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Program Operations Director Jobs in Bethesda, MD

Plans and defines program goals and devises methods to accomplish them; develops in-depth knowledge ... Provide functional leadership and regular direction to program-specific operations staff.

The Operations Director will oversee all operational functions, projects, construction, and ... Manage preventative maintenance program and oversee any necessary repair or construction work to ...

Direct the process evolution required to scale the program effectively * Industrialization: Lead ... Technical Operations: Navigate the technical and process operational aspects of the A220 program to ...

Direct the process evolution required to scale the program effectively * Industrialization: Lead ... Technical Operations: Navigate the technical and process operational aspects of the A220 program to ...

Exempt Direct Reports: Specialist, Programs: Outreach & Operations Salary Range:$90,000-$112,000 *Salary is dependent upon experience* Work Location Washington, DC Metro Area - HYBRID ( 2 days in ...

Exempt Direct Reports: Specialist, Programs: Outreach & Operations Salary Range: $90,000-$112,000 *Salary is dependent upon experience* Work Location Washington, DC Metro Area - HYBRID ( 2 days in ...

The Program Director is responsible for ensuring the highest standards of care and overall ... Serve as financial stewards of operational input and output outside of simple expenses such as ...

We're looking for a dynamic and results-driven Center Operations Director - ABA Services (Non ... Employee Assistance Programs * Salary Range: $75,000-$85,000 base salary + bonus opportunity You ...

We're looking for a dynamic and results-driven Center Operations Director - ABA Services (Non ... Employee Assistance Programs * Salary Range: $75,000-$85,000 base salary + bonus opportunity You ...

Showing results 21-40

Program Operations Director information

See Bethesda, MD salary details

$36.4K

$115.2K

$192.1K

How much do program operations director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for program operations director in Bethesda, MD is $115,246.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,800.00 and $145,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Program Operations Director do?

A Program Operations Director oversees the daily operations and strategic management of programs within an organization. They ensure that programs are executed efficiently, meet organizational goals, and comply with relevant regulations and standards. Their responsibilities often include coordinating between departments, managing budgets, supervising staff, and evaluating program effectiveness. This role requires strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills to keep programs running smoothly and achieving desired outcomes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Program Operations Director, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Program Operations Director, you need strong leadership abilities, program management experience, and a background in business administration or a related field. Proficiency with project management software, data analysis tools, and relevant certifications like PMP are often important. Excellent communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills help you motivate teams and navigate complex operational challenges. These skills and qualities are critical for ensuring that programs run efficiently, achieve goals, and align with organizational strategy.

What are some common challenges a Program Operations Director faces in managing cross-functional teams?

A Program Operations Director often encounters challenges related to aligning priorities and communication across diverse departments such as finance, HR, and project management. Coordinating these groups requires strong organizational and interpersonal skills to ensure everyone is working towards shared objectives and deadlines. Additionally, adapting to shifting project scopes and managing resource constraints are frequent hurdles, making flexibility and problem-solving essential traits for success in this role.

What is the difference between Program Operations Director vs Program Manager?

AspectProgram Operations DirectorProgram Manager
ResponsibilitiesOversees multiple programs, strategic planning, and high-level operationsManages individual programs, project execution, and team coordination
Required CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor’s degree, often a master’s, with experience in operations or managementUsually requires a bachelor’s degree, with project management experience
Work EnvironmentExecutive-level setting, strategic planning, cross-department collaborationProject teams, day-to-day program execution, stakeholder communication
Industry UsageCommon in nonprofit, government, and corporate sectors for overseeing multiple initiativesUsed across industries for managing specific projects within programs

The Program Operations Director focuses on strategic oversight and managing multiple programs at a high level, while the Program Manager handles the execution of individual programs. Both roles require relevant experience and credentials, but the Director operates at a broader, more strategic level.

What job categories do people searching Program Operations Director jobs in Bethesda, MD look for? The top searched job categories for Program Operations Director jobs in Bethesda, MD are:
What cities near Bethesda, MD are hiring for Program Operations Director jobs? Cities near Bethesda, MD with the most Program Operations Director job openings:
Infographic showing various Program Operations Director job openings in Bethesda, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $115,246 per year, or $55.4 per hour.

CUAS Operations Director

Parsons

Centreville, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago


Parsons rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 46 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

260th of 446 rated engineering


Job description

In a world of possibilities, pursue one with endless opportunities. Imagine Next!At Parsons, you can imagine a career where you thrive, work with exceptional people, and be yourself. Guided by our leadership vision of valuing people, embracing agility, and fostering growth, we cultivate an innovative culture that empowers you to achieve your full potential. Unleash your talent and redefine what's possible.

