ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Program Manager Defense Jobs in Torrance, CA (NOW HIRING)

Actalent

Technical Program Manager

Huntington Beach, CA

$138K - $179K/yr

Technical Program Manager - Defense Systems This role leads complex aerospace and defense programs that integrate engineering, manufacturing, quality, and customer requirements across hypersonics ...

New

Ignite Human Capital

Program Manager

Santa Fe Springs, CA · On-site

$90K - $140K/yr

Program Manager Aerospace & Defense Manufacturing | Southern California (On-Site) Salary : $90,000 - $150,000 DOE and Flexible About the Opportunity We are working with an established aerospace and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsProgram Defense JobsProgram Manager Defense JobsProgram Manager Defense Jobs in Torrance, CA

Program Manager Defense information

See Torrance, CA salary details

$40.2K

$112.2K

$163.9K

How much do program manager defense jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for program manager defense in Torrance, CA is $112,211.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,000.00 and $138,400.00 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 job categories do people searching Program Manager Defense jobs in Torrance, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Program Manager Defense jobs in Torrance, CA are:

What cities near Torrance, CA are hiring for Program Manager Defense jobs?

Cities near Torrance, CA with the most Program Manager Defense job openings:

Program Manager Defense jobs near you
Infographic showing various Program Manager Defense job openings in Torrance, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,211 per year, or $53.9 per hour.

Program Manager - Defense Winch Systems

Anaheim, CA • On-site

Hornet Acquisition Co LLC
See more jobs at Hornet Acquisition Co LLCexternal

$150K - $170K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Description:

Signia Aerospace is a global, integrated provider of high-performance systems and specialized components for the aerospace industry. Signia designs, manufactures, and services a wide range of products, that include mission equipment, thermal management systems, engine technology, and propellers. The Signia brands are leaders in their respective markets and provide a compelling value proposition to both aerospace and defense OEMs and end-users.


Onboard Systems Hoist & Winch, located in Anaheim, CA is one of the world’s leading providers of Search & Rescue (SAR) and Human External Cargo (HEC) advanced mission equipment for civil, commercial, and military helicopters.


Position Overview 


Location: Anaheim, CA (On-site/Hybrid) 

Schedule: Monday - Friday 

Pay: $150,000 - $170,000 per year 


The Program Manager is responsible for end-to-end management of complex military programs, including New Product Introduction (NPI), production deliveries (order book), and repair/overhaul (MRO) activities. This role requires direct interaction with major defense OEMs (domestic and international) and prime contractors, ensuring on-time delivery, cost control, and full compliance with contractual and regulatory requirements across all program phases. 


What You’ll Do

  • Own the full program lifecycle, from proposal through production, delivery, and sustainment. 
  • Manage the production order book, ensuring on-time delivery of new hardware in line with customer commitments and contractual schedules. 
  • Drive execution with operations and supply chain to meet delivery targets, resolve shortages, and manage backlog. 
  • Oversee repair/MRO programs, including turnaround time, quality, and customer satisfaction. 
  • Act as the primary interface with key defense customers.  
  • Translate customer requirements into executable plans across engineering, manufacturing, supply chain, and quality. 
  • Monitor and manage program KPIs, including schedule adherence, cost performance, backlog, and on-time delivery (OTD). 
  • Lead internal and external program reviews.  
  • Identify and mitigate risks impacting development, production, or repair activities. 
  • Ensure compliance with aerospace and defense standards (e.g., AS9100, FAR/DFARS). 
  • Coordinate cross-functional teams to ensure alignment between development, production, and aftermarket support. 
  • Support business development activities, including RFQs/RFPs, cost estimates, and proposal development. 

Who You Are


Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business, or a related field.
  • 5 + years of program management experience in aerospace/defense.
  • Proven experience across NPI, production programs, and MRO/repair.
  • Experience managing OEM or prime contractor customers.
  • Strong understanding of production environments, supply chain constraints, and delivery execution.
  • Solid grasp of program management fundamentals (cost, schedule, risk).


Preferred Qualifications

  • PMP certification, MBA or equivalent.
  • Familiarity with government contracting and FAR/DFARSs requirements.
  • Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems (e.g., SAP/IFS).
  • Cross-functional, informal leadership across engineering, operations, and supply chain 
  • Strong execution focus and delivery accountability 
  • Customer-facing communication and negotiation 
  • Structured problem-solving under pressure 
  • Ability to manage competing priorities (NPI vs production vs repair) 


What’s In It for You

  • Benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life, disability
  • Paid time off and holidays 
  • 401(k) plan with employer contribution matching
  • In addition to offering competitive wages and benefits, Onboard Systems also offers the opportunity to increase your future earnings tied to growth in company performance. We recognize employee contributions toward growing the business through our unique Growth Participation Unit program (GPU). GPUs are tied directly to company growth and reward all eligible employees with cash when the business grows over time. 



All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, marital status, pregnancy, genetic information, or other legally protected status

Requirements: