Job Title: Program ManagerJob DescriptionThe Program Manager oversees multiple defense programs, ensuring they meet technical requirements, schedules, budgets, and customer expectations. This role is responsible for end-to-end program execution, including client engagement and coordination across cross-functional teams. The position focuses on land systems or defense manufacturing and requires a strong technical foundation combined with proven program management expertise. The individual will lead a local program in Tennessee and may work remotely, with potential future travel to Michigan as programs evolve.Responsibilities
- Manage multiple defense programs from inception through completion, ensuring successful delivery of all program objectives.
- Serve as the primary point of contact for customers, government agencies, and internal stakeholders, maintaining strong relationships and clear communication.
- Develop and maintain detailed program schedules, track progress, and implement corrective actions to keep programs on time and within budget.
- Coordinate cross-functional teams across engineering, manufacturing, and other disciplines to ensure aligned and efficient program execution.
- Identify and mitigate program risks and execution challenges, proactively addressing issues that could impact scope, schedule, or cost.
- Ensure compliance with Department of Defense (DoD) regulations, contractual requirements, and relevant industry standards throughout the program lifecycle.
- Prepare comprehensive program status reports and leadership briefings that communicate progress, risks, and key decisions.
- Collaborate with leadership on resource planning and execution optimization to support strategic business and program objectives.
- Identify opportunities for process improvements and technical advancements that enhance program performance and operational efficiency.
- Lead a local program in Tennessee, coordinating activities on-site and supporting travel requirements associated with program needs.
Essential Skills
- Program management experience within the defense industry, including managing complex, multi-stakeholder programs.
- Defense program management expertise with a focus on Department of Defense (DoD) and land systems programs.
- Strong technical experience in engineering, manufacturing, or defense systems that supports informed decision-making and stakeholder communication.
- In-depth understanding of defense contracts and DoD acquisition processes, including compliance and reporting requirements.
- Active Q Clearance.
- Ability to interface effectively with government, military, and internal stakeholders at multiple levels.
- Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills to manage complexity and drive program success.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and project management tools for scheduling, reporting, and documentation.
- 5+ years of program management experience within the defense industry.
- Bachelors degree in Engineering, Program Management, or a related technical field.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
- Experience managing land systems or other technically advanced defense programs.
- Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams in a matrixed environment.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills for preparing reports and delivering briefings.
- Ability to identify and implement process improvements and technical enhancements across programs.
- Comfort working in high-visibility roles with frequent customer and leadership interaction.
- U.S. Citizenship.
Work EnvironmentThe role is primarily based in an office work environment with a focus on defense and land system programs. The Program Manager will lead a local program in Tennessee and should be prepared for travel associated with program needs, including potential future travel to Michigan if working remotely. The position offers direct impact on critical U.S. defense and land system programs, high visibility with customers and leadership, and the opportunity to manage multiple complex, technically advanced defense programs within a stable, long-term defense sector setting. The work involves regular use of standard office technologies, Microsoft Office, and project management tools in a professional, collaborative environment. Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract to Hire position based out of Auburn Hills, MI. Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $60.00 - $70.00/hr. Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits
available for this temporary role may include the following:
Medical, dental & vision Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital 401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) Short and long-term disability Health Spending Account (HSA) Transportation benefits Employee Assistance Program Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave) Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract to Hire position based out of Auburn Hills, MI. Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on Nov 11, 2026. Workplace TypeThis is a fully onsite position in Auburn Hills,MI.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 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.
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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.
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