ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Program Manager Defense Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

Agile Defense

Deputy Program Manager

Reston, VA · On-site

$121K/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

Reston, VA · On-site

$121K/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 ...

Sigma Defense

1678 - Deputy Program Manager

Washington, DC · On-site

$151K - $200K/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 ...

Sigma Defense

1678 - Deputy Program Manager

Washington, DC · On-site

$151K - $200K/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 ...

Sigma Defense

1678 - Deputy Program Manager

Washington, DC · On-site

$151K - $200K/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 ...

Analygence

Program Manager

Linthicum Heights, MD · On-site

Tharros is seeking a Program Manager to lead operations across three DoD Cyber Crime Center (DC3) directorates: the Vulnerability Disclosure Program (VDP), the Defense Industrial Base Collaborative ...

VTG

Program Manager

Washington, DC

$120K - $175K/yr

Overview VTG is seeking a Program Manager to lead the Warfare Systems Business Area which is part of the Engineering Systems Business Unit in the company's Defense Division. In this role, the ...

KBR, Inc.

Program Manager

Chantilly, VA · On-site

Program Manager Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR! KBR's National Security Solutions team provides ... Your contributions will be pivotal in designing and optimizing defense systems that ensure national ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

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 Jun 19, 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 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 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

Associate Program Manager

Rivet Industries

Washington, DC • On-site

$105K - $130K/yr

Full-time

PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

About Rivet
Rivet is an American company building integrated task systems - fusing hardened hardware with software, sensors, AI, and networking - for industrial workforces and defense personnel. We create capabilities that multiply the effectiveness of every individual and withstand the world's toughest environments.
We serve the people who build, operate, maintain, and defend our way of life. From technicians and engineers to first responders and service members, they embody the hard work, ingenuity, and meritocratic values that drive Western prosperity. Yet too often they are forced to rely on outdated tools that fail under modern pressures. Rivet exists to reset that priority.
At Rivet, you'll join a mission-driven team that fuses disciplines to deliver decisive outcomes where they matter most. Whether shaping our technology, strengthening our partnerships, or building our culture, every role here contributes to equipping the front lines with the modern systems they deserve.
Work Authorization Requirement: Due to the nature of our business and applicable contractual requirements, this position is restricted to U.S. citizens. Candidates must provide documentation verifying U.S. citizenship upon hire.
Role: Associate Program Manager
Location: Washington, DC
Compensation*: $105,000-$130,000 + benefits
Role Summary
This is a role for someone early in their career who wants to grow fast, work on things that matter, and build a foundation that most people spend a decade trying to find. You'll sit at the center of how Rivet operates - working alongside engineers, business development leads, finance, and executive leadership across every stage of how we build and deliver our products.
This role is designed to flex with you. Whether you grow toward program leadership, strategy, consulting, or business development, the skills you build here - cross-functional coordination, client-facing delivery, strategic planning, and performance management - are the core of every high-impact career path in defense tech and beyond.
Responsibilities
  • Program Coordination & Execution - Support end-to-end program lifecycles, from planning through delivery, by helping coordinate cross-functional teams across engineering, finance, and solution delivery. You'll learn how programs are structured, tracked, and closed, and take on increasing ownership as you grow.
  • Cross-Functional Collaboration - Be the connective tissue between hardware teams, software teams, and business leadership. You'll facilitate communication, surface blockers, and help teams stay aligned - one of the most valuable and transferable skills you can develop early in your career.
  • Strategic & Business Alignment - Help translate company goals into actionable plans by supporting the connection between technical execution and business objectives. You'll get early exposure to how a defense tech company thinks about strategy, customers, and growth.
  • Performance Tracking & Reporting - Support the definition and monitoring of program KPIs and OKRs. Learn how to build data-driven reports and deliver insights that help leadership make better decisions - a skill set that carries into every senior role.
  • Risk & Issue Management - Help identify risks across supply chain, hardware, software, and integration - and support the development of mitigation plans. You'll develop the habit of proactive problem-solving that separates great PMs from average ones.
  • Budget & Resource Awareness - Gain hands-on exposure to how programs are resourced and budgeted. You'll support financial tracking and learn how to balance competing priorities across teams - foundational knowledge for any leadership path.
  • Change & Stakeholder Management - Support teams through shifts in project scope, technology, or priorities. You'll build communication and influence skills that are central to consulting, program management, and business leadership alike.

What We're Looking For
  • 1-3 years of experience in program coordination, project management, consulting, operations, or a related role - internships and co-ops count
  • A natural organizer who can bring structure to ambiguous situations without waiting to be told what to do
  • Strong communicator who can work across technical and non-technical audiences
  • Curious, resourceful, and comfortable learning on the fly
  • Some exposure to PM tools, project tracking, or agile workflows is a plus - not a requirement
  • US Citizen with the ability to obtain a US Security Clearance

Why This Role Builds Your Career
The skills you'll develop here - cross-functional program management, defense industry knowledge, stakeholder communication, and data-driven decision support - are among the most portable and in-demand in both the defense and commercial sectors. Junior PMs who come through fast-moving defense tech companies routinely move into senior PM, strategy, BD, and consulting roles in 3-5 years. At Rivet, you'll get there faster because you'll be doing real work from day one, not supporting someone else's work.
*Total compensation may vary within this range and is determined by years and level of relevant experience, job-related skills, education, and other factors. In addition to base salary, this role may be eligible for equity grants and other forms of compensation. Eligible employees also receive a competitive benefits package, including unlimited PTO.
EOE

Apply