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Startup Program Manager Jobs in McKinney, TX (NOW HIRING)

Experience building scalable operational processes in startup or high-growth organizations * Active Secret Security Clearance * PMP certification or equivalent program management training

Experience building scalable operational processes in startup or high-growth organizations * Active Secret Security Clearance * PMP certification or equivalent program management training

... startup, and production execution. The Program Manager will oversee cost and schedule performance, foster customer communication, and lead a cross-functional team to achieve program objectives.

... for a startup, the stability and resources of a large, established organization, and the ... Community Program Managers are responsible for building a network of individuals from top ...

... for a startup, the stability and resources of a large, established organization, and the ... Community Program Managers are responsible for building a network of individuals from top ...

... for a startup, the stability and resources of a large, established organization, and the ... Community Program Managers are responsible for building a network of individuals from top ...

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Startup Program Manager information

See McKinney, TX salary details

$35.7K

$99.7K

$145.7K

How much do startup program manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for startup program manager in McKinney, TX is $99,727.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,800.00 and $123,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a startup program manager?

A Startup Program Manager is a professional responsible for designing, managing, and optimizing programs that support startup companies, such as accelerators, incubators, or corporate innovation initiatives. They work closely with entrepreneurs, investors, and mentors to provide resources, mentorship, and guidance to early-stage companies. Their role involves overseeing program logistics, selecting participants, organizing events, and tracking the progress of startups throughout the program. Startup Program Managers play a crucial role in fostering innovation and helping startups grow and succeed.

How does a startup program manager typically collaborate with founders and cross-functional teams to drive program success?

A Startup Program Manager often acts as the central point of contact between startup founders, mentors, investors, and internal teams such as marketing, product, and operations. They facilitate communication, coordinate resources, and ensure that startups in the program receive the support they need to reach key milestones. This requires strong relationship-building skills and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously. Collaboration may involve organizing workshops, conducting regular check-ins, and leveraging internal expertise to help startups overcome challenges and scale effectively.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a startup program manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Startup Program Manager, you need expertise in project management, business development, and a deep understanding of the startup ecosystem, often supported by a degree in business or a related field. Familiarity with tools like CRM platforms, project management software (e.g., Asana, Trello), and metrics tracking systems is typical, and certifications such as PMP can be advantageous. Outstanding communication, adaptability, and relationship-building skills set top performers apart in this dynamic environment. These competencies are crucial for successfully guiding startups through growth phases, fostering innovation, and ensuring program objectives are met.

What is the difference between Startup Program Manager vs Startup Project Coordinator?

AspectStartup Program ManagerStartup Project Coordinator
ResponsibilitiesOversees multiple programs, strategic planning, stakeholder managementSupports project execution, schedules, task coordination
Required SkillsProgram management, leadership, communicationOrganization, communication, task management
CertificationsProject Management Professional (PMP), Agile certificationsBasic project management knowledge, certifications optional
Work EnvironmentFast-paced startup, cross-functional teamsTeam support, project-focused environment

The Startup Program Manager typically handles multiple programs, focusing on strategic oversight and stakeholder engagement, while the Startup Project Coordinator supports specific projects with task management and coordination. Both roles require strong communication skills, but the Program Manager's role is more strategic and leadership-oriented, whereas the Coordinator's role is more execution-focused.

What are popular job titles related to Startup Program Manager jobs in McKinney, TX?

For Startup Program Manager jobs in McKinney, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Startup Program Manager jobs in McKinney, TX look for?

The top searched job categories for Startup Program Manager jobs in McKinney, TX are:

What cities near McKinney, TX are hiring for Startup Program Manager jobs?

Cities near McKinney, TX with the most Startup Program Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Startup Program Manager job openings in McKinney, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,727 per year, or $47.9 per hour.

Program Manager (R4930)

Shield AI

Dallas, TX

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company with the mission of protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. Its products include Hivemind autonomy software, V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft, and Aechelon simulation and synthetic reality technologies. With offices and facilities across the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific, Shield AI’s technology actively supports operations worldwide. For more information, visit www.shield.ai. Follow Shield AI on LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and YouTube. 

Job Description:
Seeking a Program Manager to lead execution and operational maturity for global Company-Owned, Company-Operated (COCO) unmanned aircraft system (UAS) deployments supporting contracted intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions. This role serves as the critical link between flight operations, logistics, sustainment, subcontractors, finance, and customer stakeholders to ensure successful deployment and sustainment of operational capabilities worldwide. The ideal candidate thrives in fast-paced, ambiguous environments and can drive disciplined execution across organizations while building scalable processes that enable continued growth and mission success. 
What you'll do:
  • Deliver proven, exceptional, and reliable performance in support of customer/end-user’s mission through flawless program management.
  • Effectively collaborate, motivate, and lead relevant stakeholders to successfully deliver early, under budget, and with exceptional technical performance. 
  • Manage customer relationships and act as the key point of contact for the program  
  • Astutely balance and rebalance shifting customer priories related to cost, schedule, and technical parameters of programs.  
  • Provide hands-on management of all aspects of the program 
  • Drive the accurate and timely tracking and reporting of budget, resource, and project management standard metrics  
  • Complete critical path analyses including the evaluation of potential means to accelerate the pace or mitigate identified risks 
  • Identify potential bottlenecks or delays in programs and drive efforts to ensure projects stay on schedule 
  • Partner with leadership to guide prioritization of projects and utilization of resources
  • Establish and lead a consistent cadence of well-organized, well-facilitated, and effective meetings, including driving all preparation and follow up activities
  • Support an environment where accountability and program execution excellence are core  
Required qualifications:
  • 5+ years of program management experience for Department of Defense programs
  • Ability to run advanced projects/programs consisting of multiple interrelated projects, in a manner that is largely self-directed 
  • Proven ability to focus on long-term business objectives 
  • Willingness and ability to travel domestically and internationally as needed 
  • Experience with scheduling tools such as Microsoft Project or Smartsheet
  • Excellent skills in leadership, time management, organization, team management 
  • Excellent interpersonal skills and verbal and written ability  
  • Expert understanding of complex project financials 
  • Demonstrated alignment with Shield AI's values and leadership principles, including accountability, trust, collaboration, and servant leadership
  • Ability to obtain a Secret Security Clearance 
Preferred qualifications:
  • Experience supporting unmanned aerial systems, aviation operations, ISR programs, or defense technology programs
  • Familiarity with aircraft sustainment, maintenance operations, or fleet management models
  • Experience managing subcontractors, external service providers, or distributed operational teams
  • Experience building scalable operational processes in startup or high-growth organizations
  • Active Secret Security Clearance
  • PMP certification or equivalent program management training
  • Undergraduate degree in engineering, business, or operations management 
#LI-AD6
#LD

Full-time regular employee offer package:
Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + Equity
 
Temporary employee offer package:
Pay within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days of employment)
 
Salary compensation is influenced by a wide array of factors including but not limited to skill set, level of experience, licenses and certifications, and specific work location. All offers are contingent on a cleared background and possible reference check. Military fellows and part-time employees are not eligible for benefits. Please speak to your talent acquisition representative for more information.
 
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Shield AI is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know. 

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.