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

GKN Aerospace

Program Manager

Westlake, TX · On-site

Bachelor degree in engineering, business or a technical related field. * 10+ years of experience in the Aerospace/Defense Industries * 5+ years of experience in program management * Must understand ...

Shield AI

Senior Program Manager (R4932)

Dallas, TX · On-site

$140K - $210K/yr

Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company with the mission of protecting service members ... The Senior Program Manager will lead the execution and growth of Navy Intelligence, Surveillance ...

Shield AI

Senior Program Manager (R4932)

Dallas, TX · On-site

$140K - $210K/yr

Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company with the mission of protecting service members ... The Senior Program Manager will lead the execution and growth of Navy Intelligence, Surveillance ...

OSI Systems, Inc

Program Manager

Richardson, TX · On-site

$107K - $135K/yr

Bachelor's degree in business, finance, project management, engineering or related field * 5 years of experience in Program Management, engineering coordination, manufacturing programs, defense ...

OSI Systems, Inc

Program Manager

Richardson, TX · On-site

$107K - $135K/yr

Bachelor's degree in business, finance, project management, engineering or related field * 5 years of experience in Program Management, engineering coordination, manufacturing programs, defense ...

BAE Systems

Program Mgr II

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

$136K - $231K/yr

BAE Systems is seeking a strategic, growth-oriented Program Manager to lead complex USAF ... S. subsidiary of BAE Systems plc, an international defense, aerospace and security company which ...

Leonardo DRS

Program Manager

Dallas, TX · On-site

Build and manage program plans, schedules, budgets, and resource requirements, providing clear and ... To be the leading mid-tier defense technology company in the U.S. Our Values. The Leonardo DRS ...

Leonardo DRS

Program Manager

Dallas, TX

Build and manage program plans, schedules, budgets, and resource requirements, providing clear and ... defense programs in a prime or subcontractor environment Experience in resource planning ...

Shield AI

Senior Program Manager (R4931)

Dallas, TX

$140K - $210K/yr

Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company with the mission of protecting service members ... Seeking a Program Manager to lead the development and delivery of transformative unmanned aerial ...

Shield AI

Senior Program Manager (R4931)

Dallas, TX · On-site

$140K - $210K/yr

Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company with the mission of protecting service members ... Seeking a Program Manager to lead the development and delivery of transformative unmanned aerial ...

Shield AI

Senior Program Manager (R4931)

Dallas, TX · On-site

$140K - $210K/yr

Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company with the mission of protecting service members ... Seeking a Program Manager to lead the development and delivery of transformative unmanned aerial ...

Leonardo DRS

Technical Program Manager

Dallas, TX · On-site

$117K - $152K/yr

The Technical Program Manager for the RAPID Laboratory is responsible for managing the daily ... Prior defense industry experience in the development of electro-optics * Possess an active U.S ...

Leonardo DRS

Senior Program Manager

Dallas, TX · On-site

$105K - $106K/yr

... aerospace, defense, manufacturing, or other technical environments * Demonstrated ability to manage program execution across multiple priorities and workstreams with limited oversight * Proven ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsProgram Defense JobsProgram Manager Defense JobsProgram Manager Defense Jobs in Dallas, TX

Program Manager Defense information

See Dallas, TX salary details

$38.1K

$106.3K

$155.3K

How much do program manager defense jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for program manager defense in Dallas, TX is $106,303.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,600.00 and $131,100.00 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 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 are popular job titles related to Program Manager Defense jobs in Dallas, TX?

For Program Manager Defense jobs in Dallas, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Program Manager Defense jobs in Dallas, TX look for?

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

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

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

Program Manager Defense jobs near you
Infographic showing various Program Manager Defense job openings in Dallas, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $106,303 per year, or $51.1 per hour.

Program Manager

GKN Aerospace

Westlake, TX • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago

GKN Aerospace rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 38 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

46th of 72 rated aerospace companies

Job description

Fantastic challenges. Amazing opportunities.
GKN Aerospace is reimagining air travel: going further, faster and greener! Fuelled by great people whose expertise and creativity sets the standards in our industry, we're inspired by the opportunities to innovate and break boundaries. We're proud to play a part in protecting the world's democracies. And we're committed to putting sustainability at the centre of everything we do, opening up and protecting our planet. With over 16,000 employees across 33 manufacturing sites in 12 countries we serve over 90% of the world's aircraft and engine manufacturers and achieved sales of £3.35 bn.in 2023. There are no limits to where you can take your career.
Job Summary
The Program Manager is responsible for the execution of the business case and contract in line with requirements and the agreed scope. Supports the Program Director with NPI activities up to and including Lifecycle Gate 7 and with on-going management activities of the program from Lifecycle Gate 7 and beyond. Supports the Program Director with Change Control Board activities
Job Responsibilities
  • Supports the execution of the program (including changes) to comply with all the business case and contractual requirements for their products.
  • Responsible for continuously monitoring the performance of the allocated programs, managing off-track items and for reporting progress through the PPS.
  • Creates Program Improvement Plans including cost improvement, pricing initiatives, enable Zero Defects Manufacturing, redesign initiatives, gaining agreement with relevant stakeholders.
  • Provides input to make, move, buy decisions and strategic procurement decisions.
  • Acts as the voice of the customer.
  • Supports the PD / VP in defining the vision, strategy, budget for the program to optimize cash flow, profitability and growth.
  • Adheres to all program management standards and policies in accordance with the GKN Aerospace Program Management framework and contribute to process development.
  • Actively executes Risk, Issue and Opportunity Management to control and mitigate the risk exposure and take advantage of opportunities.
  • Supports the PD in the proposal process.
  • Responsible for planning and performance of Life Cycle Gate, including preceding Reviews.
  • Responsible for updating Sales / Demand Plan and initiating demand management for serial purchase orders.
  • Responsible for undertaking any other activity required to ensure successful delivery of the program.

Job Qualifications
  • Bachelor degree in engineering, business or a technical related field.
  • 10+ years of experience in the Aerospace/Defense Industries
  • 5+ years of experience in program management
  • Must understand performing work subject to ITAR regulations and program requirements in a manufacturing environment.
  • U.S. Person per ITAR regulations to comply with export compliance and site SSA requirements.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience in operations and/or procurement
  • Ability to create, manage and execute a project plan.
  • Strong communication skills.
  • Ability to build relationships with customers and other internal / external stakeholders.
  • Financial acumen.
  • Understanding of the business models within Aerospace.
  • Either completed or registered for acknowledged Program Management Certification
  • Ability to build and lead teams.
  • Operates with a sense of urgency.

We'll offer you fantastic challenges and amazing opportunities. This is your chance to be part of an organisation that has proven itself to be at the cutting edge of our industry; and is committed to pushing the boundaries even further. And with some of the best training on offer in the industry, who knows how far you can go?
A Great Place to work needs a Great Way of Working
Everyone is welcome to apply to GKN. We believe that we can only achieve our ambitions through a coming together of diverse minds who enjoy collaborating in an inspirational environment. Through our commitment to diversity, inclusion and belonging and by living our five powerful principles we've created a culture where everyone feels welcome to contribute. It's a culture that won us 'The Best Workplace Culture Award'. By embracing and celebrating what makes us unique we encourage everyone to bring their full self to work.
We're also committed to providing an accessible recruitment process, so if you require reasonable adjustments at any stage during our recruitment process please get in touch and let us know.
We are the place where human dreams, plus human endeavour, shape the future of aerospace innovation and technology.

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