Project Program Manager Jobs in California
Project Program Manager jobs in California are among the most active in the country, concentrated in technology, defense, biotech, and infrastructure, with openings from coordinator-level through senior director. The largest hiring volumes are in the San Francisco Bay Area, Los Angeles, and San Diego, where employers like Google, Northrop Grumman, and Kaiser Permanente maintain deep project management functions. The most in-demand specialties are technical program management, IT portfolio management, and cross-functional product operations. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
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Reporting to the Associate Vice Chancellor-Budget and Institutional Analysis, the Director of Program Budget and Policy leads a team of senior professionals who provide analysis, information, and recommendations and decision support regarding the allocation of resources, budget and fiscal policies, and strategies. This position coordinates high-level analysis of campus-wide budget issues for campus leaders involving the distribution of the UC Davis operating budget, managed across over 20 distinct operating units. This position also manages key components of the annual campus budget process, governance of the campus budget system, regular monitoring of the financial status of campus units, oversight of student fee approval processes, and oversight of the faculty hiring approval process.Works directly with senior campus executives, and various campus units in situations that require sound financial and programmatic judgment and interpretation of University policy. Works regularly in cross-functional teams as a senior member and team leader. The incumbent is called upon to represent the Associate Vice Chancellor in meetings and communications involving the full range of operating budget policies and issues, management of centrally held resources and planning, and fee approval and implementation issues.
Apply By Date
11/29/2026 at 11:59pm
Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications - For full consideration, applicants are encouraged to upload license and/or certification if required of the position
- Bachelor's degree in management, economics, accounting, public policy or related field of study, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
- At least 7 years of experience in progressively responsible budget and financial management roles in a complex multi-fund source organization.
- Experience in aligning resources with goals in an environment of competitive demands for resources.
- Experience analyzing complex information and situations to identify problems and relevant factors, identify key issues in complex situations, evaluate options and formulate logical conclusions and recommend, initiate, and implement strategies for resolution.
- Experience with and understanding of short and long-range planning, and project management, including financial management/controls, budgeting, fiscal accountability and use of new technologies and resources.
- Experience using financial modeling concepts and tools with multiple assumptions and variables, and complex data to support organizational decisions.
- Demonstrated leadership experience and supervisory skills to recruit, select, train, support, assign, motivate and evaluate staff.
Preferred Qualifications
- A master's degree in Finance, Accounting, Business or Public Administration, Public Policy, Higher Education Policy, or a related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Experience in institutions of higher education and/or complex public sector organizations.
- Supervision experience and knowledge and skills to implement principles of performance management, multiculturalism and diversity, and coaching skills to enhance staff contributions to the organization's mission.
- Familiarity with UC financial and budget concepts, processes, policies and procedures. Knowledge and understanding of higher education policy issues at the university, state, and national levels
- Knowledge of UC Davis structure, systems, fee and rate policies, budget practices, authority and decision making infrastructure.
- Knowledge and understanding of the principles and practices of effective management.
Key Responsibilities
- 50% - Strategic Analysis/Budget Monitoring
- 20% - Annual Budget Process
- 15% - Student Fee Approval Processes and Oversight
- 15% - Special Projects, Communication and Engagement
Department Overview
Budget & Institutional Analysis (BIA) is a division of Finance, Operations and Administration that advises the Vice Chancellor for Finance, Operations, and Administration, the Provost and Executive Vice Chancellor; and other campus executives as to the efficient and effective management of the campus' resources. In addition, the division provides policy analyses on a wide range of issues, including enrollment, financial aid, budget allocation formulas and strategies, resource levels necessary to administer specific programs and activities in support of the mission, and institutional policies. Within BIA, the Budget Office provides decision support on the efficient and effective management of campus budget resources, manages the campus budget process and central resources, supports the system of record for instructional data, and is the office of record for student fees.
POSITION INFORMATION
Salary or Pay Range: $105,300.00/yr. - $208,500.00/yr.
- Salary Frequency: Annual
- Salary Grade: Grade 25
- UC Job Title: FINANCIAL ANL MGR 1
- UC Job Code: 000212
- Appointment Type: Staff: Career
- Percentage of Time: 100% Fixed
- Shift (Work Schedule): M-F, 8-5
- Location: Davis, CA
- Union Representation: 99 - Non-Represented (PPSM)
- Benefits Eligible: Yes
- This position is hybrid (mix of on-site and remote work)
Benefits
Outstanding benefits and perks are among the many rewards of working for the University of California. UC Davis offers a full range of benefits, resources and programs to help you bring your best self to work, as well as to help you and your family achieve your health, wellness, financial and career goals. Learn more about the benefits below and eligibility by visiting UCnet Benefits Page or Benefits Summary for UC Davis Health Employees or Benefits Summary for UC Davis Employees.
