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Subcontract Program Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Work with the procurement team to ensure subcontractors are delivering products on deadline and ... Regular and comprehensive communication to the Sr. Programs Manager * Travel, as needed, to support ...

Program Manager Location: Ventura, California This position is contingent upon contract award. This ... Oversees vendor and subcontractors ensuring quality control and adherence to work schedules.Perform ...

Saalex Corporation is seeking multiple Program Manager in Tidewater, VA and San Diego, CA. Saalex ... subcontract expertise serving the Navy, Army, Air Force, NASA, corporate clients, and local ...

Program Manager

San Diego, CA · On-site

$95K - $160K/yr

Saalex Corporation is seeking multiple Program Manager in Tidewater, VA and San Diego, CA. Saalex ... subcontract expertise serving the Navy, Army, Air Force, NASA, corporate clients, and local ...

Subcontract Administrator

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$129K - $171K/yr

Work cross functionally with program management, technical, legal, proposal teams, contract managers, and procurement teams to lead subcontracts from end-to-end * Drive clear and detailed Statement ...

Program Manager

Edwards, CA · On-site

$100K - $180K/yr

... and subcontractors ensuring quality control and compliance to requirements · Validates all ... program management support services.

Senior Program Manager

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$123K - $124K/yr

Subcontract/Subcontractor oversight and Management * Profit/Loss Responsibility for Program activities * Cross Program Segment Integration and Coordination (where applicable) * Road block removal as ...

Senior Program Manager

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$275K - $312K/yr

You'll work as the program lead, representing Sphinx, and overseeing a number of subcontractors supporting Sphinx on this effort. What you will be focusing on: * Profit & Loss ownership. Managing and ...

Program Manager III

Poway, CA · On-site

$112K - $205K/yr

This Program Manager performs the role of the Manager of MQ-9 Training Systems which includes both ... Management of CAE subcontract to deliver next generation simulation effects. * Management of ...

Lead, Program Manager

San Diego, CA · On-site

$127K - $236K/yr

Demonstrated experience managing major supplier partners and subcontracts to perform. * Extensive Experience with earned value program management and risk management. * Experience leading matrixed ...

Lead, Program Manager

San Ysidro, CA · On-site

$127K - $236K/yr

Demonstrated experience managing major supplier partners and subcontracts to perform. * Extensive Experience with earned value program management and risk management. * Experience leading matrixed ...

Demonstrated experience managing major supplier partners and subcontracts to perform. * Extensive Experience with earned value program management and risk management. * Experience leading matrixed ...

Lead, Program Manager

San Diego, CA · On-site

$127K - $236K/yr

Demonstrated experience managing major supplier partners and subcontracts to perform. * Extensive Experience with earned value program management and risk management. * Experience leading matrixed ...

Showing results 21-40

Subcontract Program Manager information

See California salary details

$31.6K

$103.9K

$146.6K

How much do subcontract program manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for subcontract program manager in California is $103,937.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,900.00 and $121,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a subcontract program manager?

Subcontract Program Managers are professionals responsible for overseeing and managing the relationships and contracts between their organization and external suppliers or subcontractors. Their role involves negotiating terms, ensuring compliance with regulations and company policies, and monitoring performance to ensure that subcontracted work meets quality and schedule requirements. They work closely with project managers, procurement teams, and legal departments to mitigate risks and deliver successful project outcomes. Their expertise is crucial in industries like aerospace, defense, and construction, where managing multiple subcontractors is often required.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a subcontract program manager?

To thrive as a Subcontract Program Manager, you need expertise in supply chain management, contract negotiation, and project management, often backed by a relevant degree and industry certifications like PMP or CPSM. Familiarity with ERP systems, procurement software, and compliance tools is typically required. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills enable effective collaboration with vendors and internal teams. These abilities ensure timely and cost-effective delivery of subcontracted work while managing risks and maintaining project quality.

What are some common challenges faced by subcontract program managers when overseeing multiple suppliers, and how can they be effectively managed?

Subcontract Program Managers often juggle the coordination of several suppliers, each with their own timelines, requirements, and risks. A common challenge is ensuring consistent communication and alignment of goals across diverse teams, which can be addressed by establishing clear reporting structures and regular status meetings. Managing contract compliance and mitigating supply chain disruptions also require proactive risk assessment and contingency planning. Building strong relationships with suppliers and maintaining detailed documentation are essential practices that help in resolving issues quickly and keeping projects on track.

What is the difference between Subcontract Program Manager vs Contract Manager?

AspectSubcontract Program ManagerContract Manager
CredentialsProject management certifications, industry-specific experienceLegal or contract management certifications, negotiation skills
Work EnvironmentOversees subcontractors, manages project scope and timelinesDrafts, reviews, and negotiates contracts, ensures compliance
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction, aerospace, defense, manufacturingCorporate, government agencies, legal departments
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding subcontract management rolesLegal and contractual responsibilities

The Subcontract Program Manager focuses on managing subcontractors within projects, ensuring scope, schedule, and quality are met. The Contract Manager primarily handles contract negotiations, compliance, and legal aspects. While both roles require strong organizational skills and industry knowledge, the Subcontract Program Manager emphasizes project execution, whereas the Contract Manager concentrates on contractual agreements and legal risk management.

What are popular job titles related to Subcontract Program Manager jobs in California?

For Subcontract Program Manager jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Subcontract Program Manager jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Subcontract Program Manager jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Subcontract Program Manager jobs?

Cities in California with the most Subcontract Program Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Subcontract Program Manager job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,937 per year, or $50 per hour.

