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

Join us and help shape the future of aerospace and defense. The Other Transaction Authority (OTA) Program Management Office (PMO) within the Contract Vehicle Center (CVC) is in search of a Program ...

Senior lead Digital Product Manager

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$123K - $162K/yr

Champion innovation and emerging technologies, including AI-enabled cyber defense capabilities ... VisitBenefits - Wells Fargo Jobs for an overview of the following benefit plans and programs ...

Coordinate and track program tasks; providing managers with analytical information for making decisions on the aspects of organizational operations relative to the effectiveness and efficiency of ...

Strategic Sourcing Manager

Durham, NC · On-site

$124K - $161K/yr

... defense, aerospace, automotive, and advanced manufacturing--powering a high-technology future. As ... Partner with Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations, Quality, and Program Management to support new ...

Coordinate and track program tasks; providing managers with analytical information for making decisions on the aspects of organizational operations relative to the effectiveness and efficiency of ...

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Program Manager Defense information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$37.4K

$104.5K

$152.6K

How much do program manager defense jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for program manager defense in Raleigh, NC is $104,460.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,300.00 and $128,800.00 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 job categories do people searching Program Manager Defense jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Program Manager Defense jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Program Manager Defense jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Program Manager Defense job openings:
Infographic showing various Program Manager Defense job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,460 per year, or $50.2 per hour.

Production Program Manager, Manufacturing

Anduril Industries

Morrisville, NC • On-site

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Anduril rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Anduril

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7.4

Company rating compared to similar companies: 7.4 out of 10

Manufacturers average

Based on 75,192 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

ABOUT THE JOB

We are seeking a Production Program Manager to lead one of our large product lines in a transition from Morrisville to Ashville, Ohio. This role is to serve as the central source of truth for program execution. In this role, you will plan, analyze, and report on program status, master technical concepts, mitigate risks, and align cross-functional teams to drive mission success. You are someone who builds lightweight, effective processes while maintaining a strong bias for action.

WHAT YOU'LL DOPlanning & Execution
  • Own Program Delivery: Drive end-to-end program execution to meet cost, schedule, and performance targets while exceeding customer expectations.
  • Process Optimization: Develop and implement lightweight processes, tools, and metrics for scope, schedule, and risk management.
  • Stakeholder Management: Maintain strong relationships with customers, suppliers, and internal partners to ensure alignment on goals and deliverables.
  • Reporting & Communication: Prepare and present contractual deliverables, program status reports, and proposals to internal and external leadership.
Team Leadership & Collaboration
  • Cross-Functional Alignment: Enable collaboration across engineering, supply chain, manufacturing, operations, and business development to unblock and accelerate projects.
  • Culture Building: Foster a high-trust, outcome-oriented "Team of Teams" culture focused on execution velocity and continuous improvement.
  • Resource Planning: Proactively assess team capabilities, identifying training needs or hiring opportunities to strengthen the team.
Strategic Growth
  • Strategic Planning: Translate business goals into actionable project plans, managing resource and budget allocation.
  • Business Alignment: Partner with senior management to align your program with the broader business roadmap.
  • Shape Growth: Support the drafting of technical proposals to scope, resource, and secure new business opportunities.
Who We Are
  • High Ownership, Low Ego: Focused on outcomes, highly collaborative, and adaptable.
  • Analytical & Detail-Oriented: Data-driven and capable of managing both high-level strategy and micro-level tactical execution.
  • Exceptional Communicator: Able to build consensus and translate complex concepts for both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
  • Agile Learner: Discerning, fast to master new technical concepts, and comfortable in fast-paced, fluid environments.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Bachelor's degree in a relevant field.
  • 6+ years of experience in program management, management consulting, or operations (aerospace, defense, or manufacturing industry preferred).
  • Strong proficiency in Excel, MS Project, or similar scheduling and analytical tools.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance.
  • Ability to travel 50% to 75% of the time to Columbus, Ohio.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Graduate degree in a technical discipline.
  • Lean and/or Program Management certification (PMP or equivalent).
  • Proven experience managing complex projects under high-pressure timelines with shifting priorities.
  • Experience leveraging software and technology to automate and streamline program workflows

Working at Anduril

About Anduril, in their own words

From Anduril

As the world enters an era of strategic competition, Anduril delivers cutting-edge autonomy, AI, computer vision, sensor fusion, and networking technology to the warfighter in months, not years.


What Anduril employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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Get the full story on Breakroom


Anduril Industries logo

About Anduril Industries

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Anduril Industries is a trailblazer in the technology industry based in Costa Mesa, CA, US. Founded in 2017 by Palmer Luckey, the creator of Oculus VR, the company focuses on developing innovative technology to equip and empower those in the defense sector. Its primary products include cutting-edge autonomous systems and AI software that assist in combating threats to national and global security. The mission of Anduril Industries is to integrate technology and defense by building transformative, scalable solutions that ensure a safer world.

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Costa Mesa, CA, US

Year founded

2017

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