ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Program Manager Defense Jobs in Denver, CO (NOW HIRING)

ICR, Inc.

Program Manager - Aurora, CO

Aurora, CO

$169K - $239K/yr

Program Manager Aurora, CO Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis for this position. ICR has ... of Defense (DoD). * Clearance: Active Top Secret security clearance with SSBI and current SCI ...

Vets2PM

DoD SkillBridge: Program Manager

Broomfield, CO · Hybrid

$135K - $155K/yr

Program Manager SkillBridge Host Company: LEAP SkillBridge Provider: Vets2PM LLC Location ... SkillBridge participants work directly with leadership, gain exposure to aerospace and defense ...

Simplesense

Technical Program Manager, Strategy

Denver, CO · On-site

$132K - $171K/yr

Simplesense is a non-traditional defense contractor and prime on the Air Force's Installation ... Technical Program Manager, Strategy Location: We prioritize candidates who reside in the Denver, CO ...

Loft Orbital Solutions

Supplier Program Manager

Golden, CO · On-site

$130K - $170K/yr

The Supplier Program Manager role is central to our success, ensuring we meet commitments across ... Experience in the aerospace, space, or defense industry * Familiarity with FAR/DFARS regulations ...

Loft Orbital Solutions

Supplier Program Manager

Golden, CO · On-site +1

$130K - $170K/yr

The Supplier Program Manager role is central to our success, ensuring we meet commitments across ... Experience in the aerospace, space, or defense industry * Familiarity with FAR/DFARS regulations ...

Loft Orbital Solutions

Supplier Program Manager

Golden, CO · On-site +1

$130K - $170K/yr

The Supplier Program Manager role is central to our success, ensuring we meet commitments across ... Experience in the aerospace, space, or defense industry * Familiarity with FAR/DFARS regulations ...

FP&C

Deputy Program Manager, Building Controls

Aurora, CO · On-site

$118K/yr

Minimum of 8 years of progressively responsible project or program management experience leading complex, multi-site, or multi-workstream delivery, including federal or Department of Defense programs.

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All JobsProgram Defense JobsProgram Manager Defense JobsProgram Manager Defense Jobs in Denver, CO

Program Manager Defense information

See Denver, CO salary details

$39.6K

$110.6K

$161.6K

How much do program manager defense jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for program manager defense in Denver, CO is $110,607.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,800.00 and $136,400.00 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 Denver, CO?

For Program Manager Defense jobs in Denver, CO, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Program Manager Defense jobs in Denver, CO look for?

The top searched job categories for Program Manager Defense jobs in Denver, CO are:

What cities near Denver, CO are hiring for Program Manager Defense jobs?

Cities near Denver, CO with the most Program Manager Defense job openings:

Program Manager Defense jobs near you
Infographic showing various Program Manager Defense job openings in Denver, CO as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $110,607 per year, or $53.2 per hour.

Senior Program Manager

York Space Systems

Greenwood Village, CO • On-site

$160K - $260K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

York Space Systems was founded to radically improve spacecraft affordability and reliability, transforming, and enabling next- generation space mission operations worldwide. Today, York is one of the most innovative aerospace companies, specializing in end-to-end customer solutions and the rapid production of spacecraft platforms. York's complete Space Segment Solution includes spacecraft production, payload integration, system integration & test, launch services, ground segment services, and mission operations, enabling customers to leverage York's existing technology solutions to get to orbit rapidly and responsively. We're looking to expand our team across the board.
The Senior Program Manager leads execution for one or more space missions or constellations, scaling beyond a single program to ensure consistent outcomes across multiple efforts. The Sr PM maintains FFP discipline, manages customer relationships and expectations, and directs cross-program resources as needed-without implying portfolio-director responsibilities. This role requires deep scar tissue from delivering complex systems, mastery of lifecycle events, and strong judgment in difficult tradeoffs. You will mentor our Program Managers, build scalable processes, and embody our mission to deliver breakthrough space capabilities faster and more efficiently than anyone else.
Required Experience and Job Requirements
Contract Acumen
  • Clear experience in leading the customer expectations on FFP (Firm Fixed Price) contracts with the USG
  • Proactively managing contract updates for additional scope requests and maintain program milestone payments
  • Protect the program from unnecessary scope growth by actively leveraging your in depth knowledge of all the contractual documents
  • Define customer expectations through clear, proactive communication and evidence-based options when issues arise

