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Technical Program Director Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Program Mgr II

Maple Grove, MN · On-site

$149K - $254K/yr

... and direct the preparation of status and progress reports * Regularly evaluate performance of assigned program tasks in terms of quality, cost control, and achievement of technical, schedule ...

Program Director Supervisory Responsibilities: Managing the team at their site. Typical Schedule ... Provide supervisory oversight, technical guidance, and advice to staff. * Select staff, assign, and ...

Program Director Supervisory Responsibilities: Managing the team at their site. Typical Schedule ... Provide supervisory oversight, technical guidance, and advice to staff. * Select staff, assign, and ...

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The Senior Program Manager directs and coordinates the execution of technical programs to maximize ... Direct experience in the implementation of established program management methods; OR a combination ...

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Technical Program Director information

See Minnesota salary details

$87.2K

$142.6K

$165K

How much do technical program director jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for technical program director in Minnesota is $142,649.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $126,300.00 and $163,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Technical Program Director, you need expertise in program management, a strong technical background (often in computer science or engineering), and experience leading large-scale projects. Familiarity with project management tools (like Jira or Asana), agile methodologies, and certifications such as PMP or Scrum Master are commonly required. Exceptional communication, leadership, and strategic thinking skills help you manage cross-functional teams and stakeholders effectively. These skills ensure programs are delivered on time, within scope, and aligned with organizational goals in complex technical environments.

Is a TPM role stressful?

A Technical Program Manager (TPM) role can be stressful due to managing complex projects, tight deadlines, and coordinating multiple teams. The level of stress varies depending on the organization, project scope, and individual workload, but strong organizational and communication skills are essential to handle the demands effectively.

How does a Technical Program Director typically collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive project success?

A Technical Program Director works closely with engineering, product management, design, and business teams to align project goals and technical requirements. They facilitate regular meetings to ensure clear communication, resolve roadblocks, and keep all stakeholders informed of progress and changes. By fostering a collaborative environment, they help teams anticipate challenges early and maintain momentum toward shared objectives. This role often acts as a bridge between technical and non-technical departments, ensuring alignment and smooth project execution.

What is the difference between Technical Program Director vs Technical Project Manager?

AspectTechnical Program DirectorTechnical Project Manager
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's or master's degree in engineering, computer science, or related fields; certifications like PMP or PgMP are commonUsually holds a bachelor's degree in a technical field; PMP or similar certifications are often preferred
Work EnvironmentLeads multiple projects across departments, focusing on strategic alignment and long-term goalsManages individual projects, ensuring timely delivery and scope management
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in tech companies, large corporations, and organizations with complex product portfoliosWidely used in IT, software development, and engineering firms for project execution

The Technical Program Director focuses on overseeing multiple interconnected projects and aligning them with strategic business objectives, while the Technical Project Manager handles the day-to-day management of specific projects. Both roles require technical expertise and certifications, but their scope and responsibilities differ significantly.

How much does a TPM make?

A Technical Program Manager (TPM) typically earns between $100,000 and $160,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and company size. Senior TPMs or those in high-cost areas can earn over $180,000, often with bonuses and stock options included.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

In the US, high-paying roles such as senior executive positions, specialized surgeons, and successful entrepreneurs can earn $500,000 or more annually. Certain executive roles like Chief Executive Officers, Chief Financial Officers, and some technology leaders with extensive experience and stock options often reach or exceed this level of compensation.

What does a technical program director do?

