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Program Manager Defense Jobs in Pittsburgh, PA (NOW HIRING)

Quality Control Manager

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$103K - $131K/yr

She has over 24 years of experience working as a Defense Contractor and Consultant and has held positions as Director of Pricing, Contracts Manager, Program Manager, and EVM Manager. After decades of ...

Showing results 21-40

Program Manager Defense information

See Pittsburgh, PA salary details

$37.4K

$104.3K

$152.4K

How much do program manager defense jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for program manager defense in Pittsburgh, PA is $104,324.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,200.00 and $128,600.00 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 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 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 are popular job titles related to Program Manager Defense jobs in Pittsburgh, PA? For Program Manager Defense jobs in Pittsburgh, PA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Program Manager Defense jobs in Pittsburgh, PA look for? The top searched job categories for Program Manager Defense jobs in Pittsburgh, PA are:
What cities near Pittsburgh, PA are hiring for Program Manager Defense jobs? Cities near Pittsburgh, PA with the most Program Manager Defense job openings:
Infographic showing various Program Manager Defense job openings in Pittsburgh, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,324 per year, or $50.2 per hour.

Training Program Manager - Metal Cutting Tooling

Kennametal, Inc.

Pittsburgh, PA • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago


Kennametal rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 38 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

319th of 487 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

    About Kennametal

With over 85 years as an industrial technology leader, Kennametal Inc. delivers productivity to customers through materials science, tooling and wear-resistant solutions. Customers across aerospace and defense, earthworks, energy, general engineering and transportation turn to Kennametal to help them manufacture with precision and efficiency. Learn more at kennametal.com. Follow @Kennametal: Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and YouTube.

Job Title: Training Program Manager - Metal Cutting Tooling

Location: Role can be remote as long as located East of the Mississippi. Ideal location would be near Latrobe, PA. Role will require travel up to 75%

Job Summary:

As the Training Program Manager at Kennametal, you will play a pivotal role in leading the design, execution, and evaluation of training programs aimed at enhancing the skills and knowledge of our internal teams, end users, and channel partners. This role requires strategic collaboration with stakeholders, expertise in industry trends, and proficiency in modern learning practices.

Key Responsibilities:

Stakeholder Collaboration:

  • Orchestrate with internal stakeholders (Regional Product Marketing Manager and Global Product Manager Marketing) to develop and implement training program schedules.

Training Program Design and Delivery:

  • Lead the design and delivery of industry and skills training programs/courses for all levels to drive lead generation through sales solutions.
  • Develop training programs focusing on features and benefits versus value-based training.

Industry Trends and Learning Platforms:

  • Liaise with industry experts to understand and utilize learning trends and platforms for continuous improvement.

Monitoring and Evaluation:

  • Establish processes to monitor results and collect feedback on trainings for effectiveness and improvement.
  • Define and measure success metrics through training feedback and results.

Product-related Trainings:

  • Coordinate product-related trainings, including new product feature presentations and simulation activities in a demo environment.

Marketing Collaboration:

  • Collaborate and synchronize with marketing efforts to generate demand and drive growth through coordinated training and promotional activities.

Global Alignment:

  • Collaborate with global and regional teams to align on standards and best practices

Needs Assessment:

  • Identify training objectives by analyzing overall needs and specific skill or knowledge gaps.
  • Maintain a thorough understanding of industry needs across internal teams, end users, and channel partners.

Qualifications:

Technical degree or Degree in Business, Manufacturing and/or Engineering preferred

Subject Matter Expertise:

  • 5 years of experience in training and development or related field preferred
  • Experience in machining/metal cutting required
  • SME in industry segments such as Aerospace, General Engineering, Transportation, Medical, and Energy preferred

Learning Practices and Technologies:

  • Strong knowledge of development and learning practices.
  • Familiarity with web-based learning platforms and modern educational techniques.

Problem Solving and Solution Delivery:

  • Demonstrated ability to deliver recommendations and solutions.
  • Results-driven with strong problem-solving skills.

Communication and Leadership:

  • Excellent communication and presentation skills.
  • Influential leadership with an executive presence.
  • Proficiency in public speaking and project management.
  • Strong organizational skills with a collaborative approach to work.

 Kennametal Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.


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