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Program Manager Defense Jobs in Dayton, OH (NOW HIRING)

Lead and manage complex defense, intelligence, and Federal programs supporting mission-critical operations and modernization initiatives * Provide strategic program oversight for technical ...

Lead and manage complex defense, intelligence, and Federal programs supporting mission-critical operations and modernization initiatives * Provide strategic program oversight for technical ...

Program Manager

Beavercreek, OH · On-site

$120 - $160/hr

The ideal candidate possesses a strong combination of program management expertise and technical understanding across defense systems, mission operations, communications architectures, systems ...

New

Program Manager

Beavercreek, OH · On-site

$131K - $237K/yr

The ideal candidate possesses a strong combination of program management expertise and technical understanding across defense systems, mission operations, communications architectures, systems ...

Program Manager

Beavercreek, OH · On-site

$131K - $237K/yr

The ideal candidate possesses a strong combination of program management expertise and technical understanding across defense systems, mission operations, communications architectures, systems ...

This role requires a highly experienced program manager capable of leading complex defense programs across the full acquisition lifecycle while ensuring delivery of mission-critical capabilities on ...

This role requires a highly experienced program manager capable of leading complex defense programs across the full acquisition lifecycle while ensuring delivery of mission-critical capabilities on ...

Your contributions will be pivotal in designing and optimizing defense systems that ensure national security and shape the future of space defense. KBR is seeking a Program Manager to support the ...

Your contributions will be pivotal in designing and optimizing defense systems that ensure national security and shape the future of space defense. KBR is seeking a Program Manager to support the ...

Program Manager Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR! KBR's National Security Solutions team provides ... Your contributions will be pivotal in designing and optimizing defense systems that ensure national ...

... defense. This is a full-time opportunity at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base (AFB), OH ... Provides expert-level oversight of program and functional managers across a broad portfolio of ...

Program Manager

Riverside, OH · On-site

$120 - $150/hr

... defense. This is a full-time opportunity at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base (AFB), OH ... Provides expert-level oversight of program and functional managers across a broad portfolio of ...

New

Apogee is looking for a talented Senior Program Manager Tech to support the National Air and Space ... defense. This is a full-time opportunity at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base (AFB), OH.

... defense. This is a full-time opportunity at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base (AFB), OH ... Provides expert-level oversight of program and functional managers across a broad portfolio of ...

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Program Manager Defense information

See Dayton, OH salary details

$37.4K

$104.4K

$152.6K

How much do program manager defense jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for program manager defense in Dayton, OH is $104,447.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,300.00 and $128,800.00 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 are popular job titles related to Program Manager Defense jobs in Dayton, OH?

For Program Manager Defense jobs in Dayton, OH, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Program Manager Defense jobs in Dayton, OH look for?

The top searched job categories for Program Manager Defense jobs in Dayton, OH are:

What cities near Dayton, OH are hiring for Program Manager Defense jobs?

Cities near Dayton, OH with the most Program Manager Defense job openings:

Infographic showing various Program Manager Defense job openings in Dayton, OH as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,447 per year, or $50.2 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

Overview
WiSC Enterprises is seeking an experienced and mission-focused Program Manager to support Department of Defense (DoD), Intelligence Community (IC), and Federal programs involving national security, defense modernization, acquisition support, systems integration, and mission operations.
The Program Manager will provide leadership, strategic oversight, and operational management across complex technical and mission support programs. This role requires expertise in program execution, stakeholder engagement, acquisition support, risk management, and coordination of multidisciplinary teams supporting mission-critical initiatives.
The successful candidate will serve as a trusted advisor to government customers while overseeing program performance, schedules, budgets, contract execution, and delivery of technical and operational solutions aligned with customer mission objectives.
This is a full-time position supporting onsite, hybrid, or customer-location environments based on program requirements.
Responsibilities
  • Lead and manage complex defense, intelligence, and Federal programs supporting mission-critical operations and modernization initiatives
  • Provide strategic program oversight for technical, operational, engineering, acquisition, and mission support activities
  • Manage program execution across cost, schedule, performance, staffing, and risk management objectives
  • Coordinate with government stakeholders, contractors, engineers, analysts, and mission partners to ensure successful program delivery
  • Develop and maintain program plans, schedules, Integrated Master Schedules (IMS), risk registers, and status reporting processes
  • Support acquisition lifecycle activities including requirements development, acquisition planning, source selection support, and contract execution
  • Monitor program performance metrics and recommend corrective actions to ensure successful mission outcomes
  • Lead program reviews, technical interchange meetings, executive briefings, and stakeholder engagements
  • Oversee development of acquisition documentation, technical reports, statements of work (SOW), performance work statements (PWS), and program deliverables
  • Support budget planning, financial management, earned value management (EVM), and resource allocation activities
  • Coordinate cross-functional teams supporting engineering, cybersecurity, cloud modernization, infrastructure, intelligence, and operational programs
  • Ensure compliance with applicable DoD, IC, Federal acquisition, cybersecurity, and program management policies and standards
  • Identify opportunities for process improvement, operational efficiencies, and mission enhancement initiatives
  • Support proposal development, capture activities, technical solutioning, and business development efforts as required

Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Program Management, Engineering, Information Technology, National Security Studies, or related field
  • 10+ years of experience managing DoD, IC, or Federal programs
  • Experience supporting defense acquisition, systems integration, intelligence operations, or mission support programs
  • Strong knowledge of program management methodologies, lifecycle management, and acquisition processes
  • Experience managing program schedules, budgets, staffing, risks, and customer relationships
  • Familiarity with DoD acquisition frameworks, Federal contracting processes, and program execution activities
  • Strong leadership, organizational, and problem-solving capabilities
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including executive-level briefing experience
  • Ability to lead multidisciplinary teams in dynamic mission environments
  • Active Secret clearance required; Top Secret/SCI preferred

Desired Qualifications
  • Master's degree in Business Administration, Engineering, Program Management, or related discipline
  • Experience supporting Air Force, Space Force, Intelligence Community, or defense modernization initiatives
  • Knowledge of Agile methodologies, digital engineering, DevSecOps, or cloud modernization efforts
  • Experience supporting large-scale enterprise or mission systems programs
  • Familiarity with Earned Value Management (EVM), risk management frameworks, and strategic planning processes
  • Relevant certifications such as:
    • PMP (Project Management Professional)
    • DAWIA Certification
    • FAC-P/PM
    • SAFe Agilist
    • Lean Six Sigma
    • Security+
  • Experience supporting proposal efforts, capture management, and technical/business development activities