Program Manager Defense Jobs in Pinehurst, NC (NOW HIRING)

ABOUT KRAKEN KINETICS

Kraken Kinetics designs and manufactures advanced kinetic solutions that enable modern warfighting capabilities for the United States Armed Forces and its allies. We specialize in mission-tailored warheads and firing systems for unmanned and autonomous weapon platforms, delivering production‑ready solutions at speed to address urgent national security challenges.

Our team brings decades of specialized Department of War experience across the full lifecycle of kinetic system development—from concept and design through testing, manufacturing, and operational deployment. Built on a foundation of work that helped lead the DoW into the era of kinetic drones, Kraken Kinetics combines commercial agility with deep technical expertise to deliver DEFINITIVE LETHALITY™ when it matters most.

Title: Account Manager – Government Relations

Location: On‑site at our Pinehurst, NC area facility

Kraken Kinetics is looking for a driven, high‑ownership Account Manager to help us expand our footprint across the Department of War and broader U.S. Government. This is not a passive relationship management role—this is a front‑line position for someone who wants to build, move fast, and directly impact mission success in the UxS space.

Reporting to the Head of Strategic Partnerships, you will work directly with government stakeholders—including program offices, operators, and contracting entities—while coordinating internally with product, engineering, and leadership teams. Success in this role requires initiative, strong communication, and the ability to move work forward in a dynamic environment.

• Serve as primary point of contact for assigned government accounts
• Orchestrate complex, multi‑stakeholder initiatives across government, industry, and internal teams, ensuring alignment, execution discipline, and delivery against mission‑critical objectives
• Coordinate responses to RFIs, RFPs, BAAs, and other government solicitations
• Support Compliance Team with requirements related to government contract deliverables
• Support logistics for demos, tests, and deployments
• Track program status, risks, and user feedback to ensure successful execution
• Represent Kraken at industry days, conferences, and customer engagements
• Maintain accurate records of engagements, opportunities, and account activity
• Ensure compliance with government contracting, reporting requirements, and applicable export control regulations (e.g., ITAR)

Required

• Advanced degree in relevant field (MA/MS/MBA) or equivalent practical experience
• Experience working with USG, DoD, or defense‑related programs
• Strong communication and relationship‑management skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and drive tasks to completion
• Experience supporting or contributing to government proposals or solicitations
• Demonstrated ability to work cross‑functionally with technical and non‑technical teams
• Ability to solve complex problems with creative solutions
• Proven success in dynamic or shifting operational environments
• Ability to travel as needed for customer engagement and events

Preferred Experience

• Experience in UxS, autonomy, robotics, or defense technology sectors
• Expertise in the DoD acquisition processes (FAR/DFARS, APFIT, OTA, etc.)
• Working knowledge of export control regulations, including ITAR/EAR
• Deep understanding of defense policy, resource allocation (PPBE), and acquisition strategy, with ability to navigate and shape outcomes within complex bureaucratic environments
• Experience supporting deployments, demonstrations, or operational testing
• Demonstrated ability to translate complex operational or technical concepts (High‑voltage vs. low‑voltage fuzing, terminal engagement concepts, mission planning) into structured frameworks that inform programmatic or strategic decision‑making
• Experience working in a startup or high‑growth environment

Kraken Kinetics is committed to offering a competitive compensation package to attract and retain top talent. This full‑time, on‑site exempt position offers an annual salary range of $120,000‑$150,000 depending on qualifications and experience.

US Citizen

Security Statement: This position requires special access to U.S. government information. You must be a U.S. citizen for consideration.

Benefits included

• Generous PTO policy
• Comprehensive medical coverage (80% company‑paid for employee + dependents).
• Vision & dental (100% company‑paid)
• Short and long‑term disability coverage (100% company‑paid)
• Generous 401(k) retirement plan
• Company‑paid life insurance
• Great teammates and well stocked snacks

Kraken Kinetics is based in Moore County, North Carolina, home to Pinehurst, a nationally recognized destination offering an exceptional quality of life.

Employees benefit from a low cost of living, minimal congestion, and a strong sense of community, with easy access to larger metropolitan areas, including Raleigh‑Durham.

Whether you're looking to accelerate your career or put down long‑term roots, the Pinehurst area offers a compelling alternative to traditional tech and defense hubs.

We are committed to supporting relocation for the right candidates.

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Kraken Kinetics is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and welcome applicants of all backgrounds.