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

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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 Aug 24, 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 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 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,875 per year, or $50.9 per hour.

Operations Program Manager

Leonardo DRS

Menomonee Falls, WI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Leonardo DRS rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

115th of 544 rated manufacturers

Job description

Job ID: 114436
The Leonardo DRS Naval Power Systems business is a trusted provider of innovative naval gas and hybrid power systems, control technology and support solutions for the U.S. Navy and navies around the world.
Job Summary
At DRS Naval Power Systems, we deliver mission-critical technologies that power and protect naval platforms around the world. We are seeking a driven and collaborative Operations Project Manager to support manufacturing operations and cross-functional execution within a fast-paced, highly regulated production environment.
This role is ideal for a project management professional who thrives on driving operational efficiency, coordinating complex manufacturing activities, and partnering across engineering, supply chain, quality, and production teams to ensure successful execution of key business initiatives.
Job Responsibilities
  • Communicate to the Operations Manager and Program Manager (PM) about all program technical, safety, or performance issues for collective resolution.
  • Communicate risks and opportunities to the Operations Manager and PM for inclusion or update in the program risk and opportunities matrix/register.
  • Execute Operations Control Account Manager (CAM) role for assigned programs, completing status sheet updates, EAC reviews, and overall schedule/budget changes/adherence.
  • Maintain overall accountability for the tactical execution of operations activities in support of the manufacturing schedule, from initial assembly releases through proper hardware shipment to the customer.
  • Ensure that the Manufacturing team has clear direction and priorities at the start of each day in support of the Manufacturing schedule.
  • Communicate any material shortages on jobs based on Planning material short list; ensure appropriate work instructions are provided to the manufacturing team, as appropriate, for the material shortage on the issued job before the assembly start date/time.
  • Ensure that the manufacturing team has the proper shop documentation and tools prior to start of the assembly build start date. Configuration control of all documents is paramount.
  • Maintain accurate manufacturing status of open non-conformance rework required on program (this includes manufacturing assembly, FAT, and final assembly).
  • Schedule and adhere to inspection events with internal quality assurance; coordinate, in collaboration with Quality Assurance, final inspection events with the customer ensuring all documentation and hardware is ready, prior to the event, for the inspection.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a related technical field
  • 5+ years of project management, manufacturing operations, or production support experience
  • Experience supporting manufacturing or industrial operations in a regulated environment preferred
  • Strong organizational, planning, and multitasking skills
  • Demonstrated ability to manage cross-functional projects and competing priorities
  • Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and project management tools
  • Knowledge of ERP/MRP systems and manufacturing processes preferred

U.S. Citizenship required.
Taking care of our people is a top priority at Leonardo DRS. We are proud to offer competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, a company contribution to a health savings account, telemedicine, life and disability insurance, legal insurance, and a 401(k) savings plan. We champion wellness programs that focus on physical, emotional, and financial well-being. We develop our talent by offering programs and activities to support career-growth, professional development, and skill enhancement. And we understand there is more to life than work, and the importance of offering flexible work schedules with our 9/80 program, competitive vacation, health/emergency leave, paid parental leave, and community service hours.
*Some employees are eligible for limited benefits only
Leonardo DRS, Inc. and its subsidiaries provide equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.
#NPS
Our Vision. To be the leading mid-tier defense technology company in the U.S.
Our Values. The Leonardo DRS culture is defined by our Core Values and Principles:
- Integrity
- Agility
- Excellence
- Customer Focus
- Community & Respect
- Innovation
We strive to uphold them in all aspects of our business practices to inspire our employees and provide outstanding support for our customers.

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