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

Program Account Manager MacroFab, Inc. | Houston, TX | On-Site | Business Development About ... S. Department of Defense. MacroFab is ISO 9001:2015 certified and ITAR registered, with over 5 ...

Program Analyst

Houston, TX ยท On-site

$100 - $130/hr

The Program Analyst will support the PLTD Project by conducting analysis of information affecting ... Experience in Defense contracting or Defense financial management. * Current DoD Secret (or Higher ...

New

Program Analyst

Houston, TX ยท On-site

$100 - $130/hr

The Program Analyst will support the PLTD Project by conducting analysis of information affecting ... Experience in Defense contracting or Defense financial management. * Current DoD Secret (or Higher ...

The Program Analyst will support the PLTD Project by conducting analysis of information affecting ... Experience in Defense contracting or Defense financial management. * Current DoD Secret (or Higher ...

The Program Analyst will support the PLTD Project by conducting analysis of information affecting ... Experience in Defense contracting or Defense financial management. * Current DoD Secret (or Higher ...

Showing results 21-40

Program Manager Defense information

See Houston, TX salary details

$36.8K

$102.6K

$149.9K

How much do program manager defense jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for program manager defense in Houston, TX is $102,622.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,900.00 and $126,500.00 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 Houston, TX?

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Program Manager Defense job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,622 per year, or $49.3 per hour.

Deputy Project Manager with Security Clearance

Amentum

Houston, TX โ€ข On-site

$111K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

*This position is contingent upon contract award* Amentum is seeking a seasoned professional to serve as the Deputy Program Manager (DPM) for the Phased-Launch Test Delivery (PLTD) project. The DPM will support the PLTD Program Manager (PM) in the completion of contractual requirements and contractual reporting requirements. The DPM will also perform key management, reviews, and controls of financials/procurement related items in support of the project. The PLTD project/team is a key element of the U.S. Navy's launch test facilities Research and Development (R&D) program. This R&D program is a top priority for our nation and supports both U.S. Navy Submarine and Surface Ship weapons system capability testing. Key Responsibilities: * Ensure project compliance with FAR, dFARs, federal regulations, and company policies/procedures. * Review, understand, and assist with the management of the project contract and contract deliverables. * Assist the PM in the management of the project budget using established budget tracking tools. * Assist with the development of new/updated budget tracking tools (as needed). * Identify any potential issues or shortfalls with the project budget and develop/implement strategies to correct issues when they arise. * Review project financial documentation to include contract mods, invoices, funding documents, sole source justifications, purchase orders, etc. * Ensure that management and contract reports are accurate before submission. * Work with the Amentum business team to ensure sub-contractors are paid in a timely manner. * Support ad hoc financial analytics and budget adjustment requests. * Manage the customers' expectations with proactive, consistent, and transparent communication. * Ensure timely processing and execution of procurements or actions required by the government customer. * Conduct communications with the COR and government leadership (as necessary). * Work with the PM to resolve various project-related issues that may arise of the course of the project. Required Qualifications: * Bachelor's degree in business management, accounting, program management, economics or closely related field. * Extensive knowledge of FAR, dFARs, and other contractual/regulatory requirements. * At least (6) years of contracting, financial, and/or accounting experience. * At least (4) years of leadership/managerial experience. * Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Preferred Qualifications: * Masters Degree in business management, accounting, program management, economics or closely related field. * Experience in Defense contracting or Defense financial management. * Current DoD Secret (or Higher) security clearance. * Experience with Amentum processes/procedures. * Familiarity with Costpoint accounting software. Security & Clearance: * Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S government security clearance. Note: US Citizenship is required to obtain a U.S government security clearance. Work Environment: * This position is based in Houston, TX. Expected travel is less than 33% and is typically planned well in advance. This role involves supporting federal customers and contracting partners across the U.S. Compensation Details:
$120,000.00-$165,000.00 The compensation range or hourly rate listed for this position is provided as a good-faith estimate of what the company intends to offer for this role at the time this posting was issued. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as job responsibilities, education, experience, skills, internal equity, market data, applicable collective bargaining agreements, and relevant laws. Benefits Overview: Our health and welfare benefits are designed to support you and your priorities. Offerings include: * Health, dental, and vision insurance * Paid time off and holidays * Retirement benefits (including 401(k) matching) * Educational reimbursement * Parental leave * Employee stock purchase plan * Tax-saving options * Disability and life insurance * Pet insurance Note: Benefits may vary based on employment type, location, and applicable agreements. Positions governed by a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the McNamara-O'Hara Service Contract Act (SCA), or other employment contracts may include different provisions/benefits. Original Posting:
07/22/2026 - Until Filled
Amentum anticipates this job requisition will remain open for at least three days, with a closing date no earlier than three days after the original posting. This timeline may change based on business needs. Amentum is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our hiring practices provide equal opportunity for employment without regard to race, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or medical conditions related to pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding), age, ancestry, United States military or veteran status, color, religion, creed, marital or domestic partner status, medical condition, genetic information, national origin, citizenship status, low-income status, or mental or physical disability so long as the essential functions of the job can be performed with or without reasonable accommodation, or any other protected category under federal, state, or local law. Learn more about your rights under Federal laws and supplemental language at Labor Laws Posters .