- High quality and low-cost medical plans to choose from to fit your family's needs
- UC pays for dental and vision coverage for you and your family
- Retirement plans for eligible employees including Pension and other Retirement Saving Plans
- Supplemental insurance offered including additional life, short/long term disability, pet insurance, legal coverage, accident, critical illness and hospital indemnity
- Pregnancy and Parental Leave, Family & Medical Leave, Adoption Assistance and Pay for Family Care and Bonding for eligible employees
- Lactation Support Program and Family Care discounts and resources
- Employee Well-being resources and programming to support thriving in all aspects of employee’s lives
- On-site Employee Assistance Program including access to free mental health services
- Generous amount of paid Holidays annually as outlined in the UC Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreements
- Paid Time Off/Vacation/Sick Time as outlined in the UC Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreements
- Continuing Education (CE) allowance and Staff Education Reimbursement Program for eligible employees
- Access to free professional development courses and learning opportunities for personal and professional growth
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Qualified Employer and Student Loan Debt Counseling Program for eligible employees
Physical Demands
- Standing - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Walking - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Sitting - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Lifting/Carrying 0-25 Lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Lifting/Carrying 26-50 lbs - Never 0 Hours
- Lifting/Carrying over 50 lbs - Never 0 Hours
- Pushing/Pulling 0-25 Lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Pushing/Pulling 26-50 lbs - Never 0 Hours
- Pushing/Pulling over 50 lbs - Never 0 Hours
- Bending/Stooping - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Squatting/Kneeling - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Twisting - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Climbing (e.g., stairs or ladders) - Never 0 Hours
- Reaching overhead - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Keyboard use/repetitive motion - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
Environmental Demands
- Chemicals, dust, gases, or fumes - Never 0 Hours
- Loud noise levels - Never 0 Hours
- Marked changes in humidity or temperature - Never 0 Hours
- Microwave/Radiation - Never 0 Hours
- Operating motor vehicles and/or equipment - Never 0 Hours
- Extreme Temperatures - Never 0 Hours
- Uneven Surfaces or Elevations - Never 0 Hours
Mental Demands
- Sustained attention and concentration - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Complex problem solving/reasoning - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Ability to organize & prioritize - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Communication skills - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Numerical skills - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Constant Interaction - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Customer/Patient Contact - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Multiple Concurrent Tasks - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
Work Environment
UC Davis is a smoke and tobacco free campus effective January 1, 2014. Smoking, the use of smokeless tobacco products, and the use of unregulated nicotine products (e-cigarettes) will be strictly prohibited on any UC Davis owned or leased property, indoors and outdoors, including parking lots and residential space.
Employee is personally responsible for following health and safety guidelines/instructions. Work flexible schedule. Restricted vacation during peak workload periods.
Special Requirements – Please contact your recruiter with questions regarding which activities apply by position
- This is a critical position, as defined by UC Policy and local procedures, and as such, employment is contingent upon clearing a criminal background check(s) and may include drug screening, medical evaluation clearance and functional capacity assessment
Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts a conditional offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; received notice of any allegations or are currently the subject of any administrative or disciplinary proceedings involving misconduct; have left a position after receiving notice of allegations or while under investigation in an administrative or disciplinary proceeding involving misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of misconduct with a previous employer.
A Culture of Opportunity and Belonging
At UC Davis, we’re committed to solving life’s most urgent challenges and building a healthier, more resilient world. We believe in growing through every challenge, continually striving to improve, and welcoming new perspectives that strengthen our community. We recognize that a vibrant and innovative organization values both individual strengths and shared purpose. The best ideas often emerge when people with different experiences come together.
As you consider joining UC Davis, we invite you to explore our Principles of Community, our Clinical Strategic Plan and strategic vision for research and education. We believe you belong here. The University of California, Davis is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age or protected veteran status.
To view the University of California’s Anti-Discrimination Policy, please visit: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/1001004/Anti-Discrimination
Because we want you to feel seen and valued, our recruitment process at UC Davis supports openness and authenticity. Research shows that some individuals hesitate to apply unless they meet every qualification. You may be an excellent fit for this role-or the next one. We encourage you to apply even if your experience doesn't match every listed requirement. #YouBelongHere
To learn more about our background check program, please visit: https://hr.ucdavis.edu/departments/recruitment/ucd/selection/background-checks
Reporting to the Associate Vice Chancellor-Budget and Institutional Analysis, the Director of Program Budget and Policy leads a team of senior professionals who provide analysis, information, and recommendations and decision support regarding the allocation of resources, budget and fiscal policies, and strategies. This position coordinates high-level analysis of campus-wide budget issues for campus leaders involving the distribution of the UC Davis operating budget, managed across over 20 distinct operating units. This position also manages key components of the annual campus budget process, governance of the campus budget system, regular monitoring of the financial status of campus units, oversight of student fee approval processes, and oversight of the faculty hiring approval process.Works directly with senior campus executives, and various campus units in situations that require sound financial and programmatic judgment and interpretation of University policy. Works regularly in cross-functional teams as a senior member and team leader. The incumbent is called upon to represent the Associate Vice Chancellor in meetings and communications involving the full range of operating budget policies and issues, management of centrally held resources and planning, and fee approval and implementation issues.
