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Program Manager Defense Jobs in Columbus, OH (NOW HIRING)

Contracts Manager

Ashville, OH · On-site

$99K - $130K/yr

... defense. A critical part of the Anduril team is its Contracts Managers, who play a crucial role in program success. They interface daily with a motivated team of program leadership, functional ...

Contracts Manager

Ashville, OH · On-site

$99K - $130K/yr

... defense. A critical part of the Anduril team is its Contracts Managers, who play a crucial role in program success. They interface daily with a motivated team of program leadership, functional ...

Contracts Manager

Ashville, OH · On-site

$81K - $108K/yr

... defense. A critical part of the Anduril team is its Contracts Managers, who play a crucial role in program success. They interface daily with a motivated team of program leadership, functional ...

Contracts Manager

Ashville, OH · On-site

$81K - $108K/yr

... defense. A critical part of the Anduril team is its Contracts Managers, who play a crucial role in program success. They interface daily with a motivated team of program leadership, functional ...

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Program Manager Defense information

See Columbus, OH salary details

$37.2K

$103.8K

$151.6K

How much do program manager defense jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for program manager defense 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.

What is a Program Manager in Defense?

A Program Manager in Defense is responsible for overseeing and coordinating large-scale defense projects, which may involve military equipment, technology systems, or defense-related services. They ensure that projects are completed on time, within budget, and meet all specified requirements and regulations. This role often includes working with cross-functional teams, managing contracts, and liaising with government agencies or military branches. Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills are essential, as is a thorough understanding of defense industry standards and protocols.

What is the difference between Program Manager Defense vs Project Manager Defense?

AspectProgram Manager DefenseProject Manager Defense
ResponsibilitiesOversees multiple related projects, strategic planning, and overall program successManages individual projects, ensuring specific objectives are met within scope, time, and budget
CertificationsTypically PMP, PgMP, or similar certificationsUsually PMP or CAPM certifications
Work EnvironmentOften in defense contractors, government agencies, or military settingsSimilar environments, focusing on specific project deliverables
FocusStrategic coordination and long-term goalsTactical execution of individual projects

While both roles require project management skills and certifications like PMP, the Program Manager Defense oversees multiple projects and aligns them with strategic objectives, whereas the Project Manager Defense focuses on managing specific projects to meet immediate goals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Program Manager in Defense, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Program Manager in Defense, you need a strong background in project management, defense acquisition processes, and often a relevant degree such as engineering or business, with security clearance frequently required. Familiarity with tools like Microsoft Project, Earned Value Management Systems (EVMS), and DoD-specific platforms, as well as certifications like PMP or DAWIA, are typically expected. Exceptional leadership, negotiation, and communication skills set top performers apart by enabling them to manage diverse teams and stakeholders. These skills and qualifications ensure effective project execution, compliance with defense regulations, and successful delivery of critical programs within scope, budget, and timeline.

What are some common challenges a Program Manager in the defense sector faces when coordinating multidisciplinary teams?

Program Managers in the defense industry often encounter challenges such as balancing strict security requirements with timely project delivery, managing cross-functional teams that include engineers, analysts, and government stakeholders, and ensuring alignment with evolving defense regulations. Navigating complex stakeholder expectations and adapting to shifting project scopes are also frequent hurdles. Successful Program Managers proactively foster communication across teams and maintain detailed project documentation to address these challenges.
What are popular job titles related to Program Manager Defense jobs in Columbus, OH? For Program Manager Defense jobs in Columbus, OH, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Program Manager Defense jobs in Columbus, OH look for? The top searched job categories for Program Manager Defense jobs in Columbus, OH are:
What cities near Columbus, OH are hiring for Program Manager Defense jobs? Cities near Columbus, OH with the most Program Manager Defense job openings:
Infographic showing various Program Manager Defense job openings in Columbus, OH as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 32% Full Time, and 67% Part Time. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,796 per year, or $49.9 per hour.
Computer Network Defense Analyst (EAIRS)

Computer Network Defense Analyst (EAIRS)

Horizon Industries

Columbus, OH

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago

Be an early applicant


Job description

Computer Network Defense Analyst - CND Analyst

Location: Fully On-site in Columbus, OH; Fort Belvoir, VA; or Battle Creek, MI

Employment Type: Full-time.

Clearance Required: Active Top Secret

Who we are:

Horizon Industries Limited (Horizon) is a dynamic IT and Management Consulting firm based in the Washington, DC area. Founded in 1996, Horizon Industries Limited (Horizon) has evolved into a company of highly qualified professionals that provides full-cycle IT consulting and Management support in both the private and public sectors.

