Develop and manage research strategies across key domains including power conversion, thermal ... programs, such as: * DARPA (Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency) * DOE (Department of Energy)
Develop and manage research strategies across key domains including power conversion, thermal ... programs, such as: * DARPA (Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency) * DOE (Department of Energy)
Develop and manage research strategies across key domains including power conversion, thermal ... programs, such as: * DARPA (Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency) * DOE (Department of Energy)
Develop and manage research strategies across key domains including power conversion, thermal ... programs, such as: * DARPA (Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency) * DOE (Department of Energy)
Darpa Program Manager information
See Columbus, OH salary details
$37.2K - $47.6K
5% of jobs
$47.6K - $58K
6% of jobs
$58K - $68.4K
9% of jobs
$74.9K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$68.4K - $78.8K
6% of jobs
$78.8K - $89.2K
5% of jobs
$89.2K - $99.6K
6% of jobs
$99.6K - $110K
5% of jobs
The median wage is $112K / yr.
$110K - $120.4K
31% of jobs
$120.8K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$120.4K - $130.8K
7% of jobs
$130.8K - $141.2K
15% of jobs
$141.2K - $151.6K
3% of jobs
$37.2K
$103.8K
$151.6K
How much do darpa program manager jobs pay per year?
As of Jun 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for darpa program manager in Columbus, OH is $103,796.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,800.00 and $128,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.
How much does a DARPA program manager make?
A DARPA program manager typically earns between $150,000 and $200,000 annually, depending on experience and qualifications. They often hold advanced degrees and have expertise in science, engineering, or technology, with additional benefits associated with government employment.
What is the difference between Darpa Program Manager vs DARPA Contract Officer?
| Aspect | Darpa Program Manager | DARPA Contract Officer |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | Advanced degrees in science, engineering, or related fields; experience in project management | Bachelor's or master's degree in business, finance, or related fields; contracting experience |
| Work Environment | Research labs, project teams, innovation-focused settings | Government procurement offices, contract management divisions |
| Employer & Industry | U.S. Department of Defense, research and development sector | U.S. Department of Defense, procurement and contracting sector |
While both roles operate within DARPA and the defense industry, Darpa Program Managers focus on overseeing innovative research projects, whereas DARPA Contract Officers handle procurement and contract administration. Understanding these distinctions helps candidates target their skills and career goals effectively.
How much does DARPA pay?
DARPA program managers typically earn between $150,000 and $200,000 annually, depending on experience and qualifications. Salaries are aligned with federal government pay scales for senior research and program management roles, often requiring security clearances and specialized expertise.
What are DARPA Program Managers?
DARPA Program Managers are specialized professionals who oversee and guide cutting-edge research and development projects funded by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA). They are responsible for conceptualizing new programs, managing project execution, coordinating with researchers and industry partners, and ensuring that projects meet ambitious technical goals. Program Managers typically have strong scientific or engineering backgrounds and are selected for their vision, expertise, and ability to drive innovation. Their work is critical to developing breakthrough technologies that enhance national security and defense capabilities.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a DARPA Program Manager, and why are they important?
To thrive as a DARPA Program Manager, you need an advanced degree in a STEM field, extensive research experience, and a proven track record in technology innovation or project leadership. Familiarity with government contracting, proposal review systems, and technical evaluation tools is typically required. Exceptional communication, strategic vision, and the ability to collaborate across disciplines are vital soft skills for success in this role. These competencies are crucial for effectively guiding high-risk, high-reward research projects that advance national security and technological innovation.
What are some unique challenges faced by DARPA Program Managers when overseeing innovative research projects?
DARPA Program Managers often face the challenge of managing high-risk, high-reward research initiatives that may not have clear precedents or guaranteed outcomes. They must coordinate multidisciplinary teams, balance ambitious timelines, and navigate strict government compliance requirements. Additionally, PMs need to foster collaboration between academia, industry, and government while ensuring projects remain aligned with DARPA's mission to drive transformative breakthroughs. This requires agility, resilience, and strong communication skills to adapt to changing priorities and technical uncertainties.
Is it hard to get a job at DARPA?
Securing a position as a DARPA Program Manager is highly competitive, requiring extensive experience in research, engineering, or science, along with a strong track record of innovation. Candidates often need advanced degrees, security clearances, and a demonstrated ability to manage complex projects. The hiring process involves rigorous evaluation and interviews, reflecting the agency's focus on high-level expertise and mission alignment.
What does a DARPA program manager do?
A DARPA program manager oversees the development and execution of advanced research projects in emerging technologies. They manage project teams, allocate funding, set technical goals, and coordinate with government agencies and industry partners to ensure innovative solutions are achieved within specified timelines.
