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Senior Program Director Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

DZYNE Technologies

Senior Program Manager

Irvine, CA · On-site

$175K - $210K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Senior Program Manager, alongside the Chief Program Engineer, plans and organizes all ... Direct engineering activities * Interface with clients and relevant staff * Prepare the Master ...

DZYNE Technologies

Senior Program Manager

Irvine, CA · On-site

$175K - $200K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Senior Program Manager, alongside the Chief Program Engineer, plans and organizes all ... Direct engineering activities * Interface with clients and relevant staff * Prepare the Master ...

Rivet

Senior Program Manager

San Diego, CA

$175K - $205K/yr

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Senior Program Manager serves as the overall lead, manager, and administrator for a ... Formulate, guide, and direct technical approaches for different programs. Define and negotiate with ...

Anduril Industries

Program Director, Dive XL

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$220K - $292K/yr

Ensure crisp comms and reporting at all levels: you will communicate to the Senior Leadership Team ... The Program Manager, Director should have the skillset to dive into any critical aspect of the ...

Na Oiwi Kane

Senior Program Manager

San Diego, CA · On-site

$175K - $205K/yr

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Senior Program Manager serves as the overall lead, manager, and administrator for a ... Formulate, guide, and direct technical approaches for different programs. Define and negotiate with ...

Rivet

Senior Program Manager

San Diego, CA

$175K - $205K/yr

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Senior Program Manager serves as the overall lead, manager, and administrator for a ... Key Responsibilities: • Formulate, guide, and direct technical approaches for different programs ...

Securitas Services

Program Director

San Jose, CA · On-site

$155K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Global Clients Americas Program Director Location: San Jose, California Compensation Base salary ... This is a senior, salaried leadership role focused on strategy, financial performance, and client ...

Visa Hunt

Program Director, Dive XL

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$220 - $292/hr

Ensure crisp comms and reporting at all levels: you will communicate to the Senior Leadership Team ... The Program Manager, Director should have the skill set to dive into any critical aspect of the ...

Securitas

Program Director

San Jose, CA · On-site

$155K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Global Clients Americas Program Director Location: San Jose, California Compensation Base salary ... This is a senior, salaried leadership role focused on strategy, financial performance, and client ...

MAOF

Case Worker (Senior Services Program)

Montebello, CA · On-site

$23.54 - $25.42/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Open until filled GENERAL SUMMARY Under the direct supervision of the Program Director, the Case ... The Senior Program Case Worker's duties include, but are not limited to, the following: * Work in ...

Alutiiq, LLC

Sr Program Manager

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$235K - $290K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Taxable Entity MCCALLIE ASSOCIATES INC Job Title Sr Program Manager Location CA Los Angeles AFB ... Optimize cross-program resource use - direct functional experts across multiple missile warning ...

Skanska USA

Program Director - SIS

Modesto, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Program Director Required Qualifications: * 10+ years experience as a Senior Project Manager, Program Manager or Director role leading commercial and/or public sector building construction projects ...

Skanska USA

Program Director - SIS

Pasadena, CA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Program Director Required Qualifications: * 10+ years experience as a Senior Project Manager, Program Manager or Director role leading commercial and/or public sector building construction projects ...

Skanska USA

Program Director - SIS

Modesto, CA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Program Director Required Qualifications: * 10+ years experience as a Senior Project Manager, Program Manager or Director role leading commercial and/or public sector building construction projects ...

CesiumAstro

Senior Program Manager

El Segundo, CA

$193K - $236K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

This position will assist the Director of Programs in improving standard processes, and implementing best practices for consistency across the Space Systems portfolio of programs. As a senior member ...

MasTec Inc

Senior Program Manager

Oakland, CA · On-site

$77.33 - $97.39/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Senior Program Manager will provide strategic and tactical guidance on enhancing the ... Develop and present program challenges and program improvement recommendations to directors and ...

Intren West

Senior Program Manager

Oakland, CA

$77.33 - $97.39/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Senior Program Manager will provide strategic and tactical guidance on enhancing the ... Develop and present program challenges and program improvement recommendations to directors and ...

CesiumAstro

Senior Program Manager

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$193K - $236K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

This position will assist the Director of Programs in improving standard processes, and implementing best practices for consistency across the Space Systems portfolio of programs. As a senior member ...

