ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Program Manager Defense Jobs in Wethersfield, CT

Kaman Corporation

Program Manager

Middletown, CT · On-site

The ideal candidate will have experience in managing all aspects of a production/manufacturing program from the ground up, interfacing with customers and government officials, defense industry ...

Presco Engineering

Program Manager

New Haven, CT · Hybrid

We are seeking an experienced Program Manager to lead complex engineering programs for high-impact clients in the defense and mission critical sectors. This role is responsible for overseeing the ...

Presco Engineering

Program Manager

New Haven, CT · On-site

We are seeking an experienced Program Manager to lead complex engineering programs for high-impact clients in the defense and mission critical sectors. This role is responsible for overseeing the ...

Presco Engineering

Program Manager

New Haven, CT · On-site

We are seeking an experienced Program Manager to lead complex engineering programs for high-impact clients in the defense and mission critical sectors. This role is responsible for overseeing the ...

Attalon

Sr Principal Program Manager

Bloomfield, CT · On-site

$112K - $203K/yr

This site combines advanced engineering and high‑quality manufacturing to support cutting‑edge technology for the defense market. Job Title Sr. Principal Program Manager Job Details Attalon ...

Belcan

Program Manager

Farmington, CT

$40 - $60/hr

Program Manager (Engineering & Operations) Pay Rate: $40 - $60/hr Job Type: Contract to Hire ... Experience within manufacturing, aerospace, defense, industrial, engineering, or technology-driven ...

Element Materials Technology

Program Manager

Enfield, CT · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

Overview Element Materials Technology is seeking a results-driven Program Manager to lead and manage key customer programs across our aerospace and defense portfolio. This role serves as the primary ...

Belcan

Program Manager

Farmington, CT · On-site

$40 - $60/hr

Program Manager (Engineering & Operations) Pay Rate: $40 - $60/hr Job Type: Contract to Hire ... Experience within manufacturing, aerospace, defense, industrial, engineering, or technology-driven ...

Element Materials Technology

Program Manager

Enfield, CT · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

Overview Element Materials Technology is seeking a results-driven Program Manager to lead and manage key customer programs across our aerospace and defense portfolio. This role serves as the primary ...

First Search Inc.

Program Manager

Bloomfield, CT

... defense to commercial and industrial markets. As the company transitions from R&D to ... LiquidPiston is seeking a highly driven Program Manager to lead and execute complex development ...

Element Materials Technology

Program Manager

Enfield, CT

$70K - $100K/yr

Element Materials Technology is seeking a results-driven Program Manager to lead and manage key customer programs across our aerospace and defense portfolio. This role serves as the primary point of ...

Element Materials Technology

Program Manager

Enfield, CT · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

Overview Element Materials Technology is seeking a results-driven Program Manager to lead and manage key customer programs across our aerospace and defense portfolio. This role serves as the primary ...

LiquidPiston, Inc.

Program Manager

Suffield, CT · On-site

Program Manager - Engine Development This role is fully onsite in Bloomfield, CT, five days per ... defense to commercial and industrial markets. As the company transitions from R&D to ...

LiquidPiston

Program Manager

Suffield, CT · On-site

Program Manager - Engine Development This role is fully onsite in Bloomfield, CT, five days per ... defense to commercial and industrial markets. As the company transitions from R&D to ...

Pratt & Whitney

CORE Program Manager

East Hartford, CT

$114K/yr

Not Required At RTX, the world largest aerospace and defense company, 185,000 great minds are ... Manage and aid in deploying digital technology resources to improve metrics that are lagging with ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsProgram Manager Defense JobsProgram Manager Defense Jobs in Wethersfield, CT

Program Manager Defense information

See Wethersfield, CT salary details

$38.5K

$107.4K

$157K

How much do program manager defense jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for program manager defense in Wethersfield, CT is $107,438.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,500.00 and $132,500.00 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 job categories do people searching Program Manager Defense jobs in Wethersfield, CT look for? The top searched job categories for Program Manager Defense jobs in Wethersfield, CT are:
What cities near Wethersfield, CT are hiring for Program Manager Defense jobs? Cities near Wethersfield, CT with the most Program Manager Defense job openings:
Program Manager Defense jobs near you
Infographic showing various Program Manager Defense job openings in Wethersfield, CT as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 30% Full Time, 68% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,438 per year, or $51.7 per hour.
Program Manager

Program Manager

Kaman Precision Products, Inc.

Middletown, CT • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Precision Fuzing and Sensors is actively hiring for a Program Manager in Middletown, CT. The Program Manager is responsible for the management of Legacy Production, New Product Development and IR&D / Engineering programs, ensuring that established contractual objectives/requirements are met. The ideal candidate will have experience in managing all aspects of a production/manufacturing program from the ground up, interfacing with customers and government officials, defense industry experience, and managing schedules, budgets, and deliveries.
 
Responsibilities:
  • Direct all phases of programs assigned from inception through completion.
  • Monitor the status of programs and schedules to ensure that the milestones and contractual requirements are accomplished.
  • Where problems occur, coordinate with appropriate functions to determine cause, impact and proper corrective action.
  • Work with established Integrated Product Team (IPT) for all programs to ensure adherence to schedule, budget and scope.
  • Lead preparation of project plans, proposals, negotiating statements of work and specifications, monitoring performance to operating budgets and acceptability of terms/conditions within the contract.
  • Act as primary customer contact for all programs assigned. Chair program meetings with customers.
  • Participate in design concepts, criteria and engineering efforts for product research, development, integration and test. 
  • Work in conjunction with Senior Management to develop new business or expand the product line with existing and new customers.
  • Establish milestones and monitor adherence to master plans and schedules; identify program problems and obtain solutions such as allocation of resources or changing contractual specifications/requirements.
  • Identify, prepare and implement cost reduction plans and trade studies. 
  • Coordinate external communications with customers.
  • Approve written reports, oral presentations to customers and direct communication with suppliers to resolve purchase item issues in accordance with purchasing guidelines.
  • Manage program data requirement, ensuring that all contract data requirements are submitted in accordance with contractual requirements. Establish and maintain programs files in accordance with department guidelines. Direct the submittal of value engineering change proposals.
  • Conduct and participate in program reviews and meetings and brief attendees on status of corrective actions, expected recovery date and recommendations for improved contractual performance.
  • Establish and maintain effective communication between functional departments to established schedules and all support departments to facilitate problem identification resolution. 
  • Interface with customers as required. Serve as liaison between customers and management to ensure customer program requirements, cost and schedule are maintained.
  • Assist in other activities/projects, as directed.
  • Ability to obtain/maintain security clearance.
 
Qualifications:
  • Bachelor’s degree in an Engineering or related discipline required. 
  • 7-10 years of experience in program management and manufacturing operations.
  • Working knowledge of program cost, schedule and technical performance. Fluent verbal and written skills required.
  • Demonstrated Program Manager (PM) with a successful track record of managing multiple programs.
 
Benefits:
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance.
  • 401k with employer matching contribution.
  • Generous Paid Time Off.
 
For more than 85 years, our team at Precision Fuzing and Sensors has designed, tested, and manufactured the fuzing and sensor systems that defense programs depend on — delivering mission-critical reliability from a single, vertically integrated facility in Middletown, Connecticut. Precision Fuzing & Sensors has spent more than eight decades at the forefront of fuzing technology for defense and aerospace applications, trusted by every branch of the U.S. military and allied nations across the globe.