What are popular job titles related to Darpa Program Manager jobs in Columbus, OH? For Darpa Program Manager jobs in Columbus, OH, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Darpa Program Manager jobs in Columbus, OH look for? The top searched job categories for Darpa Program Manager jobs in Columbus, OH are:
What cities near Columbus, OH are hiring for Darpa Program Manager jobs? Cities near Columbus, OH with the most Darpa Program Manager job openings:
Vertiv rating
6.9
Based on 60 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
305th of 417 rated machine equipment manufacturers
Job description
Job Summary
The VP, Advanced Research & Product Innovation is a strategic leadership role within Vertiv's CTO organization, responsible for driving breakthrough innovation in Horizon 3 technologies across disruptive data center infrastructure. This senior technical leader directs multiple research teams focused on next-generation domains including advanced materials, thermodynamics, power systems, AI/ML, and quantum computing infrastructure.
The role leads cross-functional initiatives and external partnerships to identify, develop, and integrate emerging technologies that enhance Vertiv's product portfolio and drive long-term revenue growth. As a recognized technology visionary both internally and externally, the incumbent is accountable for strategic planning, technology sourcing, and the development of advanced research strategies.
This position will be based onsite at Vertiv's Westerville, OH - HQ office location.
Responsibilities:
- Lead strategic planning and execution of Horizon 3 technology initiatives across Vertiv's CTO organization.
- Direct a matrixed organization of Research Scientists, Engineers, Data Experts, and Technology Strategists focused on breakthrough innovation.
- Develop and manage research strategies across key domains including power conversion, thermal management, AI/ML, advanced materials, and quantum computing infrastructure.
- Oversee feasibility studies, field trials, and technology sourcing to accelerate innovation and ensure successful technology transfer to business units.
- Build and maintain strategic partnerships with universities, national labs, and industry consortia.
- Manage a multimillion-dollar research investment portfolio and allocate resources effectively.
- Drive intellectual property development and present technology roadmaps and research outcomes to executive leadership.
- Ensure alignment between research initiatives, customer needs, and Vertiv's long-term product and technology strategy.
Requirements:
- Minimum 10 years of experience in advanced technology research, product development, or innovation leadership.
- Master's or PhD in Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, or related technical field.
- Proven track record of leading cross-functional teams and delivering strategic technology programs.
- Strong understanding of emerging technologies in data center infrastructure, AI/ML, power systems, and cooling.
- Excellent communication and external engagement skills with industry and academic partners.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Prior experience working with or securing funding from government-sponsored research programs, such as:
- DARPA (Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency)
- DOE (Department of Energy)
- NSF (National Science Foundation)
- Other federal labs, SBIR/STTR programs, or international equivalents
- Background in translational research, technology scouting, or innovation portfolio management.
- Demonstrated success in building public-private research partnerships or consortia.
- Experience with sustainability-focused innovation, such as energy efficiency, decarbonization technologies, or materials circularity.
Travel: 20% travel required for customer meetings, research partner visits, and conference attendance
The successful candidate will embrace Vertiv's Core Principals & Behaviors to help execute our Strategic Priorities.
OUR CORE PRINCIPALS: Safety. Integrity. Respect. Teamwork. Diversity & Inclusion.
OUR STRATEGIC PRIORITIES
Customer Focus
Operational Excellence
High-Performance Culture
Innovation
Financial Strength
OUR BEHAVIORS
Own It
Act With Urgency
Foster a Customer-First Mindset
Think Big and Execute
Lead by Example
Drive Continuous Improvement
Learn and Seek Out Development
About Vertiv
Vertiv is a $8.0 billion global critical infrastructure and data center technology company. We ensure customers' vital applications run continuously by bringing together hardware, software, analytics and ongoing services. Our portfolio includes power, cooling and IT infrastructure solutions and services that extends from the cloud to the edge of the network. Headquartered in Columbus, Ohio, USA, Vertiv employs around 20,000 people and does business in more than 130 countries. Visit Vertiv.com to learn more.
Work Authorization
No calls or agencies please. Vertiv will only employ those who are legally authorized to work in the United States. This is not a position for which sponsorship will be provided. Individuals with temporary visas such as E, F-1, H-1, H-2, L, B, J, or TN or who need sponsorship for work authorization now or in the future, are not eligible for hire.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Vertiv is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. We promote equal opportunities for all with respect to hiring, terms of employment, mobility, training, compensation, and occupational health, without discrimination as to age, race, color, religion, creed, sex, pregnancy status (including childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity / expression (including transgender status or sexual stereotypes), genetic information, citizenship status, national origin, protected veteran status, political affiliation, or disability. If you have a disability and are having difficulty accessing or using this website to apply for a position, you can request help by sending an email to help.join@vertiv.com.
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