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

Karman Space and Defense

Program Planner

Mukilteo, WA · On-site

$32.50 - $43/hr

Karman Space & Defense is a leader in the rapid design, development, and production of critical ... You collaborate closely with program managers, engineers, manufacturing, quality, and purchasing ...

Blue Origin

Supply Chain Program Manager

Seattle, WA

$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 ...

IonQ

Senior Program Manager, Customer Delivery

Bothell, WA · On-site

$129K - $130K/yr

... defense. In 2025, the company achieved 99.99% two-qubit gate fidelity, setting a world record in ... As a technical program manager within IonQ's Quantum Computing product family, you'll be part of a ...

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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 Sep 9, 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 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 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 September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $122,293 per year, or $58.8 per hour.

Technical Program Manager, Optical Payload Software - TeraWave

Seattle, WA • On-site

Blue Origin, LLC
Space Research Administration • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Blue Origin, LLCexternal

$145K - $203K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

Blue Origin rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 92 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 72 rated aerospace companies

Job description

Application close date:
Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis until the requisition is closed.
At Blue Origin, we envision millions of people living and working in space for the benefit of Earth. We're working to develop reusable, safe, and low-cost space vehicles and systems within a culture of safety, collaboration, and inclusion. Join our team of problem solvers as we add new chapters to the history of spaceflight!
Blue Origin is pioneering the future of space-based communications with TeraWave, a revolutionary satellite communications network designed to deliver symmetrical data speeds of up to 6 Tbps anywhere on Earth. This multi-orbit constellation will consist of optically interconnected satellites in low Earth orbit (LEO) and medium Earth orbit (MEO), providing enterprise-grade connectivity for critical operations worldwide.
Technical Program Manager, Optical Payload Software - TeraWave
About the Role
Blue Origin's TeraWave program is developing cutting-edge free-space optical communication terminals to enable high-bandwidth connectivity for enterprise and government customers. We are seeking a Technical Program Manager (TPM) to lead the software development effort for optical payload and ground terminals, from initial concept through delivery. This role requires a unique combination of software program management expertise and sufficient technical depth in optical and photonic systems to drive effective cross-functional execution.
Responsibilities
Program Management
  • Own end-to-end planning, scheduling, and execution for optical payload software development, initially focused on flight software and expanding to manufacturing test software as the program matures
  • Define and maintain integrated master schedules (IMS), identifying the critical path and managing dependencies across software, hardware, and systems teams
  • Track program milestones, deliverables, risks, and issues, driving resolution with urgency
  • Manage budgets, resource allocation, and forecasting across the software development effort
  • Lead program reviews (PDR, CDR, TRR, etc.) and executive-level status reporting

Technical Leadership
  • Serve as the technical integrator across software, optical, mechanical, and electrical disciplines
  • Drive architecture trades, design decisions, and requirements decomposition for payload software
  • Identify technical risks early and lead mitigation planning
  • Translate complex engineering challenges into actionable program decisions
  • Partner with systems engineering to ensure terminal performance requirements and manufacturing test software requirements are met

Cross-Functional Coordination
  • Align stakeholders across software engineering, systems engineering, supply chain, manufacturing, test, and operations
  • Coordinate with hardware teams and systems-level teams to ensure software integration compatibility
  • Communicate program status clearly to leadership and customers

Qualifications
Required
  • Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, computer science, optical engineering, physics, or a related field
  • 8+ years of experience in software or hardware development programs
  • 3+ years in a TPM, program management, or systems engineering leadership role
  • Demonstrated experience managing complex software development programs through the full lifecycle, from concept through production
  • Working knowledge of optical systems (free-space optics, fiber optics, photonics, or similar) and their manufacturing test requirements
  • Proficiency with scheduling tools such as MS Project or Smartsheet
  • Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills

Preferred
  • Experience with laser communication terminals, lidar, or electro-optical systems
  • Background in space, aerospace, or defense software and hardware development
  • PMP certification or equivalent
  • Experience with agile or hybrid development methodologies

Base Pay Range for:
WA applicants is $145,188.00 - $203,263.20
Other site ranges may differ
Culture Statement
Don't meet all desired requirements? Studies have shown that some people are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single desired qualification. At Blue Origin, we are dedicated to building an authentic workplace, so if you're excited about this role but your past experience doesn't align perfectly with every desired qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles.
Export Control Regulations
Applicants for employment at Blue Origin must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (i.e. current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum.
Background Check
  • Required for all positions: Blue's Standard Background Check
  • Required for Certain Job Profiles: Defense Biometric Identification System (DBIDS) background check if at any time the role requires one to be on a military installation
  • Required for Certain Job Profiles: Drivers who operate Commercial Motor Vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW), Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) or combination of power unit and trailer that meets or exceeds 10,001 lbs. and/or transports placardable amounts of hazardous materials by ground in any vehicle on a public road while in commerce, may be subject to additional Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations including: Driver Qualification Files, Medical Certification (obtained before onboarding), Road Test, Hours of Service, Drug and Alcohol Testing, vehicle inspection requirements, CDL requirements (if applicable) and hazardous materials transportation/shipping training.
  • Required for certain Job Profiles: Ability to obtain and maintain Merchant Mariner Credential, which includes pre-employment and random drug testing as well as DOT physical

Benefits
  • Benefits include: Medical, dental, vision, basic and supplemental life insurance, paid parental leave, short and long-term disability, 401(k) with a company match of up to 5%, and an Education Support Program.
  • Stock Options for all regular employees (working at least 20 hours/week)
  • Paid Time Off: Up to four (4) weeks per year based on weekly scheduled hours, and up to 14 company-paid holidays.
  • Dependent on role type and job level, employees may be eligible for benefits and bonuses based on the company's intent to reward individual contributions and enable them to share in the company's results, or other factors at the company's sole discretion. Bonus amounts and eligibility are not guaranteed and subject to change and cancellation. Please check with your recruiter for more details.

Equal Employment Opportunity
Blue Origin is proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and is committed to attracting, retaining, and developing a highly qualified and dedicated work force. Blue Origin hires and promotes people on the basis of their qualifications, performance, and abilities. We support the establishment and maintenance of a workplace that fosters trust, equality, and teamwork. We provide all qualified applicants for employment and employees with equal opportunities for hire, promotion, and other terms and conditions of employment, regardless of their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin/ethnicity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by federal, state, and/or local law. Blue Origin will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with applicable federal, state, and local laws, including the Washington Fair Chance Act, the California Fair Chance Act, the Los Angeles Fair Chance in Hiring Ordinance, and other applicable laws. For more information on "Know Your Rights," please see here.
Affirmative Action and Disability Accommodation
Applicants wishing to receive information on Blue Origin's Affirmative Action Plans, or applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation in order to participate in the application and/or interview process, please contact us at EEOCompliance@blueorigin.com. Please note this is a publicly managed inbox. Please do not include any personal medical information in your request.

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About Blue Origin

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Blue Origin is a private aerospace manufacturing and suborbital spaceflight services company based in Kent, Washington, USA. Established in 2000 by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, the company operates in the cutting-edge aerospace industry aiming to build a future where millions of people can live and work in space. They develop a variety of technologies, with a focus on reusable rocket systems which significantly reduce the cost of space travel. Blue Origin's core mission is to make this vision come to life by incrementally building on its successes with an ultimate vision of dramatic cost reduction and increased reliance on reusable spacecraft.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Kent, WA, US

Year founded

2000

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