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Program Manager Defense Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Butler Aerospace & Defense

Program Manager

Redmond, WA · On-site

$60 - $72/hr

Program Manager Location: Everett, WA Job ID: #72818 Duration: 12 months contract Pay Range: $60-72 - W2 hourly The right candidate will support an Aircraft Interiors Program team. The candidate with ...

Anduril Industries

Senior Program Manager

Bellevue, WA

$130K - $131K/yr

... defense sector. The ideal candidate will thrive in a fast-paced environment, demonstrate strong ... Proven track record of managing large-scale, complex programs across the product development ...

Overland AI

Senior Program Manager

Seattle, WA · On-site

$132K - $132K/yr

... defense through advanced research in robotics and machine learning. They are seeking a Senior ... Program Manager to enable high-quality delivery across customer-facing programs, define strategic ...

Overland AI

Senior Program Manager

Seattle, WA · On-site

$130K - $180K/yr

Overland AI has secured funding from prominent defense tech investors including 8VC and Point 72 ... program management team. You will focus on enabling high-quality, effective delivery across ...

Overland AI

Mission Success Program Manager

Seattle, WA · On-site

Overland AI is a company transforming land operations for modern defense, leveraging advanced research in robotics and machine learning. They are seeking a Mission Success Program Manager to manage ...

Overland AI

Mission Success Program Manager

Seattle, WA · On-site

... defense through advanced robotics and machine learning technologies. The Mission Success Program ... Manager will manage the technical delivery of ground autonomy systems, coordinate logistics, and ...

Overland AI

Mission Success Program Manager

Seattle, WA · On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

Overland AI has secured funding from prominent defense tech investors including 8VC and Point 72 ... a program manager, operations manager, or equivalent role * Demonstrated experience leading ...

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All JobsProgram Defense JobsProgram Manager Defense JobsProgram Manager Defense Jobs in Seattle, WA

Program Manager Defense information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$43.8K

$122.3K

$178.7K

How much do program manager defense jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for program manager defense in Seattle, WA is $122,293.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,500.00 and $150,800.00 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 Seattle, WA? For Program Manager Defense jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Program Manager Defense jobs in Seattle, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Program Manager Defense jobs in Seattle, WA are:
What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Program Manager Defense jobs? Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Program Manager Defense job openings:
Program Manager Defense jobs near you
Infographic showing various Program Manager Defense job openings in Seattle, WA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $122,293 per year, or $58.8 per hour.
Program Manager

Program Manager

Butler Aerospace & Defense

Redmond, WA • On-site

$60 - $72/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Program Manager

Location: Everett, WA

Job ID: #72818

Duration: 12 months contract

Pay Range: $60-72 - W2 hourly


Job Description:


The right candidate will support an Aircraft Interiors Program team. The candidate with collaborate with the other PMs to drive change, manage and lead all phases of this program, including initial development phase, qualification testing, and delivery of certified product to support entry-into-service (EIS) for new airline customers. You will be a part of the program interface with both internal and external stakeholders. This position is a full-time onsite role at 11404 Commando Rd, Everett, WA 98204.


What You Will Do:

• Develop program-enhancing partnerships with internal functional organizations, typically organized into an integrated product team (IPT).

• Assist with the daily program cadence (battle rhythm) such as schedule performance management, customer reviews, IPT reviews, program management reviews (PMRs), and decision reviews to achieve contract commitments.

• Prepare, revise, update, and monitor required documentation and analysis in compliance with contract requirements, and Business procedures.

• Close coordination and collaboration with production to ensure priorities are met and escalated where required.

• Meeting contractual commitments including financial, technical, and schedule performance of assigned program.

• Own and provide guidance to program leads on the implementation of risk and opportunity management.

• Lead or participate in key program cadence activities including monthly financial reporting.

• Coordinate customer program reviews; prepare for customer visits.

• Lead decision making for the IPT and apply critical thinking where incomplete data exists.

• Coordinate with production, operations, supply chain in managing production deliveries to meet customer schedule requirements.

• Support and organize program reviews, team meetings, and other business activities.

• Ensure customer satisfaction through strong communication and concise presentation material.

• Understand and represent customer needs to stakeholders.

• Develop and maintain excellent relationships with customers.


Qualifications We Prefer:

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field with a minimum of 8 years of relevant experience (such as Program or Project Management, Engineering, Finance, Supply Chain, etc.)

• Prior Program/Project Management experience

• Prior People Leadership/Management experience

• Experience with Financial Analysis tools and/or systems

• Experience leading/managing development programs and transitioning them to production

• Experience supporting cross-functional teams

• Earned Value Management (EVM) and Risk & Opportunity Management experience

• Experience with Microsoft Office Suite resources including MS Project

• U.S. citizenship or eligibility to work in the U.S.

• Experience at OEM suppliers leading OEM development programs preferred



Benefits provided: 401K, medical, dental, and vision, sick time as applicable to state law.

Butler America Aerospace, LLC. is an equal opportunity employer. Butler evaluates applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, genetic information and other legally protected characteristics. The Butler America Aerospace, LLC. EEO Policy Statement and “Know Your Rights” Poster is available here: Applicant and Employee Notices.


Butler America Aerospace, LLC. is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation because of a disability for any part of the employment process, please contact the Human Resources Department at accommodations@butler.com.

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