Apply By Date
11/29/2026 at 11:59pm
Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications - For full consideration, applicants are encouraged to upload license and/or certification if required of the position
- Bachelor's degree in management, economics, accounting, public policy or related field of study, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
- At least 7 years of experience in progressively responsible budget and financial management roles in a complex multi-fund source organization.
- Experience in aligning resources with goals in an environment of competitive demands for resources.
- Experience analyzing complex information and situations to identify problems and relevant factors, identify key issues in complex situations, evaluate options and formulate logical conclusions and recommend, initiate, and implement strategies for resolution.
- Experience with and understanding of short and long-range planning, and project management, including financial management/controls, budgeting, fiscal accountability and use of new technologies and resources.
- Experience using financial modeling concepts and tools with multiple assumptions and variables, and complex data to support organizational decisions.
- Demonstrated leadership experience and supervisory skills to recruit, select, train, support, assign, motivate and evaluate staff.
Preferred Qualifications
- A master's degree in Finance, Accounting, Business or Public Administration, Public Policy, Higher Education Policy, or a related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Experience in institutions of higher education and/or complex public sector organizations.
- Supervision experience and knowledge and skills to implement principles of performance management, multiculturalism and diversity, and coaching skills to enhance staff contributions to the organization's mission.
- Familiarity with UC financial and budget concepts, processes, policies and procedures. Knowledge and understanding of higher education policy issues at the university, state, and national levels
- Knowledge of UC Davis structure, systems, fee and rate policies, budget practices, authority and decision making infrastructure.
- Knowledge and understanding of the principles and practices of effective management.
Key Responsibilities
- 50% - Strategic Analysis/Budget Monitoring
- 20% - Annual Budget Process
- 15% - Student Fee Approval Processes and Oversight
- 15% - Special Projects, Communication and Engagement
Department Overview
Budget & Institutional Analysis (BIA) is a division of Finance, Operations and Administration that advises the Vice Chancellor for Finance, Operations, and Administration, the Provost and Executive Vice Chancellor; and other campus executives as to the efficient and effective management of the campus' resources. In addition, the division provides policy analyses on a wide range of issues, including enrollment, financial aid, budget allocation formulas and strategies, resource levels necessary to administer specific programs and activities in support of the mission, and institutional policies. Within BIA, the Budget Office provides decision support on the efficient and effective management of campus budget resources, manages the campus budget process and central resources, supports the system of record for instructional data, and is the office of record for student fees.
POSITION INFORMATION
Salary or Pay Range: $105,300.00/yr. - $208,500.00/yr.
- Salary Frequency: Annual
- Salary Grade: Grade 25
- UC Job Title: FINANCIAL ANL MGR 1
- UC Job Code: 000212
- Appointment Type: Staff: Career
- Percentage of Time: 100% Fixed
- Shift (Work Schedule): M-F, 8-5
- Location: Davis, CA
- Union Representation: 99 - Non-Represented (PPSM)
- Benefits Eligible: Yes
- This position is hybrid (mix of on-site and remote work)
Benefits
Outstanding benefits and perks are among the many rewards of working for the University of California. UC Davis offers a full range of benefits, resources and programs to help you bring your best self to work, as well as to help you and your family achieve your health, wellness, financial and career goals. Learn more about the benefits below and eligibility by visiting UCnet Benefits Page or Benefits Summary for UC Davis Health Employees or Benefits Summary for UC Davis Employees.
