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Program Manager Defense Jobs in Lexington, KY (NOW HIRING)

Premier Martial Arts

Program Director

Lexington, KY · On-site

$15 - $20/hr

Manage the full membership sales cycle * Track daily tasks and numbers in our software * Hit ... As for our adult members, we must expand our knowledge in real-world self-defense and fitness to ...

L3HHCM20

Principal, Business Development

Frankfort, KY · On-site +1

In lieu of a degree, minimum of 16 years of prior related experience (Related work experience is defined as military or Department of Defense business development, engineering or program management ...

L3HHCM20

Principal, Business Development

Frankfort, KY · On-site +1

In lieu of a degree, minimum of 16 years of prior related experience (Related work experience is defined as military or Department of Defense business development, engineering or program management ...

Pro2Serve

Senior Financial Analyst

Lexington, KY · On-site

$74K - $93K/yr

... program management and integration, cost engineering, architecture and engineering (A-E ... We support the energy, defense, and science markets through responsive, cost-effective execution of ...

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Program Manager Defense information

See Lexington, KY salary details

$38.3K

$106.8K

$156K

How much do program manager defense jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for program manager defense in Lexington, KY is $106,806.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,000.00 and $131,700.00 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 job categories do people searching Program Manager Defense jobs in Lexington, KY look for?

The top searched job categories for Program Manager Defense jobs in Lexington, KY are:

Program Manager Defense jobs near you

Supervisory Program Specialist (Unmanned aerial Systems)

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)

Richmond, KY • On-site

$106K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

U.S. Department Of Defense rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 538 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

27th of 49 rated military and defense

Job description

About the Position: This position is with the Blue Grass Army Depot located at Richmond, Kentucky. This position This position serves as the Supervisory Program Specialist (Unmanned Aerial Systems), managing the Blue Grass Army Depot UAS Innovation Hub and overseeing UAS testing andcertification.Qualifications:

Who May Apply: Only applicants who meet one of the employment authority categories below are eligible to apply for this job. You will be asked to identify which category or categories you meet, and to provide documents which prove you meet the category or categories you selected. See Proof of Eligibility for an extensive list of document requirements for all employment authorities.

  • 30 Percent or More Disabled Veterans
  • Current Department of Army Civilian Employees
  • Current Department of Defense (DOD) Civilian Employee (non-Army)
  • Domestic Defense Industrial Base/Major Range and Test Facilities Base Civilian Personnel Workforce
  • Interagency Career Transition Assistance Plan
  • Land Management Workforce Flexibility Act
  • Military Spouses, under Executive Order (E.O.) 13473
  • Non-Department of Defense (DoD) Transfer
  • Priority Placement Program, DoD Military Reserve (MR) and National Guard (NG) Technician Eligible
  • Priority Placement Program, DoD Military Spouse Preference (MSP) Eligible
  • Priority Placement Program, DoD MR and NG Preference Eligible Tech Receiving Disability Retirement
  • Priority Placement Program, DoD Retained Grade Preference Eligible
  • Reinstatement
  • Veterans Employment Opportunity Act (VEOA) of 1998

In order to qualify, you must meet the experience requirements described below. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student; social). You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Your resume must clearly describe your relevant experience; if qualifying based on education, your transcripts will be required as part of your application. Additional information about transcripts is in this document.
Specialized Experience: : One year of specialized experience which includes: Ensuring Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) policies are met; Recommending improvements for future projects by reviewing technical data; and Creating project plans for Unmanned Aerial System. This definition of specialized experience is typical of work performed at the next lower grade/level position in the federal service (GS-12)
Some federal jobs allow you to substitute your education for the required experience in order to qualify. For this job, you must meet the qualification requirement using experience alone--no substitution of education for experience is permitted.
Time in Grade Requirement: Applicants who have held a General Schedule (GS) position within the last 52 weeks must have 52 weeks of Federal service at the next lower grade or equivalent (GS-12).Education:This job does not have an education qualification requirement.Employment Type: OTHER

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