Job Description:

Provides direction and management for medium-to-large-sized projects within a larger program and ensures on-schedule completion within or below budget in accordance with contractual obligations. Responsible for the scope development, scope management, and commercial performance of the project to meet project goals and objectives. Plans and defines program goals and devises methods to accomplish them; develops in-depth knowledge of client objectives, contract terms, and corporate policies. Manages the project execution and coordinates the activities of the various functions supporting the effort as well as overseeing the activities of partners, teammates, or subcontractors as required. Establishes and maintains customer relationships to ensure the Parsons team is regarded as a collaborative partner in meeting the customer's goals. Fosters collaboration between internal peers on other programs by identifying opportunities for additional work scope delivered by other teams at Parsons. Adapts execution strategy to evolving customer priorities while ensuring that the overall program remains within budget and schedule.

Specific Responsibilities

  • Manage multiple large task orders related to Parsons' role in providing Counter Unmanned Aerial System (CUAS) solutions, services, and support to a diverse portfolio of customers.
  • Provide functional leadership and regular direction to program-specific operations staff.
  • Establish and maintain relationships and act as the company representative to customer peers.
  • Directly interact with and manage partner, teammate, and subcontractor execution.
  • Represent the customers' viewpoint and clearly flow down customer goals to the team.
  • Lead the detailed planning of new work scope proposed by the customer.
  • Manage the execution of planned work through all project lifecycle phases with responsibilities including:
    • Ensuring project/product requirements are clearly defined at the outset of the effort.
    • Ensuring project technical, financial, and schedule goals are met.
    • Promoting technical and commercial excellence on the project through application of Quality Assurance processes.
    • Tracking potential issues/risks and executing relevant mitigation plans.
    • Steering the team through reacting and resolving unexpected roadblocks.
    • Tracking program progress using clear, measurable metrics including Earned Value Management (EVM) metrics.
  • Provide regular status to the customer and internal leadership on execution efforts including progress metrics and recommended resolutions or mitigation plans for any issues.
  • Effectively collaborate with functional and technical organizations within Parsons to plan, staff, and execute the planned work scope.
  • Identify opportunities with current and additional customers for additional work scope for both the CUAS team and the larger Parsons organization.
  • Support proposal efforts and other marketing activities as required.
  • Brief customers and stakeholders on Parsons' CUAS capabilities, program status, and strategic direction.
  • Partner with Business Development to shape and win new business, contributing to pipeline management and capture strategies.
  • Drive the strategic direction of the CUAS business, aligning program execution with long-term organizational goals.

Required Qualifications:

  • Ability to obtain suitability for government or commercial customers as required
  • 15+ years of related work experience
  • The candidate will be expected to travel to customer sites in the NoVA area and to our Summit Point office as needed.
  • Ability to maintain a Secret Security Level Clearance
  • Previous project management experience on similar or related projects
  • Experience leading complex projects for US Government or commercial customers
  • Experience preparing and presenting programs for large, complex projects, including WBS generation, cost-estimating, and Earned Value Management (EVM) practices
  • Ability to work in a dynamic, fast-paced environment where rapid results save lives
  • Prior lead/leadership experience
  • Experience working in high-visibility roles
  • Demonstrated experience supporting business development, including proposal development and customer briefings
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills; comfortable briefing senior customers and stakeholders
  • Demonstrated ability to drive business strategy and align teams to organizational goals

Desired Qualifications

  • Top Secret Security Level Clearance
  • Experience with Counter-UAS or UAS programs
  • Experience with programs/projects for government or commercial customers
  • Familiarity with Agile development practices
  • Experience with all phases of the program life-cycle
  • PMP or equivalent certifications
  • Advanced degree (MBA, MS, or equivalent)
  • Experience with rapid prototyping and fielding of emerging technologies
  • Familiarity with international CUAS markets and export requirements

Security Clearance Requirement:

An active Secret security clearance is required for this position.This position is part of our Federal Solutions team.The Federal Solutions segment delivers resources to our US government customers that ensure the success of missions around the globe. Our intelligent employees drive the state of the art as they provide services and solutions in the areas of defense, security, intelligence, infrastructure, and environmental. We promote a culture of excellence and close-knit teams that take pride in delivering, protecting, and sustaining our nation's most critical assets, from Earth to cyberspace. Throughout the company, our people are anticipating what's next to deliver the solutions our customers need now.Salary Range: $157,500.00 - $283,500.00We value our employees and want our employees to take care of their overall wellbeing, which is why we offer best-in-class benefits such as medical, dental, vision, paid time off, Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), 401(k), life insurance, flexible work schedules, and holidays to fit your busy lifestyle!Parsons is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status or any other protected status.We truly invest and care about our employee's wellbeing and provide endless growth opportunities as the sky is the limit, so aim for the stars! Imagine next and join the Parsons quest-APPLY TODAY!

Parsons is aware of fraudulent recruitment practices. To learn more about recruitment fraud and how to report it, please refer tohttps://www.parsons.com/fraudulent-recruitment/.


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