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Program Manager Secret Clearance Jobs in Ridgecrest, CA

Backed by Falfurrias Management Partners, the platform brings together deep domain expertise across ... Active Secret clearance with ability to obtain a Top Secret clearance Education and Years of ...

Backed by Falfurrias Management Partners, the platform brings together deep domain expertise across ... Active Secret clearance with ability to obtain a Top Secret clearance Education and Years of ...

Readiness Insight Manager

China Lake, CA · On-site

$110K - $120K/yr

... Program Management, as required. Qualifications * Possess a valid US State driver's license * Ability to obtain and or maintain a secret security clearance * High School degree or equivalent

Showing results 41-60

Program Manager Secret Clearance information

See Ridgecrest, CA salary details

$38.2K

$106.7K

$155.9K

How much do program manager secret clearance jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for program manager secret clearance in Ridgecrest, CA is $106,720.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,000.00 and $131,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a program manager with Secret Clearance?

A Program Manager with Secret Clearance is a professional responsible for overseeing and coordinating projects or programs, often within government or defense sectors, who is also authorized to access classified information up to the Secret level. This clearance allows them to handle sensitive material and ensure projects comply with security protocols. Their duties typically include planning, budgeting, resource allocation, and ensuring project goals align with organizational objectives, all while adhering to strict confidentiality requirements. Obtaining Secret Clearance involves a thorough background check and is essential for managing projects involving national security or classified government work.

How does holding a Secret Clearance affect the responsibilities and collaboration of a program manager?

As a Program Manager with Secret Clearance, you'll typically oversee sensitive projects that require strict adherence to security protocols. This clearance level enables you to access classified information, making you a key liaison between technical teams, clients, and government officials. You’ll often work cross-functionally to coordinate project milestones while ensuring all team members comply with security regulations. Navigating the added layer of confidentiality can be challenging, but it also positions you for advancement into higher security roles and complex government programs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a program manager with Secret Clearance?

To thrive as a Program Manager with Secret Clearance, you need expertise in project management, budgeting, and risk assessment, typically supported by a bachelor’s degree and relevant experience in government or defense sectors. Familiarity with project management software (like MS Project), knowledge of federal acquisition regulations, and holding an active Secret security clearance are essential. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills help you manage teams and stakeholders effectively. These skills and qualifications are critical to ensure sensitive projects are delivered on time, within scope, and in compliance with security and regulatory requirements.

What is the difference between Program Manager Secret Clearance vs Project Coordinator Secret Clearance?

AspectProgram Manager Secret ClearanceProject Coordinator Secret Clearance
CredentialsTypically requires security clearance, PMP or similar certificationsMay require security clearance, basic project management certifications
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple projects, strategic planning, client communicationSupports project teams, handles scheduling, documentation
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, defense contractors, aerospaceGovernment agencies, defense, IT sectors

The main difference is that Program Managers with Secret Clearances handle broader, strategic responsibilities across multiple projects, often requiring advanced certifications and experience. Project Coordinators with Secret Clearances focus on supporting specific projects with more operational tasks. Both roles require security clearance but differ in scope and seniority.

What are popular job titles related to Program Manager Secret Clearance jobs in Ridgecrest, CA?

For Program Manager Secret Clearance jobs in Ridgecrest, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Program Manager Secret Clearance jobs in Ridgecrest, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Program Manager Secret Clearance jobs in Ridgecrest, CA are:

What cities near Ridgecrest, CA are hiring for Program Manager Secret Clearance jobs?

Cities near Ridgecrest, CA with the most Program Manager Secret Clearance job openings:

Strategic Customer Engagement Manager

Saalex

Ridgecrest, CA • On-site

$110K - $170K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

Saalex Corporation is seeking a Strategic Customer Engagement Manager in Ridgecrest/China Lake, CA. Saalex Corporation is a professional services company delivering cutting-edge solutions to the Department of War. Our expert-level solutions include software development, information technology, program management, financial management and business intelligence services. Saalex Corporation offers competitive compensation, career development, flexible work schedules and excellent benefits.

Position Type: Full-Time

Salary: $110k-$170k (depending on experience)

Work Location: Hybrid work/in-office. (see onsite requirements below).

**On-Site Requirements: Work location is hybrid/remote and may require periodic travel up to 50% to DoW customer sites, conferences, and industry events.

Essential Functions:

  • Develop and maintain strong relationships with government, military, and industry stakeholders throughout the Ridgecrest and Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake community.
  • Serve as a local representative and trusted point of contact for customers, partners, and community organizations.
  • Support strategic growth initiatives by identifying, qualifying, and advancing potential business opportunities aligned with company capabilities and customer priorities.
  • Help expand and manage a pipeline of opportunities across Test Range Operations and Maintenance (O&M), Wargaming, Software Development & Engineering, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Software Modernization, Intelligent Automation, IT, and Cybersecurity solutions.
  • Gather customer insight, mission requirements, and market intelligence to help shape growth strategies and future pursuits.
  • Collaborate closely with business development, capture, operations, and proposal teams to support opportunity development and customer engagement efforts.
  • Assist with customer meetings, industry days, conferences, technical exchanges, and community outreach activities to strengthen company visibility and relationships.
  • Support capture and proposal activities through customer research, relationship development, competitive intelligence, and opportunity tracking.
  • Help identify and establish strategic partnerships and teaming opportunities with government and industry organizations.
  • Promote company capabilities and solutions to existing and prospective customers while maintaining awareness of evolving mission needs.
  • Prepare customer engagement reports, opportunity summaries, and growth updates for leadership.
  • Maintain an active understanding of local government, defense, and industry initiatives that may create future business opportunities.
  • Foster long-term customer relationships that position the company for sustained growth and mission success.
  • Other duties as assigned or required.

Requirements

Required:

  • 5+ years of experience with Naval Programs supporting NAWS China Lake.
  • Strong professional network within the Ridgecrest/China Lake defense community.
  • Experience working with DoD, Navy, NAWCWD, government contractors, or related organizations.
  • Excellent communication, networking, and relationship-building skills.
  • Ability to represent Saalex professionally with customers, partners, and community stakeholders.
  • Self-starter capable of working independently while collaborating with leadership teams.
  • Experience supporting business development, capture, proposals, or customer-facing activities.

Desired Qualifications

  • Basic understanding of DoW acquisition lifecycle, FAR/DFARS, and major contract vehicles (e.g., GSA OASIS, IDIQs, MACs)
  • Experience supporting DoW agencies (Army, Navy, Air Force, Space Force, Marines)
  • Experience with DoW cybersecurity/compliance requirements (e.g., CMMC, NIST SP 800-171)

Security Clearance:

Must be eligible to obtain a Secret clearance. Requirements to obtain a clearance include US Citizenship, security investigation, etc.

Benefits

  • Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
  • Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
  • Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
  • Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
  • Short Term & Long Term Disability
  • Training & Development
  • Work From Home
  • Wellness Resources
  • Stock Option Plan