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Program Manager Defense Jobs in Fairfax, VA (NOW HIRING)

Curtiss-Wright

Program Manager

Ashburn, VA · On-site

Program Manager - Defense Solutions - Onsite Position Come join our family as our Program Manager for a family of programs in Ashburn, VA As our Program Manager, you will work with the most ...

Curtisswright

Program Manager

Ashburn, VA · On-site

Program Manager - Defense Solutions - Onsite Position Come join our family as our Program Manager for a family of programs in Ashburn, VA As our Program Manager, you will work with the most i ...

Agile Defense

Program Manager

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$150K - $165K/yr

About Agile Defense At Agile Defense we know that action defines the outcome and new challenges ... Program Manager Location: Ashburn, VA Clearance Level: Secret, Must Have Clearance to Start ...

Agile Defense

Program Manager

Ashburn, VA · Hybrid

$150K - $165K/yr

About Agile Defense At Agile Defense we know that action defines the outcome and new challenges ... Program Manager Location: Ashburn, VA Clearance Level: Secret, Must Have Clearance to Start ...

Agile Defense

Program Manager

Reston, VA · Hybrid

About Agile Defense At Agile Defense we know that action defines the outcome and new challenges ... Program Manager Location: Reston, VA Clearance Level: TS (SCI Eligible) SUMMARY Agile Defense is ...

Agile Defense

Program Manager

Reston, VA · On-site

About Agile Defense At Agile Defense we know that action defines the outcome and new challenges ... Program Manager Location: Reston, VA Clearance Level: TS (SCI Eligible) SUMMARY Agile Defense is ...

Obsidian Solutions Group LLC

Program Manager

Quantico, VA · On-site

$117K - $155K/yr

Description Program Manager Primary Location: Quantico, VA (with travel to distributed MISTCs as ... Master's degree in Management, Defense Studies, or related discipline preferred. Equivalent ...

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Program Manager Defense information

See Fairfax, VA salary details

$39.4K

$109.8K

$160.5K

How much do program manager defense jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for program manager defense in Fairfax, VA is $109,842.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,300.00 and $135,400.00 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 Fairfax, VA?

For Program Manager Defense jobs in Fairfax, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Program Manager Defense jobs in Fairfax, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Program Manager Defense jobs in Fairfax, VA are:

What cities near Fairfax, VA are hiring for Program Manager Defense jobs?

Cities near Fairfax, VA with the most Program Manager Defense job openings:

Program Manager Defense jobs near you
Infographic showing various Program Manager Defense job openings in Fairfax, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,842 per year, or $52.8 per hour.

Job Program Manager (Defense Acquisition)

Millennium Corporation

Fort Belvoir, VA • On-site

Other

Posted yesterday

New

Job description

Program Manager

Millennium Corporation is hiring a Program Manager to work onsite in Ft Belvoir, VA. The candidate must have an active secret clearance.

Responsibilities include:

  • Provides day to day direction for a group of subordinates
  • Provides expert functional guidance to employees
  • Interfaces with Government management to resolve problems
  • Establishes priorities of work to subordinates based on Government goals and objectives
  • Interfaces between Government customer and Contractor
  • Performs other PM direct support functional roles
  • Distribute and balance workload in accordance with established workflows and assure timely accomplishment of the assigned workload.
  • Give on the job training to new employees in accordance with established procedures and practices
  • Lead the team in assessing its strengths and weaknesses and provide leadership to the team in exploring alternatives and determining improvements
  • Articulate and communicate to the team the assignment, problem to be solved, actionable events, milestones, suspenses and time frames for completion
  • Assigns work to personnel according to workload, ability and priority of assignment and provides instruction and assistance as necessary on problems or issues

Qualifications include:

  • Candidate must have an active secret clearance.
  • Bachelor's Degree and 20 years of total experience.

Demonstrated competency in:

  • Communication (written and oral)
  • Leadership
  • Team management
  • Negotiation
  • Personal organization
  • Risk management
  • Defense Acquisition System

Business Development activities include:

Assist with Business Development activities as required to support Millennium's strategic business objectives, which may include but not limited to participation in technical interviews, creation of technical documentation, general proposal writing support and proposal color reviews.

Physical Requirements include:

  • Must be comfortable with prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
  • Must be able to lift up to 10-15 pounds at a time.

Apply