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Program Manager Defense Jobs in Commerce, TX (NOW HIRING)

L3HHCM20

Lead, Program Management

Greenville, TX · On-site

Greenville, TX Job Schedule: 9/80 Standard The Program Manager is responsible for leading and executing large, complex Department of Defense (DoD) programs valued between $200M and $600M, including ...

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Program Manager Defense information

See Commerce, TX salary details

$35.8K

$99.8K

$145.8K

How much do program manager defense jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for program manager defense in Commerce, TX is $99,819.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,800.00 and $123,100.00 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 Commerce, TX look for?

The top searched job categories for Program Manager Defense jobs in Commerce, TX are:

What cities near Commerce, TX are hiring for Program Manager Defense jobs?

Cities near Commerce, TX with the most Program Manager Defense job openings:

Program Manager Defense jobs near you
Infographic showing various Program Manager Defense job openings in Commerce, TX 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 $99,819 per year, or $48 per hour.

Lead, Program Management

L3HHCM20

Greenville, TX • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Job Title: Lead, Program Management

Job Code: 42008

Job Location: Greenville, TX

Job Schedule: 9/80 Standard

Job Description:

The Program Manager is responsible for leading and executing large, complex Department of Defense (DoD) programs valued between $200M and $600M, including efforts supporting CJADC2, Battle Management C3, Airborne SIGINT, and Product Sustainment. This role directs all phases of program performance and ensures disciplined execution across development, integration, modernization, and sustainment activities. The Program Manager drives results to achieve key business objectives including orders, revenue recognition, operating income, and free cash flow, and serves as the primary customer interface throughout execution. In addition to program leadership, this position leads major competitive and sole source capture and proposal efforts of similar magnitude. They develop strategies, analyze RFPs, coordinate proposal teams, and deliver compliant, compelling responses aligned with customer and mission needs.

Essential Functions:

  • Lead execution of large, complex DoD programs ($200M-$600M), directing all phases from inception through verification, validation, deployment, and closeout.
  • Manage cost, schedule, and technical performance, ensuring disciplined execution and alignment with corporate financial objectives across multiple fixed and cost plus contract types.
  • Develop and maintain integrated master schedules (IMS), oversee Earned Value Management (EVMS), and provide accurate performance reporting, forecasting, and variance analysis.
  • Identify, assess, and manage program risks and opportunities through structured mitigation and opportunity capture planning.
  • Serve as the primary customer interface, conducting formal program reviews, negotiating changes, resolving issues, and delivering executive-level briefings.
  • Direct matrixed cross-functional teams and subcontractors, ensuring resources are available, capable, and aligned to meet program objectives.
  • Deliver clear written and verbal communications to senior leadership and customers on program performance, pursuit status, risks, opportunities, and strategic considerations.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree and 9 years of program management, aerospace/defense, business development, or military experience; OR Graduate degree and 7 years of related experience; OR In lieu of a degree, 13+ years of directly relevant experience.
  • Demonstrated experience leading large-scale DoD programs with full cost, schedule, and technical accountability, including
  • Experience developing RFPs, proposals, program plans, specifications, or acquisition documents.
  • Strong financial acumen including budgeting, forecasting, cost-account leadership, variance analysis, and EVMS.
  • Familiarity with DoD contracting, FAR/DFARS, and defense acquisition lifecycle processes.
  • Experience with program reviews, executive briefings, and direct customer engagement.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Secret Security Clearance.

Preferred Additional Skills:

  • Knowledge of CJADC2, Battle Management C3, Airborne SIGINT, and/or Product Sustainment programs
  • Knowledge of technical approaches for aircraft modification programs, subsystems, and components.
  • Experience supporting or leading competitive proposals including technical strategy, pricing strategy, RFP interpretation, and SOW/specification development.
  • Active US Secret or Top Secret security clearance.

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