Defense Manufacturing Program Manager

Position Title: Program Manager

About the Opportunity

Our client is an established organization operating within the defense technology sector, focused on delivering advanced tactical systems and mission-critical capabilities to support U.S. government and allied defense initiatives. The organization emphasizes innovation, reliability, and operational excellence in all aspects of its work.

Role Overview

Our client is seeking a highly skilled Program Manager to oversee and drive complex programs in support of Department of Defense (DoD) initiatives. This individual will be responsible for leading cross-functional efforts while ensuring alignment with customer goals, regulatory requirements, and internal strategic priorities. The role demands strong leadership, technical understanding, and experience navigating DoD acquisition frameworks.

The Program Manager will act as a key liaison between government stakeholders, senior leadership, and external partners, ensuring seamless communication and successful program execution.

Key Responsibilities

Program Leadership & Execution

• Direct and coordinate integrated teams spanning engineering, manufacturing, quality assurance, supply chain, procurement, and product development.
• Establish program objectives, timelines, milestones, and performance metrics in collaboration with internal teams, government representatives, and external partners.
• Ensure all program activities are aligned with customer expectations and organizational strategic objectives.
• Serve as a primary point of contact for program-related matters with government offices, program management organizations, and subcontractors.

Financial & Contract Oversight

• Develop and manage program budgets, including forecasting, cost tracking, and financial reporting.
• Lead contract execution and administration in accordance with applicable regulations, including FAR and DFARS guidelines.
• Oversee vendor and subcontractor performance, ensuring deliverables, timelines, and cost controls are maintained.
• Identify opportunities for cost optimization and implement efficiency improvements.

Technical & Strategic Coordination

• Work closely with technical teams to assess, incorporate, and deliver innovative solutions within program scope.
• Monitor progress against technical requirements and ensure deliverables meet both contractual and customer expectations.
• Promote continuous improvement initiatives and contribute to long-term program success through innovation and process enhancement.

Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensure adherence to regulatory requirements, including DoD acquisition standards and applicable export control laws.
• Proactively identify risks and develop mitigation strategies to minimize program impact.
• Maintain thorough documentation and provide accurate reporting to internal stakeholders and government customers.

Required Qualifications

• U.S. citizenship with eligibility to obtain and maintain a security clearance.
• Bachelor's degree in engineering, business, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of five years of experience managing defense-related programs or contracts within a DoD environment.
• Demonstrated expertise in financial management, contract execution, and vendor/subcontractor oversight.
• Strong working knowledge of federal acquisition regulations, including FAR and DFARS.
• Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams in a collaborative, results-driven environment.
• Active PMP (Project Management Professional) certification.
• Ability to understand complex technical concepts and effectively communicate them to diverse audiences.
• Excellent organizational, leadership, and communication skills.

Job Type & Location

This is a Permanent position based out of Stafford, VA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $170000.00 - $190000.00/yr.

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Stafford,VA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 19, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.