1

Software Program Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Technical Program Manager

Chicago, IL · Remote

$132K - $172K/yr

Work you'll do The Technical Program Manager will lead end-to-end program management for large ... software, data, AI, network, and hybrid cloud infrastructure. These solutions are powered by ...

Technical Program Manager

Arlington Heights, IL · Remote

$129K - $167K/yr

Work you'll do The Technical Program Manager will lead end-to-end program management for large ... software, data, AI, network, and hybrid cloud infrastructure. These solutions are powered by ...

Role We are seeking a highly motivated Technical Program Manager to lead cross-functional ... Strong understanding of software development lifecycle (SDLC) and Agile methodologies * Experience ...

Sr. Technical Program Manager Location: Campbell, CA (On-Site) Travel: Regular travel to Shanghai ... You will work closely with software, hardware, systems, and operations teams to ensure projects ...

Senior Project/Program Manager Location-Type: Hybrid (3 days a week onsite in Northbrook, IL) Start ... Experience working with third-party software vendors and implementation partners * Strong knowledge ...

Program Manager I

Chicago, IL · On-site

$127K - $160K/yr

Strategic Program & Initiative Management * Lead multiple complex, high-risk, high-visibility ... Advanced proficiency with PC tools and project planning software (e.g., Microsoft Project ...

Senior Project/Program Manager Location-Type: Hybrid (3 days a week onsite in Northbrook, IL) Start ... Experience working with third-party software vendors and implementation partners * Strong knowledge ...

Staff Technical Program Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$133K - $172K/yr

MongoDB is a leading company focused on empowering innovators through software and data. The Staff Technical Program Manager will oversee the successful delivery of complex, cross-functional projects ...

Program Manager Senior

Lincolnshire, IL · Hybrid

$122K - $122K/yr

The Program Manager Senior position will play an important role in advancing how Zebra manages ... Intermediate to advanced skills with project / portfolio management software (e.g., Smartsheet)

Sr. Program Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$119K - $120K/yr

Clearwater Analytics is seeking a Sr. Program Manager responsible for identifying and finalizing ... with Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) platforms and delivery model • Strong computer skills ...

Manages the programs budget and financial performance. * Coordinates the programs and their ... An understanding of software engineering practices including design, code quality, data structures ...

The RPA Program Manager will interface with stakeholders throughout the enterprise to help drive ... Minimum of 5 years of professional experience leading software automation and/or integration ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Software Program Manager information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$39

$63

$81

How much do software program manager jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for software program manager in Chicago, IL is $63.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58.17 and $70.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Software Program Managers?

Software Program Managers are professionals who oversee the planning, execution, and delivery of software projects within an organization. They coordinate cross-functional teams, manage project timelines and budgets, and ensure that software products meet business goals and quality standards. Their role involves risk management, stakeholder communication, and resolving any issues that could impact project success. Software Program Managers act as a bridge between technical teams and business leaders to ensure alignment throughout the software development lifecycle.

What is the difference between Software Program Manager vs Software Project Manager?

AspectSoftware Program ManagerSoftware Project Manager
ResponsibilitiesOversees multiple related projects, aligns them with business goals, manages interdependenciesManages individual software projects, focuses on scope, schedule, and deliverables
CertificationsPMI-ACP, PMP, Agile certifications often preferredPMP, Scrum Master, Agile certifications
Work EnvironmentStrategic planning, cross-project coordination, stakeholder communicationDay-to-day project execution, team management, task tracking
Industry UsageCommon in large organizations managing multiple projectsCommon in both small and large teams focusing on specific projects

While both roles involve project management skills, a Software Program Manager oversees multiple related projects to ensure strategic alignment, whereas a Software Project Manager focuses on the successful delivery of individual projects. The Program Manager handles broader coordination and stakeholder communication, often requiring similar certifications but with a focus on program-level objectives.

How does a Software Program Manager typically collaborate with development and QA teams to ensure project success?

A Software Program Manager works closely with both development and QA teams to align project timelines, clarify requirements, and address roadblocks as they arise. They facilitate regular meetings, such as stand-ups or sprint reviews, to ensure everyone is on the same page and that priorities are being met. By acting as a bridge between technical and non-technical stakeholders, Program Managers help ensure that quality standards are maintained while deadlines are achieved. Effective communication and proactive issue resolution are key aspects of their collaboration with these teams.

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

To thrive as a Software Program Manager, you need expertise in project management, software development life cycles, and a relevant degree, often complemented by experience in leading technical teams. Familiarity with tools such as Jira, Microsoft Project, and Agile or Scrum certifications is typically required for planning and tracking progress. Strong communication, stakeholder management, and problem-solving abilities are crucial soft skills for aligning teams and managing expectations. These competencies are vital to deliver projects on time, within scope, and to ensure effective collaboration among cross-functional teams.
What are popular job titles related to Software Program Manager jobs in Chicago, IL? For Software Program Manager jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Software Program Manager jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Software Program Manager jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Software Program Manager jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Software Program Manager job openings:
Sr. Program Manager

Sr. Program Manager

Chemring Energetic Devices, Inc

Downers Grove, IL • On-site

$160K - $213K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Lead a multi-functional program team to achieve project success.

  • Manage cost, schedule, and technical baseline within program constraints.

  • Lead overall proposal development activities and fulfill lead role in capture process for new or modified contracts.


