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Program Manager Defense Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Agile Defense

Deputy Program Manager

Reston, VA · On-site

$121K/yr

About Agile Defense At Agile Defense we know that action defines the outcome and new challenges ... Deputy Program Manager Location: Reston, VA Clearance Level: TS (SCI Eligible) Required ...

Agile Defense

Deputy Program Manager

Reston, VA

$121K/yr

About Agile Defense At Agile Defense we know that action defines the outcome and new challenges ... Deputy Program Manager Location: Reston, VA Clearance Level: TS (SCI Eligible) Required ...

AERONIX INC

Program Manager

Arlington, VA · On-site

$150K - $175K/yr

Aeronix Technologies Group (ATG) is seeking an experienced Aerospace and Defense Senior Program Manager to join our team. This position will be based in the Washington, DC area, split between our ...

AERONIX INC

Program Manager

Arlington, VA · On-site

$150K - $175K/yr

Aeronix Technologies Group (ATG) is seeking an experienced Aerospace and Defense Senior Program Manager to join our team. This position will be based in the Washington, DC area, split between our ...

Sigma Defense

1678 - Deputy Program Manager

Washington, DC · On-site

$151K - $200K/yr

Sigma Defense is seeking a Program Manager to lead the execution of large, complex support-services program within the Surface Radars, Electronic Warfare, EO/IR, Decoys, and Laser Systems portfolio ...

Sigma Defense

1678 - Deputy Program Manager

Washington, DC · On-site

$151K - $200K/yr

Sigma Defense is seeking a Program Manager to lead the execution of large, complex support-services program within the Surface Radars, Electronic Warfare, EO/IR, Decoys, and Laser Systems portfolio ...

VTG

Program Manager

Washington, DC · On-site

$120K - $175K/yr

Overview VTG is seeking a Program Manager to lead the Warfare Systems Business Area which is part of the Engineering Systems Business Unit in the company's Defense Division. In this role, the ...

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Program Manager Defense information

See Reston, VA salary details

$40.1K

$111.8K

$163.3K

How much do program manager defense jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for program manager defense in Reston, VA is $111,797.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,700.00 and $137,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Program Manager in 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 in Defense, and why are they important?

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 in the defense sector 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 Reston, VA? For Program Manager Defense jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Program Manager Defense jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Program Manager Defense jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Program Manager Defense jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Program Manager Defense job openings:
Program Manager Defense jobs near you
Infographic showing various Program Manager Defense job openings in Reston, VA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 34% Full Time, 64% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,797 per year, or $53.7 per hour.
Manager, Defense Business Operations

Manager, Defense Business Operations

AST SpaceMobile

Lanham, MD

Other

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Position Overview

We are seeking a Manager of Finance & Business Operations to serve as the operational backbone of our Defense group. This role is ideal for a proactive leader who can seamlessly balance high-level strategic initiatives with core business and team support.

This individual will lead the implementation and ongoing management of Deltek Costpoint, oversee program financial tracking and forecasting, and partner closely with Accounting, BD, Corporate Development, PMO, and Engineering to provide leadership with clear, real-time insights into program performance.

The ideal candidate brings hands-on experience in DoD program finance, has successfully implemented or significantly expanded a Costpoint environment, and thrives in owning forecasts, developing rates, and maintaining audit-ready financial data with minimal oversight. 

Key Responsibilities:

  • Stand up, configure, and administer Deltek Costpoint for the Defense group including Project Setup, Labor, Billing, and Reporting
  • Partner with Accounting and Finance to ensure data integrity across our ERP and CRM tools; lead reconciliations between systems
  • Drive cross-functional process design across BD, PMO, Engineering, and Operations to ensure financial data flows cleanly from proposal through execution.
  • Lead the development and refinement of strategic reporting and planning processes to ensure the organization meets aggressive growth targets.
  • Provide administrative and staff support to the leadership team, including coordinating schedules and managing group-level taskers.
  • Design and document standardized business processes to support efficient engineering, operations, and program execution. 

Qualifications 

Education:

Bachelor's degree in Business, Finance, Accounting, Management, Engineering, or a related field 

Experience:

  • 5+ years of experience in DoD program finance, FP&A, or defense business operations within a high-growth technology, space, or defense company.
  • Hands-on Deltek Costpoint experience, including implementation, configuration, or significant module stand-up (not solely end-user experience).
  • Direct experience or strong familiarity with DoD accounting, finance, or procurement processes (e.g., FAR/DFARS, DCAA, or DCMA).
  • Proven track record of "owning" projects from inception to delivery with minimal supervision.
  • Advanced Excel; proficiency with PowerPoint and Word
  • Exceptional organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple competing priorities for a leadership team.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • MBA in Strategic Management, Finance, Accounting  or a related field.
  • Experience working within a FOCI-mitigated or ITAR-controlled environment
  • Experience in the Space Industry or working with complex hardware/software products. 
  • Experience with NetSuite, Salesforce, JIRA, or MS Project

Soft Skills:

  • Strong interpersonal skills.
  • Proven ability to collaborate effectively within cross-functional teams.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Meticulous attention to detail to ensure the accuracy of all documentation and project deliverables.
  • Eagerness to help others and solve problems proactively.
  • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, startup-like environment. 

Technology Stack:

  • AI Tools and agentic frameworks
  • Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word)
  • Project Management Tools (JIRA, MS Project, or MS Visio)
  • ERP Systems (NetSuite, Deltek CostPoint)
  • Sales Pipeline (SalesForce, HubSpot) 

Physical Requirements 

Ability to work in a standard office environment and use a computer for extended periods.

This job description may not be inclusive to the duties and responsibilities listed. Additional tasks may be assigned to the employee from time to time or the scope of the job may change as needed by business demands. 

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