CesiumAstro

Senior Program Manager

El Segundo, CA

$193K - $236K/yr

This position will assist the Director of Programs in improving standard processes, and implementing best practices for consistency across the Space Systems portfolio of programs. As a senior member ...

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All JobsProgram JobsSenior Program Director JobsSenior Program Director Jobs in California

Senior Program Director information

See California salary details

$38.5K

$113.6K

$153.5K

How much do senior program director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior program director in California is $113,646.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $114,500.00 and $115,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a senior program director?

To thrive as a Senior Program Director, you need extensive experience in program management, strategic planning, and leadership, typically supported by an advanced degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with project management tools (such as MS Project or Asana), budgeting software, and sometimes certifications like PMP or PgMP are highly valued. Exceptional communication, negotiation, and team-building skills set standout leaders apart in this role. These capabilities are crucial for effectively overseeing complex programs, ensuring alignment with organizational goals, and leading cross-functional teams to achieve successful outcomes.

What is a senior program director?

Senior Program Directors are high-level managers responsible for overseeing multiple projects or programs within an organization. They provide strategic direction, ensure alignment with organizational goals, and manage teams of project managers or program coordinators. Their duties include budgeting, stakeholder communication, performance monitoring, and risk management. Senior Program Directors play a critical role in ensuring that programs are delivered on time, within scope, and meet the expected outcomes.

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

AspectSenior Program DirectorProgram Manager
CredentialsOften requires advanced degrees (e.g., MBA, PMP) and extensive experienceTypically requires a bachelor's degree; PMP or related certifications are common
Work EnvironmentStrategic leadership, overseeing multiple programs or departmentsOperational focus, managing specific projects or programs
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in large organizations, nonprofits, government agenciesCommon across various industries, including corporate, tech, and healthcare
Search & Comparison IntentHigh-level strategic roles, leadership responsibilitiesProject execution, day-to-day management

The main difference between a Senior Program Director and a Program Manager lies in scope and responsibility. Senior Program Directors focus on strategic oversight and leadership across multiple programs, often requiring advanced credentials and extensive experience. Program Managers handle specific projects, focusing on execution and operational management. Both roles are vital but differ in their level of strategic involvement and organizational impact.

How does a senior program director typically collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure program success?

Senior Program Directors play a crucial role in aligning multiple departments—such as product development, marketing, finance, and operations—toward common program goals. They facilitate regular meetings, set clear expectations, and coordinate resources to address challenges and keep projects on track. Effective communication and relationship-building are essential, as the director must balance the needs and perspectives of various stakeholders while maintaining focus on overarching objectives. By fostering collaboration, they help ensure that projects are delivered on time, within scope, and to a high standard.

What are the most commonly searched types of Senior Program jobs in California?

The most popular types of Senior Program jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Senior Program Director jobs in California?

For Senior Program Director jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Senior Program Director jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Senior Program Director jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Senior Program Director jobs?

Cities in California with the most Senior Program Director job openings:

Senior Program Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Program Director job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,646 per year, or $54.6 per hour.