Horizon's culture is based on our core values, and we PRIDE ourselves on a diverse, employee- and family-centric approach.

  • Summary of requirements:

    • 5 years relevant Cybersecurity/IT experience
    • IAT II: One of the following
      • CCNA-Security; CySA+; GICSP; GSEC; Security+ CE; CND; SSCP
    • CNDSP/CSSP-IR
    • Must have one of the "Computer Network Defense" CE Certifications within six (6) months of onboarding.
    • Active Top Secret
    • On Site: Columbus, OH; Fort Belvoir, VA; Battle Creek, MI

What are we are looking for:

We are looking for a CND Analyst that will:

  • Participates in 24x7x365 monitoring DLA's SIEM and other cybersecurity monitoring tools in an effort to detect and respond to cybersecurity threats within DLA's Enterprise Network Environment.
  • Performs actions to protect, monitor, detect, analyze, and respond to unauthorized activity.
  • Employs Cybersecurity capabilities and deliberate actions to respond to specific alerts or emerging threats.
  • Reviews logged events for trends that are indicative of attack or compromise within the environment.
  • Actively monitors logs and traffic for Advanced Persistent Threats (APT) and "low and slow" attacks within the environment.
  • Maintains awareness of possible threats through the use of intelligence resources to include Open-Source Intelligence (OSINT).
  • Provides technical analysis and sustainment support for the enterprise for IA tools and applications and assists with the application of Defense-In-Depth signatures and perimeter defense controls to diminish network threats.

Required Skills / Experience

  • Five (5) years of relevant IT experience.
  • Two (2) years performing root cause analysis of cybersecurity events and incidents
    • Working knowledge of at least at least two types of security tools:
      • Firewall
      • IDS/IPS
      • Host based antivirus
      • Data loss prevention
      • Vulnerability Management
      • Forensics
      • Malware Analysis
      • Device Hardening
    • Understanding of Defense-in-Depth
    • Ability to build scripts and tools to enhance threat detection and incident response capabilities (Preferably in SPL, Python, PowerShell)
  • Must possess a DOD Top Secret Clearance.
  • Must possess a relevant certification meeting the DOD 8570.01 IAT level II. One of the following:
    • CCNA-Security
    • CySA+
    • GICSP
    • GSEC
    • Security+ CE
    • CND
    • SSCP
  • Must maintain CNDSP/CSSP-IR
  • Must have one of the "Computer Network Defense" CE Certifications within six (6) months of onboarding.

Project Overview:

This project supports DLA Cybersecurity in performing CSSP functions for DLA to include but not limited to performing incident response and cybersecurity content development focused on but not limited to externally hosted programs and applications. Coordinates with DLA stakeholder groups to ensure incident handling is conducted across the enterprise to protect DLA data, networks, applications both internally and externally hosted in accordance with DoD directives.

Program Overview:

The JETS Program provides the full range of IT services, technical and management expertise that support applications, software, hardware, infrastructure, and systems, across the DLA IT Enterprise. Support is provided for information technology solutions, technical support, maintenance, and sustainment; operations support; application development, maintenance, and technical support; and lifecycle management. Additionally, the program also supports administrative program management support for IT program offices and DLA Information Operations (J6) Office. The program provides support technology services across the DLA Information Operations Enterprise, the DLA Program Executive Offices (PEO), and all other technology services currently supported through DLA Contracting Services Office (DCSO) acquisitions.

Why you will succeed at Horizon:

Horizon works at the forefront of new technologies and development practices and supports its employees in being trained and certified in the latest and greatest. As we continue to expand and grow the Horizon brand around the globe, we want to ensure that our team members are growing with us, as you are a vital part of our success story. This is a great opportunity for us to invest in our employees by supporting them with the right skills and tools to be successful in their careers.

You will find a career map with a focus on someone who wants to specialize in a technical track or a people management track. We will provide you with a series of personal and professional development opportunities to ensure you have the support and tools necessary to grow and achieve your goals. This includes personal career coaching and mentoring opportunities, among other initiatives.

Why you will love working with us/ Perks:

  • A comprehensive benefits package including healthcare (medical, dental, vision, and disability)
  • a 401 (k) program where you are 100% vested from day one with an employer match after 90 days.
  • An Educational Assistance program.
  • a Student Loan Repayment Program
  • Gym Reimbursement Program.
  • Paid Time off
  • Dynamics, a passionate, multi-disciplinary team of creative minds to work with, and many more.

Horizon is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer, and it is our policy to consider all applicants for employment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin.

EOE/Vet/Disabled