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Program Manager Defense Jobs in Milwaukee, WI (NOW HIRING)

Fathom Mfg

Program Manager

Hartland, WI · On-site

$90K - $130K/yr

... technology, defense, aerospace, medical, automotive and IOT sectors. Fathom's extensive ... As a Senior Technical Program Manager at Fathom Manufacturing, you will be the bridge between our ...

ATI

Sales Manager

Cudahy, WI · On-site

Our products support diverse markets and industries such as aerospace and defense, oil & gas ... Leads and directs program team while coordinating activities within ATI and within local sales ...

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All JobsProgram Defense JobsProgram Manager Defense JobsProgram Manager Defense Jobs in Milwaukee, WI

Program Manager Defense information

See Milwaukee, WI salary details

$37.9K

$105.9K

$154.7K

How much do program manager defense jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for program manager defense in Milwaukee, WI is $105,875.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,300.00 and $130,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Program Manager in 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 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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Program Manager in Defense, and why are they important?

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 in the defense sector 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 are popular job titles related to Program Manager Defense jobs in Milwaukee, WI? For Program Manager Defense jobs in Milwaukee, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Program Manager Defense jobs in Milwaukee, WI look for? The top searched job categories for Program Manager Defense jobs in Milwaukee, WI are:
Program Manager Defense jobs near you
Infographic showing various Program Manager Defense job openings in Milwaukee, WI as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 3% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,875 per year, or $50.9 per hour.

Program Manager

Fathom Mfg

Hartland, WI • On-site

$90K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Company History: Fathom is one of the largest digital manufacturing platforms offering on-demand manufacturing in North America. With more than 90 large-platform industrial-grade 3D printing machines and a national footprint with more than 500,000 square feet of manufacturing capacity across 10 facilities, Fathom seamlessly blends in-house capabilities across plastic and metal additive technologies, CNC machining, injection molding & tooling, urethane casting, sheet metal fabrication, and design and engineering.

With over 50 years of industry experience, Fathom is at the forefront of the industry 4.0 digital manufacturing revolution serving clients in the technology, defense, aerospace, medical, automotive and IOT sectors. Fathom’s extensive certifications include ISO 9001:2015, ISO 9001:2015 Design, ISO 13485:2016, AS9100:2016, NIST 800-171 and ITAR.


Position/Job Summary:

As a Senior Technical Program Manager at Fathom Manufacturing, you will be the bridge between our customers, engineering teams, and production operations. You’ll lead complex, multi-disciplinary manufacturing programs from concept through delivery, ensuring timelines, budgets, and quality standards are met. This role requires a strong technical background, exceptional communication skills, and a passion for driving results in a fast-paced environment.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Lead cross-functional teams to deliver custom manufacturing solutions on time and within scope
  • Translate customer requirements into actionable engineering and production plans
  • Manage program schedules, budgets, risk assessments, and resource allocation
  • Serve as the primary point of contact for customers throughout the program lifecycle
  • Collaborate with sales, engineering, and operations to ensure alignment and execution
  • Continuously improving program management processes and tools
  • Track KPIs and report program status to internal stakeholders and clients
  • Timely delivery of projects
  • Strong customer loyalty, as reflected in Net Promoter Score (NPS) feedback
  • High customer retention and repeat business
  • Operational efficiency and continuous improvement
  • Projects delivered within budget

Qualifications/Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, or related field (Master’s preferred)
  • 5+ years of experience in technical program or project management, preferably in advanced manufacturing
  • Strong understanding of manufacturing processes (e.g., CNC, injection molding, additive manufacturing)
  • Proven ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously
  • Excellent communication, negotiation, and organizational skills
  • Proficiency in project management tools (e.g., MS Project, Smartsheet, Jira)
  • Familiar with ISO, AS, NIST & ITAR Requirements
  • PMP or similar certification is a plus

What we offer:

Health Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision coverage. Company paid for Life insurance, short-term and long-term disability insurance.

Additional Benefits: Paid time off, Floating Holidays, Volunteer time off, and sick time off (depending on state of employment). 401k Plan

Employee Perks: Discounts on products and services.


Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled

This employer participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S. If E-Verify cannot confirm that you are authorized to work, this employer is required to give you written instructions and an opportunity to contact Department of Homeland Security (DHS) or Social Security Administration (SSA) so you can begin to resolve the issue before the employer can take any action against you, including terminating your employment. Employers can only use E-Verify once you have accepted a job offer and completed the Form I-9.