Senior Program Manager

DZYNE Technologies

Irvine, CA • On-site

$175K - $210K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

About DZYNE
DZYNE Technologies is leading the future of autonomous defense. Based in Irvine, California, we develop and manufacture advanced airborne and ground-based defense solutions deployed in over 50 countries. Backed by U.S. Government Programs of Record, our technologies are field-proven, scalable, and production-ready.
We're growing fast and looking for innovators ready to make an impact. At DZYNE, you'll join a culture built on collaboration, integrity, and purpose. We celebrate wins, value diverse perspectives, and support every team member's success.
Ready to do work that matters? Join us.
Position: Senior Program Manager
Location: Irvine, CA
Work arrangement: On-site
Position Summary:
DZYNE has an immediate need for a talented Senior Program Manager who will join our leading industry at our location in Irvine, CA. The Senior Program Manager provides leadership on assigned programs and acts to achieve financial, schedule, technical and client relationship/growth objectives. The Senior Program Manager, alongside the Chief Program Engineer, plans and organizes all engineering functions specific to the program, coordinates client interaction between the program team and client, provides guidance on recommended manpower and technical resource loading.
The successful candidate must have a strong design discipline background along with experience running engineering/design projects in the Aerospace and Defense industry.
Required Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Minimum of 15+ years. of industry experience as a Program Manager with a minimum of 10 years as a Senior Program Manager overseeing program execution - in the design/development program lifecycle phase - while ensuring that programs meet client quality, schedule, technical and budget objectives.
  • Prepare program execution plans, schedules, and budgets while participating in all phases of program work from conceptual design to manufacturing and delivery
  • Manage supplier change orders and material costs
  • Direct engineering activities
  • Interface with clients and relevant staff
  • Prepare the Master Phasing Schedules, Program Execution Schedule, Staffing Plan, Work Breakdown Structure and Financial Execution Plan
  • Utilize ERP for analyzing financial data and creating financial reports
  • Prepare and present monthly technical and financial program reports to senior and executive management, including Earned Value Metrics (EVM)
  • Ensure staffing and hiring plans are managed to ensure program and company success
  • Lead proposal development, including technical volume and cost volume basis of estimates
  • Manage subcontractor evaluation, selection, and then ensuring program and technical execution
  • Expert knowledge of the entire Microsoft Office Professional Suite, including Project
  • Work with product teams to transition development programs into rate production
  • Positive, "can-do" attitude and talent/experience leading people in a matrixed organization and cultivating a healthy customer relationship

Preferred Skills/Qualifications:
  • Understanding of Critical Chain Project Management, Earned Value and other project controls methods as they pertain to the Aerospace and Defense industry.
  • Experience across the product lifecycle
  • Experience in enterprise resourcing and planning tools
  • Exposure to multi-disciplinary engineering functions
  • Ability to interpret engineering technical drawings, work instructions, and test procedures.

Education/Experience:
  • Bachelor's degree in STEM field (Science, Technology, Engineering or Math)
  • Must have Aerospace or Defense Contractor industry experience
  • Experience transitioning from LRIP to rate production is a plus
  • Skilled in the use of IT tools, including ERP, MRP, and Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Project.
  • Ability to travel as needed for customer meetings, demonstrations, and business development activities
  • Experience in proposal generation and capture
  • Experience managing a range of concurrent engineering design projects is required.
  • Experience in expanding programs beyond initial phase and customer
  • High-level of EVM competency
  • Ability to create a winning proposal
  • Proven ability, capacity, and aptitude with planning, organizing, supervising, coordinating technical work, and obtaining cooperation from others (must be able to build rapport with program staff)
  • High level of scheduling skills (agile program management methodology a plus)

Clearance Level Required: No Security Clearance required, but it is highly desired
Travel: Yes, up to 15%
Working Conditions:
The diversity of work conditions may range from an environment where there is little or no physical discomfort, such as a general office environment or warehouse.
Physical Demands:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
  • Must have the ability to stoop, stand, climb, occasionally lift a minimum of 25 lbs.
  • Regularly required to crouch and reach to install/move equipment by bending forward at the waist or by bending legs and spine
  • Involves movement between departments, floors, and worksites to facilitate work.
  • May be performing physical activities including, but not limited to, heavy lifting and moving of items, climbing in and out of equipment, crawling, and working outdoors.

Export Control / ITAR Requirement:
This position requires access to information and technology subject to U.S. export control laws and regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). As a result, employment is contingent upon meeting applicable export control eligibility requirements and compliance obligations.
Work Authorization Requirement:
Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for current or future employment visa sponsorship.
Salary: $175,500-$210,000 annually
Salary depends on relevant work experience, education, training, essential skills, and/or other factors such as specialized or high-demand professions. In addition to the annual salary, the position will be eligible for an annual bonus. The pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of salary or annual bonus.
Benefits:
Our benefits are DZYNE'ed for your overall health and financial wellness. DZYNE offers a comprehensive healthcare benefits package. Base dental, vision, life, accident, disability, and other core benefits are fully covered by DZYNE. DZYNE provides paid time off and paid holidays. Additionally, DZYNE offers a 401 (k) plan with an employer match and immediate vesting.
DZYNE Technologies is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. In addition to federal law requirements, DZYNE Technologies complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which our company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment.
#LI-ONSITE
Pay Range: $175,500 - $210,000 per hour

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