Development Program Manager

Stratolaunch

Mojave, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

Stratolaunch is a technology accelerator that engineers operationally realistic testing at Mach 5+. Our air-launched, Talon testbeds are reusable, cost-effective platforms that enable routine access to the hypersonic environment. We deliver flight data critical to validating system performance and achieving rapid technology deployment. Together with our customers, we drive innovations that are imperative to advancing national security.
To help achieve these efforts, Stratolaunch is seeking a Development Program Manager. In this role, you will report to the Program Element / Development Program Manager and be responsible for execution of programs/projects that will integrate into the broader Talon-A Launch System. You will interface with internal and external stakeholders on a regular basis to help develop requirements, manage schedules, and provide updates. You will be part of the hypersonic vehicle engineering team, collaborating with the manufacturing, engineering and operations. You will work with the Stratolaunch contracts team to ensure customer milestones are achieved. You will work with the hypersonic vehicle program management team to ensure the customer needs are communicated and integrated with program planning tools and flight manifests.
ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Lead an integrated product team through the full program life cycle
  • Develop budgets and schedules for managing assigned programs
  • Responsible for cost, schedule, and customer satisfaction
  • Make final decisions that affects cost and/or schedule constraints
  • Implement program management tools, as needed, to facilitate program execution
  • Contribute to developing statements of work, establishing program review gates, setting milestones with applicable entry and exit criteria, and evaluating subcontractor capabilities
  • Work with the procurement team to ensure subcontractors are delivering products on deadline and within budget
  • Evaluate risks and mitigation plans to determine adequacy and effectiveness
  • Lead the creation of proposals
  • Contribute to the company business plan with forecasts of schedule, budget, and personnel
  • Regular and comprehensive communication to the Sr. Programs Manager
  • Travel, as needed, to support the company and program
  • Demonstrate honesty, responsibility, integrity, and fulfillment of commitments

QUALIFICATIONS
  • To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

REQUIRED
  • Knowledge of, and experience with, one or more of these disciplines: aerospace program management, subcontracts and procurement, personnel management, aircraft systems, aircraft operations, launch vehicle integration, ground systems
  • Experience with technical aerospace leadership, including working with subcontractors
  • Experience with prototype manufacturing or low-rate production
  • Experience with risk management
  • Facilitation skills and ability to communicate technical challenges and guidance to varied audiences to gain support or resolve concerns
  • Strong analytical problem-solving skills and ability to implement sound critical thinking skills
  • Ability to work on their own initiative and prioritize tasking to fit within the business goals
  • Ability to obtain a security clearance at the TS level
  • Ability to quickly adapt to changing priorities
  • Ability to operate in a dynamic, fast-paced environment

PREFERRED
  • Experience with government agencies (customers and regulatory)
  • Experience with air-launch programs
  • Launch vehicle and/or aircraft integration experience
  • Large transport category or military aircraft operations experience
  • Experience with classified programs and working in a classified environment
  • Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE
  • Sr. Program Manager ($120,500-$158,000): Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Science (BS) or higher in a Business Management/Business Administration and/or Engineering discipline from an accredited institution and 5-10 years of relevant experience, OR equivalent combination of education and experience

  • Staff Program Manager ($157,000-$206,000): Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Science (BS) or higher in a Business Management/Business Administration and/or Engineering discipline from an accredited institution and 10+ years of relevant experience, OR equivalent combination of education and experience

Special remarks regarding work environment, if applicable
  • This position is located in Mojave, CA
  • Semi-frequent travel required to domestic locations

Base salary and leveling are established on a case-by-case basis. We consider several factors to ensure a competitive offer, including your location, educational background, and a comprehensive assessment of the skills and experience demonstrated during your interviews.
Benefits and our location(s)
:
  • 9/80 schedule
  • Healthcare (medical, dental, vision, prescription drugs)
  • Paid Maternity and Parental Leave
  • 50% company match per contributed dollar into 401(k) savings plan, up to $11,500
  • Tuition reimbursement

This position may involve the operation of company vehicles as part of assigned duties.
Mojave Air & Spaceport is located just outside of Lancaster/Palmdale and is only 95 miles north of Los Angeles. The area offers both affordability and central access to a variety of California's best attractions and landmarks.
Not much for the outdoors and prefer the city life? You're within a half day's drive or less of Los Angeles, San Diego, Las Vegas, and San Francisco where you can find a variety of live entertainment, museums, tours, and historical sight-seeing. Theme parks are in abundance, with Six Flags Magic Mountain, Disneyland, and Knotts Berry Farm ready to meet the needs of rollercoaster thrill seekers.
Food and drink fanatics are in a haven of delectable choices. Wine aficionados will also find easy access to some of the state's best vino in Paso Robles, Santa Ynez, and even more locally in Tehachapi and Agua Dulce. Beer fanatics will find some of the best West Coast IPAs at Bravery and Lucky Luke's in Lancaster. Any food option you crave is covered, and we always recommend the authentic and fresh Mexican food that you won't find anywhere else in the United States.
Stratolaunch is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity at our company. We encourage people from all walks of life to apply, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability or any other characteristic protected by law. Our management team does not tolerate discrimination or harassment at any point during our employees' and applicants' time with us, especially with respect to recruitment, hiring, placement, promotion, transfer, training, compensation, benefits, employee activities, and general treatment during employment. For purposes of transparency, U.S. Citizenship may be required for some positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.
Equal Employment Opportunity is the Law :
https://www.dol.gov/ofccp/regs/compliance/posters/pdf/eeopost.pdf