ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Program Manager Defense Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

TCOM, L.P.

Program Manager

Columbia, MD · On-site +1

$140.33K - $190K/yr

Position Overview The Program Manager is responsible for leading all phases of TCOM's Lighter-Than ... Department of Defense security clearance * Willingness and ability to travel domestically and ...

TCOM, L.P.

Program Manager

Columbia, MD · On-site

$140.33K - $190K/yr

The Program Manager serves as the primary customer interface, directs cross-functional company ... Department of Defense security clearance * Willingness and ability to travel domestically and ...

Agile Defense

Program Manager

Suitland, MD · On-site

About Agile Defense At Agile Defense we know that action defines the outcome and new challenges ... Program Manager Location: Suitland, MD Clearance Level: TS/SCI Required Certification(s): PMP ...

Agile Defense

Program Manager

Suitland, MD

About Agile Defense At Agile Defense we know that action defines the outcome and new challenges ... Program Manager Location: Suitland, MD Clearance Level: TS/SCI Required Certification(s): PMP ...

Sigma Defense

1677 - Program Manager

Washington, DC · On-site

$168K - $225K/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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

All JobsProgram Manager Defense JobsProgram Manager Defense Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

Program Manager Defense information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$39.8K

$111.1K

$162.3K

How much do program manager defense jobs pay per year?

As of May 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for program manager defense in Silver Spring, MD is $111,090.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,200.00 and $137,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 popular job titles related to Program Manager Defense jobs in Silver Spring, MD? For Program Manager Defense jobs in Silver Spring, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Program Manager Defense jobs in Silver Spring, MD look for? The top searched job categories for Program Manager Defense jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:
What cities near Silver Spring, MD are hiring for Program Manager Defense jobs? Cities near Silver Spring, MD with the most Program Manager Defense job openings:
Program Manager Defense jobs near you
Senior Program Manager-Defense Solutions

Senior Program Manager-Defense Solutions

Curtiss-Wright

Ashburn, VA • On-site

$118.60K - $119.10K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 hours ago

Curtiss-Wright rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

87th of 415 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

Senior Program Manager- Defense Solutions
Come join our family as our Senior Program Manager for a family of programs in Ashburn, VA
As our Senior Program Manager, you will work with the most innovative designers and manufacturers of rugged solutions that deliver optimal and reliable performance wherever they are deployed. You will be responsible for the performance of programs in accordance with contract requirements and company policies, procedures, and guidelines. Our program area typically represents more than three functional areas. You will also be responsible for acquiring follow-on business associated with assigned programs and for supporting new business developmentby leading proposals and increasing customer satisfaction.
Location: Ashburn, VA, Remote Northeast US
Salary Range: $ 144,100.00 - 190,000.00 per year plus bonus
Please note that the salary range information provided is a general guideline only, reflecting a position based in Virginia. Criteria such as the candidate's qualifications and relevant experience, the scope of the specific position, as well as market and business considerations will be evaluated when extending an offer.
We Take Care of Our People
Paid Time Off I 401K with Employer Match and Profit Sharing I Health and Wellness Benefits I Learning and Development Opportunities I Referral Program I Competitive Pay I Recognition I Employee Stock Purchase Plan I Inclusive & Supportive Culture
Your Challenge:
As our Senior Program Manager, you will serve as the principal point of contact to key military and commercial customers by showcasing your technical program leadership within the Rugged Embedded Computing industry. Demonstrate your seniority with the Defense and Aerospace embedded environment by managing technical, multi-million dollar budgets, scheduling and leading action-oriented teams in the execution of rugged embedded computing and security processing development programs.
  • Must be familiar with the architecture and implementation of complex integrated systems for Defense and Aerospace; the hardware development process; the integration and test requirements and methodologies to support these complex systems integration activities
  • Ownership of the schedule and cost management on programs managed - Holds program and proposal Kick-off Meetings, establishing baselines for planned cost, design configuration and schedule - Establishes and tracks metrics to monitor performance and progress.
  • Lead multi-disciplinary teams within a matrixed organization
  • Act as a central authority for the Company in its relationship with internal and external customers.
  • Establish program status reporting to anticipate and take corrective action in problem areas before they occur, with appropriate line organization.
  • Takes a proactive stance by developing contingency plans in potential risk areas and identifying contingency plan deployment criteria to resolve potential problems. Reports potential problems to upper management.
  • Ensure pertinent written records are maintained that document all agreements / commitments related to the project.
  • Actively pursue new business and will be responsible to coordinate proposal responses both formal RFPs and informal inquiries.
  • The Senior Program Manager will work with Engineering and support organizations to analyze proposals with respect to cost/risk/quality, lead source selections and negotiation teams, and monitor subcontract costs, schedules, and technical performance.

