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

SCA Analytic Linguist

Raleigh, NC ยท On-site

$32.25 - $34.50/hr

... defense and government services industry. We deliver tailored solutions, tested leadership, and ... Maintain regular communication with the program manager and keeping them informed of available ...

CRA Program Analyst III

Raleigh, NC ยท On-site

$107K - $126K/yr

Overview This position is responsible for supporting the First Line of Defense (FLOD) Community ... Volunteer Management, Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) program compliance and examination ...

Showing results 21-40

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 Sep 2, 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 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 Raleigh, NC?

For Program Manager Defense jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,460 per year, or $50.2 per hour.

Manager, Commercial Applications

Vulcan Elements

Durham, NC โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

Vulcan Elements is manufacturing American rare-earth permanent magnets for a secure, resilient future. With a focus on national security and economic resiliency, we serve critical industries such as defense, aerospace, and automotive powering a high-technology future. Vulcan Elements is building a team of ambitious professionals committed to Mission Focus, Technical Excellence and Transparency. 
 
The Manager, Commercial Applications will lead Vulcan Element's customer engagement and qualification pipeline—from first contact through long-term partnership. This role is responsible for managing customer relationships, coordinating technical and commercial requirements across internal teams, and ensuring a seamless customer experience from quote to contract. 

You will serve as the voice of the customer across the organization - translating market and customer needs into actionable input for operations, product development, and leadership. This is a highly cross-functional role requiring both commercial and technical fluency.  
 
Responsibilities 

  • Customer Pipeline Management: Own the full commercial pipeline including quotes, sampling, qualification, and transition to production. 
  • Customer Engagement: Serve as the primary point-of-contact for customers—building relationships, coordinating site visits, and ensuring timely communication throughout all stages of engagement. 
  • Voice of the Customer: Translate customer requirements and feedback into clear technical and operational inputs for internal teams. 
  • Qualification Coordination: Work closely with operations, R&D, and quality teams to ensure all customer testing and qualification milestones are met. 
  • Quoting and Commercial Support: Lead the quotation process, ensuring pricing and terms align with company strategy and cost structure. 
  • Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with operations to align production schedules, sample delivery, and customer timelines. 
  • CRM and Reporting: Maintain accurate records of customer status, technical progress, and commercial forecasts in CRM and internal reporting systems. 
  • Market Awareness: Support the Commercial team in gathering competitive intelligence and identifying emerging customer or market opportunities. 

Responsibilities and tasks outlined are not exhaustive and may change as determined by the needs of the business 

Qualifications 

  • Bachelor's degree in engineering, materials science, business, or a related field. 
  • 7+ years of experience in engineering, technical sales, business development, or customer program management - preferably in advanced manufacturing, materials, or automotive/aerospace sectors. 
  • Proven ability to manage complex programs with technical deliverables (e.g., samples, testing, or qualification). 
  • Strong communication and relationship management skills across technical and executive audiences. 
  • Demonstrated experience working cross-functionally with operations, R&D, and quality teams. 

 
Must be a U.S. Person due to required access to U.S. export-controlled information or facilities. 

 
Desired Skills 

  • Experience in rare-earth materials, magnetics, or related advanced materials markets. 
  • MBA preferred. 
  • Familiarity with defense or aerospace procurement processes. 
  • Technical aptitude in magnet design, materials processing, mechanical engineering, or component manufacturing. 
  • Experience building and maintaining CRM pipelines and customer reporting systems. 

Why Join Vulcan Elements 

You'll play a key role in rebuilding America's rare-earth magnet supply chain - supporting national security, economic resilience, and industrial leadership. As part of a fast-growing team, you'll have the opportunity to directly influence both customer success and company growth.