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

Aventra Defense Systems Inc

Program Manager

Herndon, VA

$145K - $205K/yr

About Aventra Aventra Defense Systems is a defense technology company developing and delivering ... Key Responsibilities Program Management & Operations - Support executive team in strategic planning ...

Agile Defense

Program Manager

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$150 - $200/hr

About Agile Defense At Agile Defense we know that action defines the outcome and new challenges ... Program Manager Location: Ashburn, VA Clearance Level: Secret, Must Have Clearance to Start ...

Agile Defense

Deputy Program Manager

Ashburn, VA

$145K - $185K/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

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$145K - $185K/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

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$119K/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

Program Manager (CBP)

Reston, VA · Hybrid

$170K - $225K/yr

SUMMARY Agile Defense is seeking highly technical Program Manager to lead an enterprise ... cybersecurity program delivering and developing 24/7 Cyber Security Operations Center (CSOC ...

Agile Defense

Program Manager (CBP)

Reston, VA · Hybrid

SUMMARY Agile Defense is seeking highly technical Program Manager to lead an enterprise ... cybersecurity program delivering and developing 24/7 Cyber Security Operations Center (CSOC ...

Agile Defense

Program Manager (CBP)

Reston, VA · On-site

$170K - $225K/yr

SUMMARY Agile Defense is seeking highly technical Program Manager to lead an enterprise ... cybersecurity program delivering and developing 24/7 Cyber Security Operations Center (CSOC ...

Pae

Program Manager

Washington, DC · On-site

Amentum is seeking an accomplished Program Manager to lead a large, mission-critical intelligence support program for the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA). This executive leader will serve as the ...

Amentum

Program Manager

Washington, DC · On-site

Amentum is seeking an accomplished Program Manager to lead a large, mission-critical intelligence support program for the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA). This executive leader will serve as the ...

Socket.dev

Program Manager

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$150 - $200/hr

About Agile Defense At Agile Defense we know that action defines the outcome and new challenges ... Requisition # 1769 Job Title Program Manager Location Ashburn, VA Clearance Level Secret, Must Have ...

BryceTech

Program Manager

Arlington, VA · On-site

... defense. We specialize in systems engineering, advanced analytics, R&D programs, and strategic ... The Program Manager serves as the senior leader responsible for the overall management, direction ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsProgram Defense JobsProgram Manager Defense JobsProgram Manager Defense Jobs in Reston, VA

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 Sep 8, 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 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 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,797 per year, or $53.7 per hour.

Program Manager

Aventra Defense Systems Inc

Herndon, VA

$145K - $205K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Support the development, production, and delivery of high altitude systems, payloads, unmanned systems, and services to the US Department of Defense and allied partners.

  • Coordinate cross-functional activities, manage project timelines, and facilitate communication between internal teams and government stakeholders.

  • Assist engineering teams with design reviews, testing, troubleshooting, and technical documentation related to defense systems.

Job description

About AventraAventra Defense Systems is a defense technology company developing and delivering autonomous aerial systems for the U.S. government and allied partners. We operate at the intersection of advanced hardware, software, and national security — designing, building, and fielding systems that perform in the world’s most demanding environments.
 
We are a mission-driven team moving at startup speed with defense-grade accountability. Our programs span contracted deliveries, government demonstrations, and ongoing system development — and our pace reflects the urgency of the problems we’re solving.
Position Overview & Key ResponsibilitiesPosition Overview

We are seeking a dynamic Program Manager to serve as a key operational partner to our executive team in the development, production, and delivery of the Aventra’s high altitude systems, payloads, unmanned systems and services to the US Department of Defense and allied partners. This multifaceted role requires a versatile professional who can seamlessly transition between engineering support, software development, government customer engagement, and hands-on troubleshooting. The ideal candidate thrives in a defense contracting environment where mission success is paramount and enjoys the challenge of wearing multiple hats to support critical defense capabilities.

Key Responsibilities

Program Management & Operations

- Support executive team in strategic planning and execution across all aspects of Program management of multiple product lines and customers

- Coordinate cross-functional activities between engineering, manufacturing, contracts, and program delivery teams

- Manage project timelines, resource allocation, and milestone tracking in accordance with DoD acquisition processes

- Facilitate communication between internal teams and government stakeholders

- Support contract compliance and reporting requirements

Technical & Engineering Support

- Collaborate with engineering teams on design reviews, testing protocols, and performance optimization

- Assist in troubleshooting technical issues during development, testing, and field operations

- Support flight testing activities and data analysis for both internal and government demonstration events

- Contribute to technical documentation, specifications, and government deliverables

Government Customer Engagement

- Interface with US DoD customers, program officers, and end users during technical discussions and demonstrations

- Provide technical support to military units during delivery and operational testing

- Gather operational feedback and translate customer requirements into actionable development items

- Support government demonstrations, military exercises, and capability assessments

Field Operations & Mission Support

- Occasional travel domestically and internationally for customer support, demonstrations, and field testing

- Conduct on-site troubleshooting and technical support at designated test locations

- Assist with government acceptance testing and delivery activities

Qualifications

Core Qualifications

- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Business Management or related technical field

- 6-8+ years of experience in defense contracting, program management, or government customer support

- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with attention to detail required for government work

- Excellent written and verbal communication skills for government reporting and briefings

- Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a regulated environment

- Valid driver's license and ability to travel domestically and internationally

- Ability to obtain and maintain a US government security clearance

Defense Industry Experience

- Understanding of DoD acquisition processes and contract requirements

- Experience with government technical documentation and reporting standards

- Knowledge of defense contracting regulations (FAR/DFARS)

- Experience with multiple different GOV Acquisitions and program management / Contracting  frameworks (DODI 5000.2, 5000.87, IDIQs, OTA, Etc)

- Experience interfacing with military personnel and government program managers

- Understanding of government testing and evaluation processes

- International defense cooperation experience (preferred)

Technical Skills

- Experience with project management tools and methodologies (preferably in defense context)

- Familiarity with unmanned systems, Robotics, High altitude systems, or Aviation related fields

- High proficiency in Google productivity suite

- Basic understanding of engineering principles and military technical documentation

- Experience with data analysis and government reporting requirements

Compensation Package

- Competitive salary commensurate with experience

- Generous health coverage for employee and family, premium fully covered

- 4% 401k match

- PTO and Sick Leave

Travel & Work Environment Travel Requirements 

- Travel up to 25% to customer sites, and field test locations

- Ability to work in austere field conditions and military operational environments

- Flexibility to support urgent operational requirements and schedule changes

Work Environment

- In-person role based in Herndon, VA 

- Collaborative environment supporting critical national security missions

- Direct support to warfighter capabilities and mission success

Aventra Defense Systems, Inc is a venture-backed startup building scalable, precision-guided capabilities for the next generation of combat. We are assembling a team of engineers and operators who believe in speed, simplicity, and delivering real capability to the field—not just PowerPoint slides.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.