What You Bring:
  • Bachelor's or master's degree in electrical or computer engineering preferred (or equivalent).
  • Program Management Professional (PgMP) and Project Management Professional (PMP) certification highly desired.
  • A minimum of 5 years related experience
  • Extensive background in strategic planning, competitive assessments, and bidding/acquisition of multi-million dollar contracts
  • Experience in working with the Defense and Aerospace customer community and in serving as a principal point of contact to key military and commercial customers
  • Management leadership of annual multi-million dollar budget
  • Strong interpersonal skills especially in team building/maintenance and customer relationships
  • Technical and program leadership experience and familiarity with the Single Board Computer industry and integrated systems development are required
  • Should have experience with customer communications, negotiations and proposal management
  • Contribute to weekly and monthly strategic planning, plan execution and technology roadmap updates and must be able to keep team members focused on schedule milestones and objectives and must motivate team members to develop cost effective, customer-oriented solutions and approaches.
  • Must be able to act independently and make decisions on administrative / operational issues affecting the success of this organization.
  • Must be a US citizen and able to obtain and maintain a DOD Security clearance

Who We Are:
Our Values
Environmental, Social and Governance
Curtiss-Wright's Defense Solution division is a trusted, proven leader, delivering superior products and services that meet the defense and aerospace industries' toughest challenges with best-in-class value. Our solutions address air, ground, and naval defense applications, and are focused on growth segments with a high demand for advanced technology, enhanced safety, security, and performance. As a leading Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA) solutions supplier for battlefield platforms and communication systems, we are uniquely positioned to benefit from the DoD's commitment to maintaining technological superiority on the battlefield.
To learn more visit: Home | Curtiss-Wright Defense Solutions (curtisswrightds.com)
#LI-YH1 #LI-REMOTE
No unsolicited agency submittals please. Agency partners must be invited to participate in a search by our Talent Acquisition Team and have signed terms in place prior to any submittal. Resumes submitted directly to any Curtiss-Wright employee or affiliate will not qualify for fee payment, and therefore become the property of Curtiss-Wright.
Compliance Statement
This position may require exposure to export-controlled information and subject to additional security screening. In the event information provided during the security screening reveals ineligibility to access export-controlled information, any offer of employment may be reconsidered or withdrawn.
Curtiss-Wright is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, ethnicity, color, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical or mental disability, age, ancestry, legally protected medical condition, family care status, marital status, religion, veteran status, national origin, or any other legally protected status. If you require accommodation during the recruitment process, please contact Talent Acquisition.
For US Applicants: EEO is The Law - click here for more information.
If you require accommodation due to a disability at any time during the recruitment and/or assessment process, please contact Talent Acquisition and we will make all reasonable efforts to accommodate your request.

What Curtiss-Wright employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Curtiss-Wright logo

About Curtiss-Wright

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Curtiss-Wright Actuation Division designs, manufactures and supports electro-mechanical actuation products and systems for use in demanding applications in Aerospace, Defense and Industrial Automation markets. Our market leading solutions help improve the reliability, efficiency and performance of our customers' operations and platforms, as well as reducing their environmental impact with energy efficient electro-mechanical designs and technology. For the Aerospace market, we supply actuation systems for flight control, landing gear, utility and other applications on both commercial and military aircraft. In Ground & Naval Defense markets, we support a wide array of applications ranging from door assist, ramp and hatch actuation, weapons handling systems, radar and launch platform actuation, and robotic (AUV/ROV) actuation. In Industrial Automation, our Exlar® actuators are globally recognized as a leading brand offering high power density, precision and reliability for machine/process applications in automotive, food & beverage, oil & gas, robotics, entertainment and many other industries.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Davidson, NC, US

Year founded

1929

Social media

FacebookTwitter

View All Curtiss-Wright Jobs

Apply