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Uas Program Manager Jobs in Friendship, MD (NOW HIRING)

CHIEF ENGINEER

Hollywood, MD · On-site

$200K - $250K/yr

As the leading provider of ultra-long endurance Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), we have ... Program management experience  PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: * Prolongedperiodssitting at a desk and ...

Uas Program Manager information

See Friendship, MD salary details

$37.4K

$104.4K

$152.5K

How much do uas program manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for uas program manager in Friendship, MD is $104,352.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,200.00 and $128,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by a UAS program manager and how can they be addressed?

A UAS Program Manager often faces challenges such as rapidly evolving regulatory requirements, ensuring safety and compliance across operations, and coordinating the integration of new technologies with existing processes. Addressing these challenges requires staying current with FAA regulations, fostering clear communication between technical teams and stakeholders, and implementing structured project management methods. Building strong relationships with regulatory bodies and investing in ongoing training for team members also helps to maintain operational efficiency and program success.

What is a UAS program manager?

UAS Program Managers are professionals responsible for overseeing the development, implementation, and operation of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), commonly known as drones, within an organization or agency. Their duties include managing teams, ensuring compliance with aviation regulations, coordinating projects, and overseeing budgets and timelines. They also work closely with stakeholders to ensure that UAS programs align with organizational goals and safety standards. UAS Program Managers often possess expertise in aviation, engineering, project management, and regulatory compliance.

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

To thrive as a UAS Program Manager, you need expertise in unmanned aerial systems, project management experience, and a relevant degree in engineering, aviation, or a related field. Familiarity with UAS operations, FAA regulations, project management software, and often certifications such as PMP or Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate are typically required. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills help you coordinate teams and manage complex projects effectively. These competencies are crucial for ensuring program success, regulatory compliance, and safe, efficient UAS operations.

What is the difference between Uas Program Manager vs Uas Operations Manager?

AspectUas Program ManagerUas Operations Manager
CertificationsFAA Part 107, PMP (optional)FAA Part 107, Safety certifications
Work EnvironmentProject planning, coordination, client communicationOperational oversight, team management, flight operations
Employer & IndustryDrone service providers, aerospace companiesDrone service providers, logistics, infrastructure inspection

The Uas Program Manager focuses on managing drone projects, coordinating teams, and ensuring client requirements are met. In contrast, the Uas Operations Manager oversees daily drone operations, safety protocols, and team management during flight activities. Both roles require FAA certifications and industry experience but differ in scope—project management versus operational execution.

What cities near Friendship, MD are hiring for Uas Program Manager jobs? Cities near Friendship, MD with the most Uas Program Manager job openings:

Uncrewed Systems Portfolio - Program Manager 3

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Annapolis, MD

$184K - $276K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 361 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

88th of 538 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be availableCLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: YesCLEARANCE TYPE: SecretTRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescriptionAt Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.

The Uncrewed Systems Portfolio Manager / Program Manager 3 (PM3) leads a portfolio of uncrewed systems programs and initiatives from capture through execution and closeout. This role provides integrated leadership across cost, schedule, technical performance, and customer satisfaction, while driving a disciplined program culture and ensuring required program reviews and reporting are completed. The role also serves as a key interface with customers and internal stakeholders and translates portfolio strategy into executable program roadmaps and priorities.

Key responsibilities Portfolio leadership and governance

  • Own and manage a portfolio of uncrewed systems programs/efforts, prioritizing scope, resources, and timelines to meet portfolio objectives.
  • Conduct portfolio-level program reviews (at least monthly) and ensure key functional participation; document and route deviations/waivers for approval as required.
  • Perform program startup reviews within 60 days of contract award/authority to proceed.

Program execution and performance management

  • Lead overall program execution across acquisition, execution, and closeout phases to drive successful outcomes.
  • Maintain accountability for program performance, including budget, schedule (including IMS contributions), and customer-facing reporting.
  • Establish and manage program metrics; ensure standardized monthly reporting inputs are reviewed and approved for consistency.

Customer interface and stakeholder alignment

  • Serve as the program's primary interface in program relationships with the customer and coordinate across internal stakeholders to ensure aligned execution.
  • Prepare and deliver program reviews and briefings for customers and senior leadership.

Technical execution and digital engineering advocacy

  • Define program tasking and execution approach; coordinate with the customer to develop/shape the program statement of work/objectives, including digital engineering considerations as applicable.
  • Communicate requirements analysis approach and understand differences between traditional and model-based approaches.

Culture, compliance, and independent reviews

  • Foster an open, collaborative, inclusive, and disciplined program culture.
  • Approve and oversee the program's independent review schedule and ensure required reviews are completed on time.

Basic qualifications:

  • Bachelors degree and 8 years of DOD experience
  • Demonstrated experience leading programs or a portfolio of programs with accountability for cost, schedule, and performance.
  • Experience leading cross-functional teams and conducting program reviews and executive-level briefings.
  • Ability to translate customer needs and program objectives into executable plans, metrics, and reporting rhythms.
  • Must possess an Active Secret DoD Clearance to be considered for this role.

Preferred qualifications:

  • Uncrewed systems domain experience (UAS/UMS/UUV/USV), mission systems integration, autonomy, C2, communications, sensors, or payload integration.
  • Experience implementing digital engineering practices on programs (model-based approaches, integrated digital thread).
  • Experience establishing portfolio-level governance, monthly review cadences, and standardized reporting.
  • TS/SCI Preferred
Primary Level Salary Range: $184,300.00 - $276,500.00The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939