.25 - $36.50/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 ...

Showing results 21-40

Program Manager Defense information

See Chicago Heights, IL salary details

$37.6K

$105K

$153.4K

How much do program manager defense jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for program manager defense in Chicago Heights, IL is $105,028.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,700.00 and $129,500.00 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 Chicago Heights, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Program Manager Defense jobs in Chicago Heights, IL are:
Infographic showing various Program Manager Defense job openings in Chicago Heights, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,028 per year, or $50.5 per hour.

SUPERVISORY MANAGEMENT AND PROGRAM ANALYST

US Department of Homeland Security

Chicago, IL • On-site

$107K/yr

Other

Posted 23 days ago


U.S. Department Of Homeland Security rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 86 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

93rd of 289 rated public sector bodies


Job description

Protect your homeland and defend your culture. Join USCIS, America's frontline defense against illegal foreign infiltration and fraud.
As a SUPERVISORY MANAGEMENT AND PROGRAM ANALYST, you will provide oversight of a wide range of administrative and analytical duties in support of the intake and processing of immigration applications and benefits.Qualifications:The qualifications for this position must be met by 11:59 PM (Eastern Time) on 08/06/2026.
Current Federal employees must have served 52 weeks at the lower grade or equivalent grade band in the Federal service. The Time-in-Grade requirement must be met by 11:59 PM (Eastern Time) on 08/06/2026.

GS-14: You qualify at the GS-14 level if you possess one (1) year of specialized experience, which is equivalent to at least the GS-13 level in the federal government, that equipped you with the skills needed to successfully perform the duties of the position. You must have experience performing the majority of the following duties:
  • Managing internal and external stakeholders to obtain insights, approaches, and demonstrations of solutions.
  • Prioritizing and assigning tasks to the team based on the complexity of the assignment and team members strengths.
  • Providing oversight of applications or petitions; developing solutions to resolve customer obstacles.
  • Reviewing reports and monitoring program performance in order to make necessary adjustments to increase efficiency.
Please read the following important information to ensure you submit everything we need to consider your application: It is your responsibility to ensure that you submit your responses and appropriate documentation prior to 08/06/2026. You must upload your resume under the "Resume" category. Resumes submitted under the "Other Documents" category will not be considered. Your most recently submitted resume will be used to determine your qualifications for the position advertised in this announcement. Therefore, your resume must highlight your most relevant, significant experience related to the requirements found in the qualification section of this announcement, as well as any applicable education. Limit your resume to no more than two pages. The USAJOBS database will not allow an applicant to submit an application that includes a resume over two pages. To help ensure your resume remains clear and easy to read, we recommend using margins of at least 0.8 inches and a font size of at least 11 point. Be clear and specific when describing your work history since Human Resources cannot make assumptions regarding your experience. Your application will be rated and ranked based on your responses to the online questions.
Please ensure EACH work history includes ALL of the following information:
  • Job Title (include series and grade if Federal Job)
  • Duties (be specific in describing your duties)
  • Employer's name and address
  • Supervisor name and phone number
  • Start and end dates including month, day and year (e.g. June 18 2007 to April 05 2008)
  • Start and end dates for each grade/pay level if you've held a federal position.
  • Full-time or part-time status (include hours worked per week)
  • Salary
Determining length of General or Specialized Experience is dependent on the above information and failure to provide the above information may result in a finding of ineligible.
Note: Overstating your qualifications and/or experience in your application materials or application questionnaire may result in your removal from consideration.
Federal Experience: If you are using current or prior federal experience as a basis for qualifying for this position, the grade levels and length of employment (mm/dd/year) at each grade level must be listed in your work history. This information will be further validated if selected for this position.
National Service Experience (i.e., volunteer experience): Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build criteria competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer service.
Education:EDUCATIONAL SUBSTITUTION: There is no educational substitution at this grade level.

Voluntary Separation Incentive Payment (VSIP): Per 5 CFR 576.202, An employee who receives a Voluntary Separation Incentive Payment (VSIP) and later accepts employment for compensation with the Government of the United States within 5 years of the date of the separation on which the VSIP is based, including work under a personal services contract or other direct contract, must repay the entire amount of the VSIP to the agency that paid it (proof of payment is required) before the individual's first day of reemployment.
Any offers of employment made pursuant to this announcement will be consistent with all applicable authorities, including Presidential Memoranda, Executive Orders, interpretive U.S. Office of Personnel Management guidance and U.S. Office of Management and Budget plans and policies concerning hiring. These authorities are subject to change.
Applying to this announcement certifies that you give permission for DHS to share your application with others in DHS for similar positions.
Common definitions for hiring terms found in this announcement.

Employment Type: OTHER

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About U.S. Department of Homeland Security

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is a federal agency operating within the government services industry in Washington, DC, US. Established in 2003, the DHS is directly responsible for public security, roughly comparable to the interior or home ministries of other countries. Its main responsibilities include protecting the United States from and responding to terrorist attacks, man-made accidents, and natural disasters. Through its more than 20 component agencies including Coast Guard, Customs and Border Protection, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, it ensures the safety of the US through numerous programs and initiatives. The DHS upholds a core value system with the mission of safeguarding the American people, our homeland, and values. Notably, the DHS plays a critical role in the spectral range of activities to prepare, prevent, and respond to possible threats to the US.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US

Year founded

2003