A technical program director oversees the planning, execution, and delivery of complex technical projects within an organization. They coordinate cross-functional teams, manage budgets and timelines, and ensure technical goals align with business objectives, often requiring strong leadership, communication, and technical expertise. They may also use project management tools and frameworks to track progress and mitigate risks.
What are the most commonly searched types of Technical Program jobs in Minnesota? The most popular types of Technical Program jobs in Minnesota are:
What are popular job titles related to Technical Program Director jobs in Minnesota? For Technical Program Director jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Technical Program Director jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Technical Program Director jobs in Minnesota are:
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Technical Program Director jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Technical Program Director job openings:
Program Mgr II

Program Mgr II

BAE Systems

Maple Grove, MN • On-site

$149K - $254K/yr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


BAE Systems rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 145 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

5th of 46 rated military and defense


Job description


BAE Systems is hiring a Program Manager II (PM) to lead Air & Missile Defense (AMD) programs in Minneapolis, MN; this position could also be filled in Huntsville, AL. The AMD Directorate is part of the Combat Mission Systems (CMS) business and is responsible for developing and producing High Power Microwave (HPM) systems for the AMD Directorate. The Program Manager will be responsible for managing and delivering scope on our HPM program. The role reports directly to the Program Director High Power Microwave.
The successful candidate will have significant experience managing similar complex and high dollar value development programs. Additionally, they will have demonstrated leadership working closely with Contracts, Finance, Supply Chain, Legal, Operations, and Engineering in high priority programs. The HPM PM will ensure achievement of financial, schedule, technical, and new business performance objectives, and support other PGM Directorate initiatives such as development of strategic and financial plans for the Directorate.
Location/Schedule/Travel:
  • This role is onsite in Minneapolis, MN or Huntsville, AL
  • The role works a 9/80 schedule where you will have every other Friday off
  • There may be up to 50% travel

The Program Manager is accountable for the following:
  • Managing scope to achieve cost/profitability, schedule, and technical performance objectives
  • Performing as the Control Account Manager (CAM)
  • Establishing program direction for the matrixed team delivering the scope (engineering, field service, operations including supply chain and manufacturing, and/or others)
  • Establishing and managing subcontractors
  • Proactively planning for activities on current and future contracts
  • Monitoring and controlling activities on current contracts including disciplined, effective change management
  • Actively and effectively managing risks and opportunities
  • Indirectly managing, leading, and developing program team members across several functions
  • Making timely decisions with sound judgment while complying with policies and procedures
  • Continuously improving program performance including capturing, evaluating, and sharing best practices
  • Meeting financial commitments for orders, sales, profit, and cash flow

Responsibilities and day-to-day activities within this role include the following:
  • Negotiates with and manages customer expectations
  • Lead program capture including proposal development, Bid Status Reviews (BSR), and Request for Bid Approval (RBA); engage BD in all pursuit activities; and lead fact-finding and contract negotiations with the customer
  • Lead program start-up, organization, planning, authorization of work, program management, and change management of program according to BAE Systems life cycle management (LCM) processes to include:
    • Governance including program cadence and metrics; rolling action item list; design to cost/price to win; IRAD/NBE/capital planning; should cost and affordability analyses; integrated program team (IPT) and control account manager (CAM) leadership; integrated master schedule (IMS) management and linkage to trackers; and earned value management (EVM)
    • Formal program reviews, including the System Requirements Review (SRR), Preliminary Design Review (PDR), Critical Design Review (CDR), and Test Readiness Review (TRR)
    • SDRL, CDRL, and SOW validation and burn down; compliance and traceability to contract; and contract requirements flow down to suppliers
    • Risk and opportunity management, contingency management, program change control, and configuration management
    • Earned Value Management (EVM)
    • Technology Readiness (TRL) and Manufacturing Readiness Level (MRL) maturation
  • Develop comprehensive program/project plan from the statement of work (SOW), contract, and internal and external requirements
  • Develop product breakdowns (PBS), organizational breakdowns (OBS), and work breakdown structures (WBS)
  • In concert with project schedulers, IPT members, and functional leads, oversee IMS development including baseline budget and timeline detailed tasks using SOW, WBS, OBS, and PBS
  • Ensure program/project risks are identified and proactively managed by developing the risk management plan, leading initial risk identification and mitigation planning, and ensuring team is properly trained in risk management and participating in monthly risk reviews
  • Identify direct and indirect threats and opportunities, and implement actions to mitigate threats and capture opportunities
  • Responsible for completion of deliverables and on-time delivery
  • Assess and identify quality, design, materials, facilities, and workforce requirements required to reduce manufacturing risk
  • Lead make/buy and make/where strategies to support programs
  • Support development of long-term supplier strategy, multi-year strategic plan for the business area, and BAE Systems PGM strategy, identifying and developing new business opportunities
  • Represent the company at appropriate customer or sponsor meetings
  • Proactively keep upper management informed regarding program status and any technical, cost, schedule, or administrative problems within assigned programs
  • Establish, maintain, and promote effective customer relationships; coordinate work tasks with customer representatives and ensure customers are informed on status and progress of assigned programs
  • Coordinate program reviews and direct the preparation of status and progress reports
  • Regularly evaluate performance of assigned program tasks in terms of quality, cost control, and achievement of technical, schedule, performance, and contractual objectives
  • Facilitate effective and clear communication of program status, issues, and successes to all internal and external stakeholders
  • Identify and assess performance gaps to customer expectations or program objectives, initiate improvement plans to close the gaps, and utilizes metrics to verify performance to plan
  • Facilitate and attend supplier/subcontractor meetings and/or visits