Job description

Description:

As Chemring Energetic Devices (CED) celebrates 50 years of building products that protect our country, protect the individual warfighter, and send rockets into outer space, our growth is creating new opportunities to expand our team with talented individuals who want to shape the next era of mission-critical innovation.

CED is well situated in Downers Grove, Illinois - we are located a commuter train ride west of Chicago and a short drive from farmland.


CED's current salary range for this role is $160,000 to $213,000 / year. At CED, it is not typical for an individual to be hired at the top of the range for their role and compensation decisions may vary based upon, but not limited to education, skills, experience, proficiency, performance, shift, location and geography. In addition to base salary, the total compensation package may also include participation in a bonus, commission or incentive program. CED’s benefit offerings include medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid time off, disability insurance, 401(k) with company match, life insurance and other voluntary supplemental insurance coverages, plus parental leave, adoption assistance, tuition assistance and employer/partner discounts.


JOB SUMMARY

The Sr. Program Manager will attain company objectives by managing development and production programs, within the constraints of scope, quality, schedule, cost and delivery of mission and safety critical products that meet contract requirements. The Sr. Program Manager assumes operational oversight for assigned programs including marshalling the required resources across functions to ensure that unit production, repair and associated objectives are met. This position requires a leader with demonstrated program management expertise and proven experience leading programs in a matrixed and functional organization.

Requirements:

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

  • Effectively lead a multi-functional program team of contracts, engineering, finance, quality, purchasing, manufacturing, and business development personnel to achieve project success
  • Execute program activities in accordance with established company program management procedures
  • Management of cost, schedule and technical baseline within program constraints
  • Program Risk Management processes including mitigation plans and reports
  • Lead overall proposal development activities and fulfill lead role in capture process for new or modified contracts
  • Pursue related business growth opportunities
  • Approve, track and report all appropriate program expenditures
  • Assist management and team members in understanding, accepting and communicating budgeting, scheduling and measurement concepts, theory and alternative approaches
  • Organize program work utilizing the program plan and monitoring approach
  • Analyze validity of schedules, budgets, risks and actions submitted by program teams and outside parties contributing to the program
  • Produce comprehensive schedules, budgets, risk databases and action item lists in various formats and detail to suit different programs or audiences that document, sequence and integrate: action items, program tasks, production operations, supplier material, customer or government furnished material, data, or other project/program activity
  • Lead management, program team and customer meetings and document meeting minutes
  • Monitor actual progress, compare to baseline and report progress against schedule and budget as well as analyze and report trends and budget or schedule risk
  • Review contracts and solicitations to identify budget and schedule requirements, constraints, and forecast the impact of proposed change

OTHER JOB FUNCTIONS:

  • Comply with government and corporate laws, rules, regulations, policies and procedures
  • Ensures 100% compliance with the Chemring Operational Framework, Code of Conduct and U.S. Code of Ethics and Business Conduct
  • Other duties / responsibilities as assigned by leadership


SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY:

N/A


EDUCATION:

  • Bachelor’s in Engineering or related discipline
  • Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification; or ability to obtain within one year of placement


EXPERIENCE:

Minimum of 10 years Programs of Record (PoR) Program Management in Aviation/Aerospace/Defense industry


SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Lawful US Person (ITAR restriction)
  • Must be eligible to possess explosives under the Safe Explosives Act of 2003 (as amended) as required by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) for all employees of Chemring Energetic Devices
  • Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a dynamic environment
  • Frequent use and general knowledge of industry practices, techniques, and standards
  • Experience in electromechanical devices, applicable to aviation, aerospace and defense
  • Understanding of engineering principles combining hardware, software, and mechanical assembly
  • Familiar with principles of systems engineering
  • Proficiency in project management methodologies and software
  • Knowledge of applicable laws and regulations
  • Understanding of Department of Defense FAR’s and DFAR’s
  • Risk identification and management
  • Presentation creation and delivery
  • Developing and maintaining business relationships
  • Data analysis
  • Excellent problem-solving skills, sound judgment, initiative and creativity
  • Excellent interpersonal, communication, influencing, team leadership, and organizational skills
  • High energy and aggressive approach to issues
  • Work ethics of high integrity throughout all areas of internal and external business activity
  • Competent with computer software such as Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint, MS Project)
  • Team building, and delegating/coaching
  • Proposal generation, management and negotiation
  • Material and labor quoting
  • Staff and skill mix allocation
  • Project management planning, tracking, and adjustment
  • Willingness and ability to travel
  • Working knowledge of organizational constructs and dynamics, earned value management principles, manufacturing requirements planning, and business/proposal/contracts strategies


PHYSICAL AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS:

Lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, or otherwise moving objects, weighing up to 20 pounds occasionally and/or a negligible amount of weight frequently. Involves sitting much of the time but may involve walking or standing for brief periods of time. Routine and daily use of computer.


DISCLAIMER:

The preceding job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and essential job functions of this position. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job. Employees will be expected to perform other job functions and duties as may be needed and/or required.


EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Chemring Energetic Devices (CED) is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, genetic information and other legally protected characteristics.


The “Know Your Rights” Poster is available here: EEOC Know Your Rights

CED’s EEO Policy Statement is available here: CED EEO Policy Statement


CED is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities.

If you need a reasonable accommodation because of a disability for any part of the employment process, please send an e-mail to HR@ced.us.com or call (630)969-0620and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information.