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Program Manager Defense Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Curtisswright

Program Manager

Santa Clarita, CA · On-site

Program Manager - Defense Electronics - Onsite Position Relocation may be available for select candidates We have a rewarding opportunity to for a Program Manager to join our team in Santa Clarita ...

Dayforce

Senior Manager - Defense

Pooler, GA · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

Provide advice and counsel to program management regarding Federal Contracting policies, laws, and ... DCAA"), Defense Contract Management Agency ("DCMA") and other Government audits. * Perform ...

New

Serco USA

Defense Acquisition Workforce Improvement Act (DAWIA) Level II or III certification in Program Management * Experience in all aspects of DoD acquisition program management-leadership, cost, schedule ...

Leidos

Acquisition Program Manager

Poulsbo, WA · On-site

$131K - $237K/yr

Position Overview We are seeking a highly experienced Senior Program Manager - Defense Acquisition & Logistics to lead and support complex Department of Defense (DoD) acquisition, logistics, and ...

pds

Program Manager - Aerospace & Defense

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$38.46 - $48.08/hr

Lead Mission-Critical Programs as a Program Manager for Aerospace & Defense Location: Tucson, AZ | Pay range: $38.46 - $48.08/hr | Schedule: Mon to Fri; 8am to 5pm PDS Tech Commercial is partnering ...

Jc

Senior Manager - Defense

Pooler, GA · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

Provide advice and counsel to program management regarding Federal Contracting policies, laws, and ... DCAA"), Defense Contract Management Agency ("DCMA") and other Government audits. * Perform ...

New

Leidos

Acquisition Program Manager

Poulsbo, WA · On-site

$131K - $237K/yr

Description Position Overview We are seeking a highly experienced Senior Program Manager - Defense Acquisition & Logistics to lead and support complex Department of Defense (DoD) acquisition ...

Leidos

Acquisition Program Manager

Poulsbo, WA · On-site

$131K - $237K/yr

Position Overview We are seeking a highly experienced Senior Program Manager - Defense Acquisition & Logistics to lead and support complex Department of Defense (DoD) acquisition, logistics, and ...

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Program Manager Defense information

See salary details

$38.5K

$107.5K

$157K

How much do program manager defense jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for program manager defense in the United States is $107,460.00, 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 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.

More about Program Manager Defense jobs

What cities are hiring for Program Manager Defense jobs?

Cities with the most Program Manager Defense job openings:

What states have the most Program Manager Defense jobs?

States with the most job openings for Program Manager Defense jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Program Manager Defense jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Program Manager Defense jobs are:

Program Manager Defense jobs near you
Infographic showing various Program Manager Defense job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,460 per year, or $51.7 per hour.

Defense Program Manager

Blueprint Creative Group

Washington, DC • On-site

Contractor

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Are you a mission-driven leader with deep federal program experience? Are you a former federal leader or specialist recently impacted by agency workforce reductions?
Blueprint Creative Group is selectively engaging domain-experienced professionals ready to co-architect the next era of federal transformation. From defense, health systems, cyber mission support, and readiness operations, we're building forward-looking solutions-and we want your expertise.
Who We're looking for:
We're interested in connecting with leaders, program managers and intelligence professionals who bring deep operational or strategic expertise in: Defense Readiness (TRADOC, Guard, OSD, DHA) Cybersecurity, Resilience, and Risk (CISA, DISA, IC) Public Health & Emergency Preparedness (HHS, CDC, ASPR, FEMA) Intelligence & Homeland Security (DHS, CBP, DTRA, FEMA, DIA). If you've supported large-scale programs, mission-critical infrastructure, or led modernization efforts in a federal context-your insight is invaluable in this new contracting environment.
Your Impact Areas:
  • Strategic support for mission-critical programs in defense, health, or cybersecurity
  • Advisory roles shaping modernization efforts across DoD, HHS, or DHS agencies
  • Insight development on readiness, resilience, and federal performance reform
While this is not an immediate FTE hire, you will be considered for fractional or project-based roles as we pursue targeted opportunities. Roles may include:
  • Named Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) on federal opportunities
  • Solution co-designers for mission-aligned delivery models
  • Operational readiness and planning leads for defense and public health programs
You'll be part of a trusted internal talent network, positioned to engage as a named Key Personnel for new contract roles or opportunities we're pursuing.
Why Join Us
  • Work directly with a team focused on modernizing federal mission delivery
  • Access to project based and strategic advisory opportunities
  • Be considered for open positions on new or expanding contracts
Location: Hybrid (Washington, D.C. Metro Area or Remote)
Clearance: Active or previously held federal clearance preferred

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