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

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 ...

Blue Origin

Supply Chain Program Manager

Seattle, WA · On-site

$162K/yr

Supply Chain Program Managers (SCPM) will manage teams of Procurement Professionals to create ... Defense Biometric Identification System (DBIDS) background check if at any time the role requires ...

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Showing results 21-40

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 Aug 8, 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 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 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $122,293 per year, or $58.8 per hour.

Mission Success Program Manager

Overland AI

Seattle, WA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:
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 the technical delivery of ground autonomy systems in challenging environments, ensuring smooth execution and continuous improvement of operations.
Responsibilities:
• Lead the end-to-end execution of deployments for Overland AI’s ground autonomy systems, ensuring technical and operational success in challenging environments
• Serve as Overland AI’s primary on-site representative during field operations, building trust and credibility with end users
• Identify, prioritize, and resolve issues that impact mission execution, often in time-sensitive, resource-constrained situations
• Work side by side with operators and stakeholders to understand real-world needs, constraints, and mission objectives
• Capture and translate user feedback, operational challenges, and field observations into clear requirements and actionable inputs for internal teams
• Influence the product roadmap by acting as the voice of the customer internally, ensuring user needs meaningfully influence hardware, autonomy, and operational priorities
• Establish and maintain clear program structure, including goals, milestones, risks, and dependencies
• Coordinate logistics, deployment planning, and sustainment activities, ensuring equipment, personnel, and resources are ready in the right place at the right time
• Drive clear communication across customers, leadership, and internal teams before, during, and after deployments
• Support follow-on contract efforts by identifying opportunities to expand scope, improve offerings, and demonstrate mission value
• Create and maintain program documentation including charters, execution plans, deployment guides, and field support processes
• Capture lessons learned from deployments and ensure they are fed back into product, operations, and program improvements
• Help mature Overland AI’s mission success and field operations practices as the company scales
Qualifications:
Required:
• Ability to obtain a US government security clearance
Preferred:
• Bachelor's degree in an Engineering discipline preferred, or equivalent practical experience
• 4+ years of experience as a program manager, operations manager, or equivalent role
• Demonstrated experience leading programs, operations, or complex initiatives in technical or operational environments
• Experience fielding software or hardware products to real operating environments in deep-tech, defense, or high-growth start-up domains
• Effective communicator with demonstrated ability to collaborate and influence cross-functionally
• Strong understanding of software development lifecycles
• Experience working with ground autonomy systems
• Demonstrated ability to deliver successful outcomes on multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced operating environment
• Willingness to operate in ambiguous environment(s) and take action to solve challenging problems
• Prior US military experience is a plus
Company:
Overland AI develops autonomous ground vehicle technology for tactical and operational applications. Founded in 2022, the company is headquartered in Seattle, USA, with a team of 51-200 employees. The company is currently Growth Stage.

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