Required Skills and Education
  • Bachelor's degree in a technical discipline or business management and 10 years of related experience or equivalent experience
  • Active Secret Security Clearance or the ability to obtain
  • Experience in Aerospace & Defense Engineering Development
  • Experience in Engineering/Technical Program/Project Management
  • Experience in relevant Development/Agile Program Management or managing the startup of similarly complex, high dollar value, strategic programs for the Department of Defense (DoD)
  • Experience leading complex Engineering Programs, Matrixed Teams, Program Lifecycle Reviews, and Financial reporting and analysis
  • Experience leading Program Risk and Opportunity (R&O) management activities to include identification and development of risk mitigation plans, scope management, program/project plans specifying goals, staffing, scheduling, identification of risks, contingency plans, and allocation of available resources
  • Knowledge of Department of Defense (DoD) acquisition and process to transition to program of record
  • Knowledge of Manufacturing/Production, Operational Excellence (OE), reducing AUPC through early implementation of DTUPC best practices
  • Knowledge of competitive Proposal Development, Capture Management, and Earned Value Management Systems (EVMS) within Firm Fixed Price Environment
  • Knowledge of Scope Management and Cost Estimating including estimate to complete/estimate at completion (ETC/EAC) processes
  • Knowledge of Program/Project Management methodologies, toolsets, process, and governance
  • Ability to effectively manage program complexities and structuring activities in times of ambiguity
  • Ability to manage and influence with internal and external stakeholders
  • Ability to operate independently and proactively
  • Customer focus and relationship building skills
  • Strong communication skills, written and verbal
  • Highly effective critical thinking skills

About BAE Systems Platforms & Services Posting
BAE Systems, Inc. is the U.S. subsidiary of BAE Systems plc, an international defense, aerospace and security company which delivers a full range of products and services for air, land and naval forces, as well as advanced electronics, security, information technology solutions and customer support services. Improving the future and protecting lives is an ambitious mission, but it's what we do at BAE Systems. Working here means using your passion and ingenuity where it counts - defending national security with breakthrough technology, superior products, and intelligence solutions. As you develop the latest technology and defend national security, you will continually hone your skills on a team-making a big impact on a global scale. At BAE Systems, you'll find a rewarding career that truly makes a difference.
The Platforms & Services (P&S) sector under BAE Systems, Inc does the big stuff: the armored combat vehicles, naval guns, missile launchers, and ship repair...just to name a few. Our employees take pride in the work they do and why they do it. They are on the front lines every day, building our products to protect the lives of those who serve. We may be biased, but we think P&S does some of the coolest work around, and we think you will too.
Preferred Skills and Education
  • Active Secret or Top Secret Security Clearance
  • Graduate Degree
  • Experience in the Directed Energy Weapons market
  • PMP Certification or similar
  • Experience in Lifecycle Management (LCM)
  • Experience in Control Account Manager (CAM)
  • Experience in Oracle or ERP
  • Advanced Excel skills

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