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Program Manager Secret Clearance Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ARKA Group

Program Manager (Secret) {D}

Danbury, CT · On-site

The program manager is the primary interface with the customer ensuring mission success ... S. Government Security Clearance (we will consider candidates who have been debriefed within the ...

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Program Manager Secret Clearance information

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$38.5K

$107.5K

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

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for program manager secret clearance 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 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 required as 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, and why are they important?

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.

More about Program Manager Secret Clearance jobs
What cities are hiring for Program Manager Secret Clearance jobs? Cities with the most Program Manager Secret Clearance job openings:
What states have the most Program Manager Secret Clearance jobs? States with the most job openings for Program Manager Secret Clearance jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Program Manager Secret Clearance jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Program Manager Secret Clearance jobs are:
Program Manager Secret Clearance jobs near you
Infographic showing various Program Manager Secret Clearance job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 2% 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.
Software Technical Project Manager - Secret Clearance

Software Technical Project Manager - Secret Clearance

Rocket Lab Corporation

Long Beach, CA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

Rocket Lab rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 61 rated aerospace companies

Job description

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more – all with the goal of opening access to space. The rockets and satellites we build and launch enable some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation and missions to combat climate change, national security, and exciting new technology demonstrations.

Our Electron rocket has become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, all while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft that have been selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope.

SPACE SYSTEMS

At Rocket Lab, we're not just launching rockets — we're building the future of space. Our Space Systems team builds everything from complete spacecraft, precision payloads to the components and subsystems that allow them to thrive in space, like solar panels, flight software, star trackers, optical systems, separation systems, radios, and more.

Our Space Systems team has enabled more than 1,700 missions, ranging from interplanetary exploration, in-space manufacturing to national security and defense initiatives. The team has built spacecraft, payloads, and components for missions to the Moon and Mars, working with partners including NASA, the Space Development Agency, and the U.S. Space Force. Whether it's a single high-performance spacecraft, constellation, or the vertically integrated components that help them get to space — our world class Space Systems team is empowering some of the boldest and most ambitious space missions.

SOFTWARE TECHNICAL PROJECT MANAGER - SECRET CLEARANCE

Rocket Lab is looking for a driven Software Technical Project Manager, to be based out of our HQ in Long Beach, CA. This role will work with a team of engineers on Rocket Lab's flagship efforts to deliver on program milestones related to Space-to-Space Communications, Space-to-Ground Communications, Payload Software, and Data Security. The successful candidate will have prior experience managing software development efforts for embedded systems and government programs. Knowledge of secure network systems is a must have, with RF and spacecraft experience being an additional benefit. This role will report to the Senior Manager, Business Operations.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

  • Manage the software development and integration of routers, radios, and laser communication devices on a constellation of spacecraft.
  • Manage suppliers and subcontractors to successfully develop and test an integrated system
  • Interface directly with subcontractors, consultants, and internal engineering teams to develop and maintain roadmaps, product development plans, provide progress updates, and meet project delivery milestones
  • Design and develop simulation and test approaches for constellation networking
  • Define KPIs for contractors and internal development teams
  • Set the battle rhythm for subcontractors to provide feature drops to the overall program
  • Develop and maintain staffing plans with senior leadership
  • Plan major integration points and testing between teams
  • Lead software teams agile ceremonies including Increment Planning, Stakeholder reviews, and retrospectives / backlog refinement
  • Drive best practices for collecting feedback and implementing improvements
  • Develop and maintain software development standards and procedures to ensure that all software deliverables are of the highest quality and meet customer requirements

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Bachelor's degree & 8+ years industry experience in computer science, software engineering, aerospace engineering or similar technical discipline
  • 3+ years of experience with project management and interfacing with external contractors
  • Thorough understanding of network software
  • Thorough understanding of the software development lifecycle and agile methodologies including Scaled Agile (SAFe), etc.
  • Experience using Jira for software development management
  • Experience with systems engineering methods including systems trades, requirements management, performance characterization, and interface management
  • Active Secret clearance
  • U.S. citizenship is required, due to program requirements

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

  • Active TS/SCI clearance
  • Master's degree in aerospace, computer science, electrical engineering, or other technical discipline
  • An ownership outlook with the desire to build lasting systems and a willingness to identify gaps, develop plans to address them, and engage stakeholders to fill them.
  • Experience with SDA NEBULA architectures
  • Experience with Cyber Security controls
  • Experience with encryption
  • Experience leading a team utilizing agile methodologies
  • Project management qualifications such as PMP, APMP, etc.
  • Ability to identify and address problems with a proactive and systemic approach
  • Proficiency with project and engineering management tools such as Microsoft Project, Smartsheet, etc.
  • Experience with Docker
  • Experience with Kubernetes
  • Experience with DevSecOps
  • Ability to work under pressure and adhere to tight deadlines
  • Excellent communication skills, with the ability to build strong working relationships

This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas.

Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one component of our total rewards package at Rocket Lab. Employees may also receive company equity and access to a robust benefits package including: top tier medical HMO, PPO & a 100% company-sponsored medical HSA plan option, dental and vision coverage, 3 weeks paid vacation and 5 days sick leave per year, 11 paid holidays per year, flexible spending and dependent care savings accounts, paid parental leave, disability insurance, life insurance, and access to a 401(k) retirement plan with company match. Other perks include: Discounted employee stock purchase program, subsidized EV charging stations, onsite gym, food and drinks, and other discounts.

Eligibility for benefits may vary based on employment status, please check with your recruiter for a comprehensive list of the benefits available for this role. Benefit programs are subject to change at the company's discretion.

Base Pay Range (CA Only)
$150,000—$185,000 USD

WHAT TO EXPECT

We're on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that's not an easy task. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out-think, out-work, and out-pace. We pride ourselves on having each other's backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small. We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.

Important information:

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY:

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable. Learn more about ITAR here.

Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Johnson at g.biow@rocketlabusa.com.This dedicated resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from being able to apply/interview. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. A response to your request may take up to two business days.

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY:

For security reasons, background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant. These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States' International Traffic in Arms Regulations.

Under these Regulations, you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union, or a country that is part of NATO, or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality. For more information on these Regulations, click here ITAR Regulations.

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