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Program Manager Defense Jobs in Chicago Heights, IL

Sales Manager

Chicago, IL

$100K - $140K/yr

Sales Manager PSW Group is seeking a strategic and experienced Sales Manager to support and grow ... new program opportunities. The ideal candidate brings experience working with defense system ...

Ability to manage and prioritize multiple projects * Ability to identify and resolve problems ... Mentorship & Career Growth - Access strong mentorship, global training programs, and career ...

Sales Manager

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

Sales Manager PSW Group is seeking a strategic and experienced Sales Manager to support and grow ... new program opportunities. The ideal candidate brings experience working with defense system ...

Overview The Manager, Risk Management is responsible for the building and coordination of a centralized first-line of defense (LOD1) risk and internal control program efforts for Early Warning ...

Food Safety & Prerequisite Programs * Manage and oversee GMP, SSOP, Food Defense, Food Fraud Prevention, Recall & Traceability, Allergen Management, Supplier Approval, Environmental Monitoring, Pest ...

Food Safety & Prerequisite Programs * Manage and oversee GMP, SSOP, Food Defense, Food Fraud Prevention, Recall & Traceability, Allergen Management, Supplier Approval, Environmental Monitoring, Pest ...

Strategy & Planning Manager

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$117K - $172K/yr

... defense, global business acceleration, and competitive go-to-market execution. * Translate ... Strong PowerPoint, Excel, project/program management, and communication skills * Experience ...

Manager, Operations

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$89K - $105K/yr

Manager, Operations Direct and coordinate activities of operations within the Defense Distributions ... Generous paid time off program * Professional development and career advancement opportunities ...

Manager, Operations

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$89K - $105K/yr

Manager, Operations Direct and coordinate activities of operations within the Defense Distributions ... Generous paid time off program * Professional development and career advancement opportunities ...

Safety Manager

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$86K - $102K/yr

Ensures all safety manuals, programs, policies and practices are current and meet the needs of the ... defensive driving, service area familiarization, passenger loading, unloading and securement ...

Safety Manager

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$86K - $102K/yr

Ensures all safety manuals, programs, policies and practices are current and meet the needs of the ... defensive driving, service area familiarization, passenger loading, unloading and securement ...

Safety Manager

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$86K - $102K/yr

Ensures all safety manuals, programs, policies and practices are current and meet the needs of the ... defensive driving, service area familiarization, passenger loading, unloading and securement ...

Safety Manager

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$86K - $102K/yr

Ensures all safety manuals, programs, policies and practices are current and meet the needs of the ... defensive driving, service area familiarization, passenger loading, unloading and securement ...

Showing results 41-60

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 18, 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 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 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 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, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,028 per year, or $50.5 per hour.

Litigation Associate Attorney - Civil Defense

Tressler LLP

Chicago, IL โ€ข On-site

$113K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Role Description
We are seeking a Litigation Attorney with two to four years of civil litigation experience to join our Chicago, Illinois office.
Our Litigation Practice Group represents clients in a broad range of defense matters, including personal injury, wrongful death, premises liability, product liability, transportation, construction, property damage, and medical malpractice disputes.
The ideal candidate will have strong legal writing, case management, and client communication skills. This position offers meaningful responsibility, direct client interaction, and the opportunity to develop hands-on litigation experience while working closely with experienced litigators.
This is a hybrid position in our Chicago, Illinois office in Willis Tower.
What You'll Do:
  • Defend clients in civil litigation and arbitration matters.
  • Draft pleadings, written discovery, demurrers, and motions to strike.
  • Communicate directly with clients, claims professionals, experts, witnesses, and opposing counsel.
  • Review and analyze medical records, discovery materials, expert reports, and other case evidence.
  • Participate in depositions, court appearances, mediations, and settlement conferences.
  • Work closely with senior attorneys to develop case strategy and prepare matters for trial, including witness preparation, exhibit development, and pretrial motion practice.

What We're Looking For:
  • 2+ years of civil litigation experience in state or federal court.
  • Active Illinois bar admission in good standing.
  • Strong legal research, writing, analytical, and oral advocacy skills.
  • Deposition, court appearance, or case management experience preferred.
  • Excellent judgment, organization, attention to detail, and client communication skills.
  • Ability to manage matters independently while collaborating effectively with partners, associates, paralegals, and law clerks.

What Sets This Role Apart
  • Early case ownership with meaningful client interaction and substantive litigation responsibilities.
  • Direct mentorship from experienced litigation attorneys and accessible firm leadership.
  • A supportive, team-oriented environment focused on attorney development.
  • Significant hands-on experience in court appearances, depositions, mediations, and arbitration proceedings.
  • A clear path for long-term professional growth and advancement within the firm.

Featured benefits
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage
  • 401(k) retirement plan with firm match
  • Firm-paid bar and professional association dues
  • Continuing Legal Education (CLE) support
  • Professional development and associate training program
  • Paid parental leave
  • Paid time off and firm holidays
  • Pre-tax commuter benefits
  • Firm-paid gym membership in Willis Tower

Interview Process Timeline
Application
Our team will review your application. Please submit your resume.
Screening Interview
Our Director of Recruiting will reach out to you to schedule a preliminary 30-45-minute virtual interview with the hiring manager(s).
In-Person Interview
Here you'll meet some of the team who will evaluate your skillset and assess if you are a good culture fit for the firm. You will have the opportunity to tour our office and meet with the entire team in person.
Offer
Congratulations! If the hiring team thinks you're a good match, we will extend an offer to join the firm.
About Life at Tressler
Tressler LLP is an award-winning law firm with ten offices located in six states - California, Illinois, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. Trusted for 40 years, our firm has significant depth and experience in the resolution of disputes through mediation, arbitration, litigation, and trials.
The majority of Tressler attorneys devote their practice to the representation of the insurance industry in coverage analysis and resolution, litigation, underwriting consultation, product development, claims management, and reinsurance. In addition, Tressler attorneys represent clients in commercial litigation, defense litigation, corporate transactions, government law, employment law and litigation, intellectual property, and condominium and common interest community association law. Tressler has been named to the prestigious Best Lawyers "Best Law Firms" lists for the past six years. We are proud to be a Certified Great Place to Workยฉ in the U.S.A., a ranking based on our employee happiness scores and positive reviews of our management team.
Salary commensurate with experience:
$113,000-$140,000 USD