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

Albers Aerospace

Program Manager

Mckinney, TX · On-site

$110 - $150/hr

We know defense and we know aircraft systems. Albers Aerospace is seeking experienced Program Managers to support growth across multiple contract programs and business areas. This role is central to ...

Albers Aerospace

Program Manager

Mckinney, TX · On-site

We know defense and we know aircraft systems. Albers Aerospace is seeking experienced Program Managers to support growth across multiple contract programs and business areas. This role is central to ...

Shield AI

Program Manager (R4930)

Dallas, TX

$110K - $160K/yr

Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company with the mission of protecting service members ... Seeking a Program Manager to lead execution and operational maturity for global Company-Owned ...

Shield AI

Program Manager (R4930)

Dallas, TX · On-site

Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company with the mission of protecting service members ... Seeking a Program Manager to lead execution and operational maturity for global Company-Owned ...

Shield AI

Program Manager (R4930)

Dallas, TX · On-site

$110K - $160K/yr

Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company with the mission of protecting service members ... Seeking a Program Manager to lead execution and operational maturity for global Company-Owned ...

Western Alliance Bank

Program Manager

Dallas, TX · On-site

... of defense. Document and drive continuous process improvement for Program Management as well as ... other maturity opportunities as outlined in the strategic plan. * May lead and develop a team ...

Shield AI

Senior Program Manager (R4932)

Dallas, TX · On-site

$140K - $210K/yr

Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company with the mission of protecting service members ... The Senior Program Manager will lead the execution and growth of Navy Intelligence, Surveillance ...

Shield AI

Senior Program Manager (R4932)

Dallas, TX · On-site

$114K - $115K/yr

Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company with the mission of protecting service members ... The Senior Program Manager will lead the execution and growth of Navy Intelligence, Surveillance ...

Shield AI

Senior Program Manager (R4932)

Dallas, TX · On-site

$140K - $210K/yr

Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company with the mission of protecting service members ... The Senior Program Manager will lead the execution and growth of Navy Intelligence, Surveillance ...

OSI Systems, Inc

Program Manager

Richardson, TX · On-site

$107K - $135K/yr

Bachelor's degree in business, finance, project management, engineering or related field * 5 years of experience in Program Management, engineering coordination, manufacturing programs, defense ...

OSI Systems, Inc

Program Manager

Richardson, TX · On-site

$107K - $135K/yr

Bachelor's degree in business, finance, project management, engineering or related field * 5 years of experience in Program Management, engineering coordination, manufacturing programs, defense ...

II-VI Aerospace & Defense

Program Manager

Sherman, TX · On-site

Manage and drive internal resources to document and complete customer checkpoints such as OK2EPI, OK2FAB, OK2TEST and OK2SENDMP, and others as required. * Execute programs to deliver on time, within ...

OSI Systems, Inc

Program Manager

Richardson, TX · On-site

$110K - $140K/yr

Government, Department of Defense, Navy, prime contractor, or similar defense customer programs is strongly preferred * PMP certification * Proficiency in data and program management tools such as ...

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All JobsProgram Defense JobsProgram Manager Defense JobsProgram Manager Defense Jobs in McKinney, TX

Program Manager Defense information

See McKinney, TX salary details

$35.7K

$99.7K

$145.7K

How much do program manager defense jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for program manager defense in McKinney, TX is $99,727.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,800.00 and $123,000.00 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 are popular job titles related to Program Manager Defense jobs in McKinney, TX?

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

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

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

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

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

Program Manager Defense jobs near you
Infographic showing various Program Manager Defense job openings in McKinney, 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 $99,727 per year, or $47.9 per hour.

Program Manager - Military & Defense Avionics

Links Technology Solutions, Inc.

Irving, TX • On-site

$110 - $149/hr

Other

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Program Manager – Military & Defense Avionics

Location: Irving, TX
Travel: Up to 5-15% Travel
Industry: Aerospace & Defense
Salary: $130,000

Position Overview

We are currently seeking an experienced Program Manager – Military & Defense Avionics for one of our leading aerospace and defense clients. This is an exciting opportunity to lead complex avionics development programs supporting next-generation military aircraft and defense technologies while collaborating with multidisciplinary engineering teams throughout the product development lifecycle.

Primary Responsibilities
  • Lead military and defense avionics development programs from kickoff through delivery.
  • Manage cross-functional Integrated Product Teams (IPTs) consisting of systems, software, hardware, mechanical, manufacturing, quality, and supply chain personnel.
  • Develop and maintain project schedules, budgets, risk registers, work breakdown structures, and program management plans.
  • Track program performance, resource utilization, milestones, and deliverables.
  • Manage customer relationships and serve as the primary point of contact throughout program execution.
  • Coordinate engineering certification efforts for avionics hardware and software.
  • Oversee environmental qualification, testing, and compliance activities.
  • Support proposal development, contract modifications, and change management.
  • Monitor program risks and implement mitigation strategies.
  • Ensure compliance with applicable aerospace, defense, quality, cybersecurity, export control, and contractual requirements.
  • Prepare executive-level status reports and communicate program performance to leadership.
  • Drive continuous improvement while maintaining schedule, quality, and customer satisfaction.
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, or a related technical discipline.
  • Minimum of 7 years of program or project management experience in aerospace, avionics, or defense product development.
  • At least 3 years supporting military or defense programs.
  • Strong understanding of:
    • DO-178C
    • DO-254
    • DO-160
    • MIL-STD-810
    • MIL-STD-461
    • MIL-STD-882
    • FAR/DFARS requirements
  • Experience managing budgets, schedules, risks, and cross-functional engineering teams.
  • Knowledge of Earned Value Management (EVM) principles.
  • Strong leadership, communication, negotiation, and organizational skills.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office and Microsoft Project
Preferred Qualifications
  • PMP (Project Management Professional) certification.
  • Master's degree in Engineering, Engineering Management, or Business Administration.
  • Experience with AS9100 quality systems.
  • Familiarity with CMMC, NIST SP 800-171, ITAR, and Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI).
  • Experience supporting DoD customers, prime contractors, or military acquisition programs.
  • Knowledge of aircraft systems supporting fixed-wing, rotary-wing, or unmanned platforms.
Additional Requirements
  • Must qualify as a U.S. Person under ITAR regulations.
  • Ability to obtain authorization to handle Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI).
  • Ability to travel approximately 5–15% as required.
  • Must successfully complete applicable background screening.

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