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Program Manager Defense Jobs in Sterling, VA (NOW HIRING)

Adecco

Program Manager

Reston, VA · Hybrid

$129.92/hr

If Program Manager - Cyber Defense Program sounds like something you would be interested in, and you meet the qualifications listed below, apply now! Responsibilities for Program Manager - Cyber ...

New

Agile Defense

Deputy Program Manager

Reston, VA

$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 ...

Pae

Program Manager

Washington, DC · On-site

Amentum is seeking an accomplished Program Manager to lead a large, mission-critical intelligence support program for the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA). This executive leader will serve as the ...

Amentum

Program Manager

Washington, DC · On-site

Amentum is seeking an accomplished Program Manager to lead a large, mission-critical intelligence support program for the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA). This executive leader will serve as the ...

BryceTech

Program Manager

Arlington, VA · On-site

... defense. We specialize in systems engineering, advanced analytics, R&D programs, and strategic ... The Program Manager serves as the senior leader responsible for the overall management, direction ...

BryceTech

Program Manager

Arlington, VA · On-site

... defense. We specialize in systems engineering, advanced analytics, R&D programs, and strategic ... The Program Manager serves as the senior leader responsible for the overall management, direction ...

BryceTech

Program Manager

Arlington, VA

... defense. We specialize in systems engineering, advanced analytics, R&D programs, and strategic ... The Program Manager serves as the senior leader responsible for the overall management, direction ...

AMSG

Program Manger

Arlington, VA · Hybrid

Defense Capabilities Analysis, Development & Integration * Government Acquisition Management ... Program and Project Management * Technology Systems & Integration Consulting * Contracts * CDD IDIQ

KBR

Program Manager

Mclean, VA

$182K - $223K/yr

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 ...

KBR

Program Manager

Bethesda, MD

$182K - $223K/yr

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 ...

KBR, Inc.

Program Manager

Washington, DC · On-site

$182K - $223K/yr

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 ...

Goldbelt, Inc.

Program Manager

Silver Spring, MD · On-site

Goldbelt Apex is seeking an experienced Program Manager to lead a multidisciplinary team supporting the Defense Health Agency (DHA) Psychological Health Center of Excellence (PHCoE). This individual ...

New

Goldbelt, Inc.

Program Manager

Silver Spring, MD · On-site

Goldbelt Apex is seeking an experienced Program Manager to lead a multidisciplinary team supporting the Defense Health Agency (DHA) Psychological Health Center of Excellence (PHCoE). This individual ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsProgram Defense JobsProgram Manager Defense JobsProgram Manager Defense Jobs in Sterling, VA

Program Manager Defense information

See Sterling, VA salary details

$38.1K

$106.4K

$155.5K

How much do program manager defense jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for program manager defense in Sterling, VA is $106,424.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,700.00 and $131,200.00 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 Sterling, VA? For Program Manager Defense jobs in Sterling, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Program Manager Defense jobs in Sterling, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Program Manager Defense jobs in Sterling, VA are:
What cities near Sterling, VA are hiring for Program Manager Defense jobs? Cities near Sterling, VA with the most Program Manager Defense job openings:
Program Manager Defense jobs near you
Infographic showing various Program Manager Defense job openings in Sterling, VA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $106,424 per year, or $51.2 per hour.

Agile Program Manager

Cornerstone Defense

Bethesda, MD • On-site

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

  • Location: Bethesda, Maryland
  • Type: Contract
  • Job #3665

Title: Agile Program Manager
Location: Bethesda, MD
Compensation Range: $195k approximately
*Clearance: *Active TS/SCI w/ Polygraph needed to apply *
Company Overview:
Cornerstone Defense is the Employer of Choice within the Intelligence, Defense, and Space communities of the U.S. Government. Realizing early on that our most prized assets are our employees, we continually focus our attention on improving the overall work/life experience they have supporting the mission. Our Team is pushed every day to use their industry leading knowledge to provide end-to-end solutions to combat our nation's toughest and most secure problems. If you are looking for a place to not only be professionally challenged, but encouraged and supported by a company that cares, don't look any further than Cornerstone Defense.
Benefits Overview :
Cornerstone Defense offers a very comprehensive benefits package including, but not limited to: Medical, Dental and Vision Plans * Generous PTO Policy * 401(k) * HSA and FSA options * Life and Disability Insurance * Tuition Reimbursement and Training * Perks at Work Discount Program * Referral Program * Leads Generation Program * CollegeAmerica 529 * Fitness Reimbursement Program * Travel Assistance * Norton Lifelock Benefit Solutions * Life Planning Financial & Legal Services *
We are seeking a motivated, career and customer-oriented Agile Program Manager to join our team at Bethesda, MD, to provide unparalleled support to our customer and to begin an exciting and rewarding career. We are seeking an experienced Agile program management SME to lead and support our Agile program management transformation journey. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of Agile methodology (e.g., Scaled Agile (SAFe)) principles and practices, with a proven track record of implementing Agile methodologies across various teams and projects. The Agile program management SME will work closely with cross-functional teams, stakeholders, and leadership to drive continuous improvement and ensure successful delivery of high-quality products and services.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Lead the implementation and transformation of the Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe) within and across multiple organizations.
  • Facilitate SAFe ceremonies, such as PI Planning, Scrum of Scrums, System Demos, and Inspect and Adapt as part of Agile Release Train (ART).
  • Provide coaching and guidance to Agile teams, Scrum Masters, Product Owners, and leadership on SAFe practices and principles.
  • Develop and deliver SAFe training programs to build Agile capabilities across the organization.
  • Collaborate with stakeholders to define and prioritize the program and portfolio backlogs (emphasis).
  • Assist in the identification and resolution of impediments that impact Agile team performance and delivery.
  • Foster a culture of continuous improvement by identifying and implementing process enhancements.
  • Track and report on key performance metrics to measure the success and maturity of the Agile transformation (emphasis).
  • Stay current with industry trends and best practices in Agile and SAFe methodologies.

Qualifications
  • Active TS/SCI with poly is required.
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Management Information Systems, or a related field. Advanced degree preferred.
  • 10+ years of related experience with a minimum of five (5) years of experience in implementing Agile methodologies across portfolio, program and project levels.
  • SAFe certifications (e.g., SAFe Product Owner (POPM)), Agile Release Train Engineer, SAFe Scrum Master (SSM), SAFe Agilist (SA) and etc.) are required.

Apply