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Program Manager Defense Jobs in Howard City, MI (NOW HIRING)

Vice President Engineering

Muskegon, MI ยท On-site

$166K - $214K/yr

... a defense manufacturing environment. This role provides technical leadership, ensures disciplined engineering processes, and partners closely with Program Management, Operations, Quality, and ...

S. government contracting regulations, including cost accounting and program reporting. * Support pricing and cost proposals for new defense contracts. Reporting & Compliance: * Manage monthly ...

Quality Engineer

Rockford, MI ยท On-site

$61K - $78K/yr

RTCA is a precision aerospace and defense manufacturing group built on decades of hands-on ... Collaborates with external and internal customers, including Manufacturing, Program Management ...

Robotic Welder-Alma, Michigan

Crystal, MI

$19.25 - $26.50/hr

We build ships, defense systems, aerospace components, and heavy steel structures that serve ... This position will communicate with team members and management regarding job status and quality ...

Robotic Welder-Alma, Michigan

Mcbride, MI ยท On-site

$16.25 - $22.25/hr

We build ships, defense systems, aerospace components, and heavy steel structures that serve ... This position will communicate with team members and management regarding job status and quality ...

... managed through Chaplain Corps boards that assess performance, potential, and endorsement status ... Education Education benefits are available through standard Navy programs such as Tuition ...

Chaplain

Mecosta, MI ยท On-site

... managed through Chaplain Corps boards that assess performance, potential, and endorsement status ... Education Education benefits are available through standard Navy programs such as Tuition ...

Chaplain

Greenville, MI ยท On-site

... managed through Chaplain Corps boards that assess performance, potential, and endorsement status ... Education Education benefits are available through standard Navy programs such as Tuition ...

Chaplain

Fruitport, MI ยท On-site

... managed through Chaplain Corps boards that assess performance, potential, and endorsement status ... Education Education benefits are available through standard Navy programs such as Tuition ...

... managed through Chaplain Corps boards that assess performance, potential, and endorsement status ... Education Education benefits are available through standard Navy programs such as Tuition ...

... managed through Chaplain Corps boards that assess performance, potential, and endorsement status ... Education Education benefits are available through standard Navy programs such as Tuition ...

... managed through Chaplain Corps boards that assess performance, potential, and endorsement status ... Education Education benefits are available through standard Navy programs such as Tuition ...

... managed through Chaplain Corps boards that assess performance, potential, and endorsement status ... Education Education benefits are available through standard Navy programs such as Tuition ...

RTCA is a precision aerospace and defense manufacturing group built on decades of hands-on ... We support mission-critical commercial and government aerospace programs across North America ...

Program Manager Defense information

See Howard City, MI salary details

$34K

$94.9K

$138.7K

How much do program manager defense jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for program manager defense in Howard City, MI is $94,902.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,200.00 and $117,000.00 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 cities near Howard City, MI are hiring for Program Manager Defense jobs?

Cities near Howard City, MI with the most Program Manager Defense job openings:

Infographic showing various Program Manager Defense job openings in Howard City, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,902 per year, or $45.6 per hour.

Vice President Supply Chain - North America

Muskegon, MI โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

The Vice President of Supply Chain, North America oversees all strategic and operational procurement activities for the region within a federal defense manufacturing environment. This leader is responsible for developing supplier strategies, ensuring compliant sourcing aligned with FAR/DFARS requirements, and driving cost, quality, and delivery performance across a complex supply base. The role partners extensively with Operations, Engineering, Program Management, Contracts, Quality, and Global Supply Chain to ensure procurement excellence that supports mission-critical defense programs.

  • Lead and develop the North America procurement organization, including strategic sourcing, tactical buying, subcontract management, and supplier development.
  • Build and maintain a resilent, high--performing supply base that meets quality, cost, delivery, cyber compliance, and security requirements.
  • Oversee end-to-end sourcing strategies for direct materials, engineered components, services, and critical defense technologies.
  • Ensure full compliance with federal acquisition regulations (FARS/DFARS), ITAR, and internal policies governing supplier selection, documentation, cost/price analysis, and audit readiness.
  • Partner closely with Engineering, Program Management and Global Procurement to align procurement execution with program schedules, technical requirements, and customer commitments.
  • Identify and mitigate supplier risks across quality, financial health, geopolitical considerations, and capacity constraints; implement supplier recovery and performance management plans as needed.
  • Drive cost-reduction initiatives, long-term sourcing agreements, and value-engineering activities.
  • Oversee negotiation of complex contracts, subcontracts, and long-term agreements, ensuring favorable terms aligned with federal contracting expectations.
  • Collaborate with global procurement leadership to align regional sourcing strategies with enterprise-wide goals.
  • Provide executive-level reporting on supplier performance, key risks, cost trends, and major procurement initiatives.
  • Champion digital tools, analytics, and process improvements to increase procurement efficiency and transparency.
  • Ensure the procurement team is trained and capable in regulatory compliance, negotiation, technical aptitude, supplier management, and documentation accuracy.