Hiring a program manager: the market today
The short answer ·
2,045 open postings ask for a program manager as of Nov 11, 2026, from 488 employers. The median advertised pay is $157,249, taking the midpoint of each posted range. 1,009 of those postings are new in the last 30 days, so expect competition.
Who you're competing with
Open postings · Ayla, Nov 11, 2026
What it pays
Advertised pay (range midpoints), 1,271 postings with pay · OPM actual pay, Sep 2026
Questions buyers ask
How hard is it to hire a program manager?
Hard. 488 employers are hiring the role right now, led by BAE Systems Inc with 113 open postings.
What should I pay a program manager?
Advertised pay centers on $157,249. Federal staff in series 0340 average $178,702 in actual pay.
Where is a program manager being hired?
As of Nov 11, 2026, the most open postings for the role are in California (430), Virginia (197) and Colorado (101). Together they hold 36% of its 2,045 open postings.
Who can help me hire a program manager?
Ayla's recruiters, for government agencies and contractors. Send the role for a free market brief within two business days, then interview the people we find; you pay a placement fee when you hire.