ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Program Manager Defense Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

TCOM, L.P.

Program Manager

Columbia, MD · On-site +1

$140K - $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

$140K - $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 · 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 ...

Kratos Defense

Program Manager

Annapolis Junction, MD · On-site

Must have a PMP, FAC-PIPM Mid-Level, or Defense Acquisition Workforce Improvement Act (DAWIA) Level 2 certification in Program Management , and 1 year of demonstrated experience in the management and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsProgram Defense JobsProgram Manager Defense JobsProgram Manager Defense Jobs in Washington, DC

Program Manager Defense information

See Washington, DC salary details

$43.6K

$121.7K

$177.8K

How much do program manager defense jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for program manager defense in Washington, DC is $121,709.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,000.00 and $150,100.00 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 Washington, DC? For Program Manager Defense jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Program Manager Defense jobs in Washington, DC look for? The top searched job categories for Program Manager Defense jobs in Washington, DC are:
Program Manager Defense jobs near you
Infographic showing various Program Manager Defense job openings in Washington, DC as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $121,709 per year, or $58.5 per hour.
Program Manager, Defense & Commercial Innovation

Program Manager, Defense & Commercial Innovation

FedTech

Arlington, VA • On-site

$92K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Job Description
If you're passionate about driving the success of groundbreaking innovation programs - we'd love to connect!
Who we are:
  • FedTech is a group of entrepreneurially minded people on a mission to unlock the benefits of technology.
  • We believe in the value of deep tech and its positive impact on the world, aspiring to democratize access to it for entrepreneurs and professionals around the world.
  • We are venture builders who thrive at the intersection of US entrepreneurship, breakthrough technologies, and mission-driven organizations.
  • Since 2015, we have supported over 1,000 companies that have collectively raised more than $5B in funding, while also partnering with hundreds of corporate, government, and university clients.

What you'll do:
You will lead the design, execution, and growth of accelerator programs that support technology commercialization, venture creation, and strategic partnerships across the defense, homeland security, and dual-use innovation ecosystem. Ideal candidate would bring a strong program management background, thrive in fast-paced environments, and can build trusted relationships across government, industry, startups, and research organizations. This position requires a proactive, entrepreneurial mindset and the ability to manage complex, multi-phase initiatives from strategy through execution.
Typical functions include:
  • Lead and execute multi-phase accelerator and commercialization programs supporting defense, homeland security, and dual-use innovation sponsors.
  • Source, evaluate, and transition emerging technologies from federal labs, research institutions, startups, and international partners into commercialization and mission-driven opportunities.
  • Build and manage relationships with senior stakeholders across government, industry, venture, and innovation ecosystems to align program outcomes with mission priorities.
  • Advise participating startups and technology teams on government funding pathways, procurement processes, small business programs, and commercialization strategies.
  • Plan and host demo days, technology showcases, pitch competitions, testing events, and stakeholder engagements that connect ventures with end-users, acquisition leaders, and technical evaluators.
  • Track and communicate program performance metrics, including venture progress, commercialization milestones, stakeholder engagement, and ROI to sponsors and leadership teams.
  • Support operational execution through management of timelines, deliverables, budgets, reporting, and cross-functional coordination.
  • Represent FedTech at industry events, government forums, conferences, and partner engagements to strengthen organizational visibility and business development efforts.
  • Contribute to evolving organizational priorities by supporting new initiatives, strategic projects, and process improvements as needed

Successful candidates will have the following qualifications:
  • 5+ years of experience supporting defense innovation, technology commercialization, venture programs, or entrepreneurship initiatives, particularly within or alongside government organizations.
  • Familiarity with DoD, Navy, homeland security, or dual-use innovation ecosystems and related commercialization pathways.
  • Strong relationship management and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to work effectively across government, startups, industry, and research communities.
  • Demonstrated program or project management experience overseeing complex initiatives, coordinating multiple workstreams, and managing events or deliverables in fast-paced environments.
  • Strong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to facilitate meetings and convey complex information clearly to diverse audiences.
  • Analytical and detail-oriented, with experience using data and reporting to support decision-making and program success.
  • Comfortable using collaboration and productivity tools such as Google Workspace, Airtable, Slack, Beautiful.ai, Forecast, and similar platforms.
  • Highly organized, adaptable, and self-driven, with an entrepreneurial mindset and willingness to take ownership in a dynamic environment.

Our Values:
  • Boldness: We have the fortitude to forge new paths and push beyond our comfort
  • Unity: We treat our clients, team members and partners as we would like to be treated - we are one united team
  • Introspection: We recognize introspection is the necessary ingredient in which self-improvement flourishes
  • Leadership: We embrace servant leadership - putting the interests of client, team partners and partners first
  • Decisiveness: We have a strong bias towards action

Compensation:
  • Base salary range: $92-110k
    • The salary range listed for this position is based on market data and internal compensation structure. The final compensation package will be determined based on a variety of factors including, but not limited to, relevant experience, skills and education. This range is not a guarantee of compensation, and offers may fall outside this range in exceptional cases.
  • In addition to the base salary, compensation includes performance based bonus (OTE) and ability to earn equity
  • A competitive benefits package including 401K with employer match, health/dental/vision plans through Blue Cross Blue Shield, accrued PTO, professional development funds, employer paid disability insurance, parental leave, transportation and wellness reimbursements, amongst others.

Location:
  • Open to candidates in Arlington (VA), Austin (TX), Boston (MA), Los Angeles (CA), and Huntsville (AL)
  • Hybrid in Arlington, Austin & Boston; remote in Los Angeles and Huntsville.
Travel: 10-20% based on business needs

Apply