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Program Manager Defense Jobs in Detroit, MI (NOW HIRING)

ROUSH

Program Manager

Livonia, MI · On-site

... the aerospace, defense and theme park industries. With over 2,400 employees in facilities ... The Program Manager will manage multiple programs and teams to ensure program goals are achieved ...

ROUSH

Program Manager

Livonia, MI · On-site

... the aerospace, defense and theme park industries. With over 2,400 employees in facilities ... The Program Manager will manage multiple programs and teams to ensure program goals are achieved ...

Roush

Program Manager

Livonia, MI

... the aerospace, defense and theme park industries. With over 2,400 employees in facilities ... The Program Manager will manage multiple programs and teams to ensure program goals are achieved ...

ROUSH

Program Manager

Livonia, MI · On-site

... the aerospace, defense and theme park industries. With over 2,400 employees in facilities ... The Program Manager will oversee multiple programs and teams, guiding projects from initial quote ...

ROUSH

Program Manager

Livonia, MI · On-site

... the aerospace, defense and theme park industries. With over 2,400 employees in facilities ... The Program Manager will oversee multiple programs and teams, guiding projects from initial quote ...

ROUSH

Senior Program Manager

Livonia, MI · On-site

$108K - $109K/yr

... the aerospace, defense, and theme park industries. With over 2,400 employees in facilities ... The Senior Program Manager will manage multiple programs and teams to ensure program goals are ...

ROUSH

Prototype Program Manager

Livonia, MI · On-site

... the aerospace, defense and theme park industries. With over 2,400 employees in facilities ... The Prototype Program Manager will lead a cross functional program team for the life cycle of the ...

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Program Manager Defense information

See Detroit, MI salary details

$38.1K

$106.4K

$155.4K

How much do program manager defense jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for program manager defense in Detroit, MI is $106,382.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,700.00 and $131,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Program Manager in 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 in Defense, and why are they important?

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 in the defense sector 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 Detroit, MI? For Program Manager Defense jobs in Detroit, MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Program Manager Defense jobs in Detroit, MI look for? The top searched job categories for Program Manager Defense jobs in Detroit, MI are:
What cities near Detroit, MI are hiring for Program Manager Defense jobs? Cities near Detroit, MI with the most Program Manager Defense job openings:
Program Manager Defense jobs near you
Infographic showing various Program Manager Defense job openings in Detroit, MI as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 90% In-person, 5% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $106,382 per year, or $51.1 per hour.

Program Manager

ROUSH

Livonia, MI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago

Roush rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 38 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

190th of 417 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

Roush works alongside the best and brightest to do incredibly cool things you wouldn't believe. At Roush, you're part of building the future. Are you someone that has a passion for providing innovative solutions to complex challenges? Do you want to work someplace where creativity and new ideas are encouraged? If so, then keep reading.
We fuse technology and engineering to provide product development solutions to customers in a diverse range of industries. Widely recognized for providing engineering, testing, prototype, and manufacturing services to the transportation industry, Roush also provides significant support to the aerospace, defense and theme park industries. With over 2,400 employees in facilities throughout the United States, Europe, Asia, and South America, our unique combination of creativity and tenacity activates big ideas on a global stage.
The Program Manager will manage multiple programs and teams to ensure program goals are achieved for the Advanced Composites department.. The role will interact with multiple customers and cross functional teams. The Program Manager will lead program teams(s) from quoting through completion of programs.
👉 Click here to get a behind-the-scenes look at our cutting-edge Advanced Composites Lab.
Responsibilities:
  • Manage business aspects of multiple concurrent programs and ensure financial targets and timing are met while maintaining established quality standards.
  • Manage, lead, train, coach, and mentor program team(s) related to their job responsibilities.
  • Plan, schedule, and oversee coordinator activities and monitor program(s) status.
  • Actively maintain customer relationships to ensure customer satisfaction and quality of service.
  • Managing all activities associated with materials, budgeting, and production for assigned programs(s).
  • Act as liaison with the customer and program staff to properly identify and process scope changes, address issues and communicate regarding program milestones.
  • Managing program related correspondence and documents through designated document management systems.
  • Ensuring adherence to Roush's standards of quality, safety, and best practices along with customer specific requirements.
  • Direct and manage coordination groups that assign goals for subcontractors.
  • Develop and execute large program plans. Manage day-to-day build operations supporting department management. Manage the execution of continuous quality improvement activities.
  • Collect data from customers, suppliers, Bill of Material, and other resources to prepare presentations and reports. Review program(s) status daily and report percentage of completion.
Minimum requirements:
  • Bachelor's degree in business or engineering.
  • Minimum of 4 years of managing projects and programs.
  • Minimum of 2 years of formal or informal leadership experience.
  • U.S. citizen under International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) compliance.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of program management tools and processes (change control, risk identification, phase gate).
  • Proven customer relationship skills including the ability to interpret customer requests and deliverables with a focus on cost, quality and delivery.
  • Possess excellent written and verbal communication skills, able to effectively host presentations and work with cross functional teams.
  • Expert skills in Microsoft Office: Word, Excel, and Project. Microsoft Excel is a large part of job responsibilities.
  • Must have excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, the ability to follow directions and prioritize a wide range of assignments.
Preferred skills/experience:
  • Experience with aerospace-related projects or programs.
  • Experience with composite and carbon fiber engineering.
  • Experience with people management and team leadership, direct or indirect.
  • Working knowledge of program management tools (risk analyses, communication plans, timing plans, business cases, comprehensive financial analyses).
  • Strong leadership and management skills, ability to solve complex problems, work independently, and be customer focused while managing cost, quality, and delivery.

Our full-time benefits include: medical, dental, vision, life insurance, earned sick time, STD, LTD, 401K, tuition reimbursement, employee referral bonuses, paid vacation, paid holidays.
Visit our website: www.roush.com
Like us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/RoushCareers
Roush is an EO employer - Veterans/Disabled and other protected categories
If you need a reasonable accommodation for our employment application process due to disability, please contact Roush Talent Acquisition at (734) 779-7087.

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