Executive Communication
  • Proactively communicate effectively and efficiently with York executives on all facets of the program to resolve issues quickly and maintain the program health: financial/programmatic/technical
  • Strategically communicate clearly with customer counterpart's leadership on the issue resolution
  • Lead strategic conversations for all key program suppliers and small company executive leadership for beneficial solutions

Classified Program Leadership
  • Strong experience in understanding security governance and documentation for execution on a program
  • Clearly demonstrates the ability to provide guidance and processes for managing access and handling data transfers
  • Ability to proactively identify security concerns in non-York facilities for testing and integration
  • Ability to work with the security team to protect the program and company from security violations

Programmatic and Technical Breadth and Depth
  • Lead full lifecycle execution for a large constellation, managing scope, schedule, budget, risks, and deliverables across the full life cycle.
  • Own the FFP baseline: track performance to plan, manage changes for added scope/revenue, and leverage contract documents in difficult customer conversations
  • Experience driving closure on programs with significant NRE
  • Drive agile, data-driven program rhythms (dashboards, metrics) to maintain program health and de-risk execution early

Driving Internal Progress in Matrixed Organization
  • Coordinate integrated teams (engineering, production, supply chain, finance, operations) and influence progress without relying on a large support org
  • Experience in high-autonomy, high-complexity environments
  • Driven to ensure the ball won't drop - experience in working outside your swim lane or standard work background
  • Ability to find innovative and low cost solutions to internal issues as they arise across the life of the program
  • Mentor PMs/DPMs on event readiness (SRR, PDR, CDR, PSR, O&S), NRE execution, and TRL maturation
  • Guide risk management for multiple efforts; lead resets/redesigns and accelerate recovery using data-driven decisions
  • Direct cross-program resourcing when needed; align teams on priorities and resolve conflicts constructively

Additional Qualifications
Required for the Role
  • Bachelor's degree in engineering, technical discipline, or related field.
  • 10+ years leading complex aerospace/defense programs with multi-vehicle or multi-program scope.
  • Prior clearance experience; TS/SCI eligibility required.
  • Ability to work full-time onsite in Greenwood Village, CO.

Preferred for the Role
  • Experience in high-autonomy, high-complexity environments (aircraft/aerospace manufacturing, oil & gas operations, high-reliability industrial systems).
  • Master's degree in engineering or management.
  • Experience in high-growth startup environments.

Benefits:
  • 100% employer-paid medical, dental, and vision insurance (subject to spousal surcharge).
  • Company holidays, floating holidays, and sick time.
  • Unlimited PTO.
  • Generous 401(k) match.
  • Participation in our discretionary annual bonus and equity programs.

In compliance with local law, we are disclosing the compensation, or a range thereof, for roles in locations where legally required. Actual salaries will vary based on several factors, including but not limited to external market data, internal equity, location, skill set, experience, and/or performance.
This role is eligible to participate in our equity award program. Any award is discretionary and not guaranteed and may be contingent upon individual and/or Company performance. The amount, timing, and terms of any equity award will be determined in accordance with the Company's equity incentive plan and applicable policies. Other rewards may include annual bonuses, short- and long-term incentives, and accomplishment-specific awards.
How To Apply
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply by clicking the "Apply" link at the top of the page. York Space Systems will be accepting applications on a rolling basis until the position is closed. York Space Systems provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, military or protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. Must have permanent authorization to work in the United States. This policy applies to all terms and conditions or employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training. YORK SPACE SYSTEMS IS AN EEO EMPLOYER.

Apply