- High quality and low-cost medical plans to choose from to fit your family's needs
- UC pays for dental and vision coverage for you and your family
- Retirement plans for eligible employees including Pension and other Retirement Saving Plans
- Supplemental insurance offered including additional life, short/long term disability, pet insurance, legal coverage, accident, critical illness and hospital indemnity
- Pregnancy and Parental Leave, Family & Medical Leave, Adoption Assistance and Pay for Family Care and Bonding for eligible employees
- Lactation Support Program and Family Care discounts and resources
- Employee Well-being resources and programming to support thriving in all aspects of employee’s lives
- On-site Employee Assistance Program including access to free mental health services
- Generous amount of paid Holidays annually as outlined in the UC Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreements
- Paid Time Off/Vacation/Sick Time as outlined in the UC Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreements
- Continuing Education (CE) allowance and Staff Education Reimbursement Program for eligible employees
- Access to free professional development courses and learning opportunities for personal and professional growth
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Qualified Employer and Student Loan Debt Counseling Program for eligible employees
Physical Demands
- Standing - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Walking - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Sitting - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Lifting/Carrying 0-25 Lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Lifting/Carrying 26-50 lbs - Never 0 Hours
- Lifting/Carrying over 50 lbs - Never 0 Hours
- Pushing/Pulling 0-25 Lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Pushing/Pulling 26-50 lbs - Never 0 Hours
- Pushing/Pulling over 50 lbs - Never 0 Hours
- Bending/Stooping - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Squatting/Kneeling - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Twisting - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Climbing (e.g., stairs or ladders) - Never 0 Hours
- Reaching overhead - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Keyboard use/repetitive motion - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
Environmental Demands
- Chemicals, dust, gases, or fumes - Never 0 Hours
- Loud noise levels - Never 0 Hours
- Marked changes in humidity or temperature - Never 0 Hours
- Microwave/Radiation - Never 0 Hours
- Operating motor vehicles and/or equipment - Never 0 Hours
- Extreme Temperatures - Never 0 Hours
- Uneven Surfaces or Elevations - Never 0 Hours
Mental Demands
- Sustained attention and concentration - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Complex problem solving/reasoning - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Ability to organize & prioritize - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Communication skills - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Numerical skills - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Constant Interaction - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Customer/Patient Contact - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Multiple Concurrent Tasks - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
Work Environment
UC Davis is a smoke and tobacco free campus effective January 1, 2014. Smoking, the use of smokeless tobacco products, and the use of unregulated nicotine products (e-cigarettes) will be strictly prohibited on any UC Davis owned or leased property, indoors and outdoors, including parking lots and residential space.
Employee is personally responsible for following health and safety guidelines/instructions. Work flexible schedule. Restricted vacation during peak workload periods.
Special Requirements – Please contact your recruiter with questions regarding which activities apply by position
- This is a critical position, as defined by UC Policy and local procedures, and as such, employment is contingent upon clearing a criminal background check(s) and may include drug screening, medical evaluation clearance and functional capacity assessment
Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts a conditional offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; received notice of any allegations or are currently the subject of any administrative or disciplinary proceedings involving misconduct; have left a position after receiving notice of allegations or while under investigation in an administrative or disciplinary proceeding involving misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of misconduct with a previous employer.
A Culture of Opportunity and Belonging
At UC Davis, we’re committed to solving life’s most urgent challenges and building a healthier, more resilient world. We believe in growing through every challenge, continually striving to improve, and welcoming new perspectives that strengthen our community. We recognize that a vibrant and innovative organization values both individual strengths and shared purpose. The best ideas often emerge when people with different experiences come together.
As you consider joining UC Davis, we invite you to explore our Principles of Community, our Clinical Strategic Plan and strategic vision for research and education. We believe you belong here. The University of California, Davis is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age or protected veteran status.
To view the University of California’s Anti-Discrimination Policy, please visit: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/1001004/Anti-Discrimination
Because we want you to feel seen and valued, our recruitment process at UC Davis supports openness and authenticity. Research shows that some individuals hesitate to apply unless they meet every qualification. You may be an excellent fit for this role-or the next one. We encourage you to apply even if your experience doesn't match every listed requirement. #YouBelongHere
To learn more about our background check program, please visit: https://hr.ucdavis.edu/departments/recruitment/ucd/selection/background-checks
See All 49 Project Program Manager Jobs in California
Find roles in California that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Project Program Manager JobsProject Program Manager Jobs by City in California
Where California roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Project Program Manager Job Market in California
A snapshot from current California openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
Top Industries Hiring
- Education
- Manufacturing
- Technology & Software
- Electronics & Hardware
What California Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in project program manager jobs across California.
- PMP or PgMP certification through PMI strongly preferred or required by most California employers
- Bachelor's degree in business, engineering, computer science, or a related field
- Five or more years managing complex, cross-functional programs or projects end to end
- Experience with Agile, Scrum, or SAFe frameworks and project management tools like Jira or Smartsheet
- Demonstrated ability to manage program budgets, timelines, and executive stakeholder communications
- Experience in a California-relevant industry such as technology, defense, healthcare, or public infrastructure
Project Program Manager Jobs in California: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a project program manager in California?
California does not require a state-issued license to work as a project program manager, so the path runs through education and professional certification. Most California employers expect a bachelor's degree in business, engineering, or a technical field paired with a Project Management Professional credential from the Project Management Institute. Candidates who build experience in coordinator or associate project manager roles at California technology, defense, or healthcare companies typically advance into program management within a few years.
How much do project program managers make in California?
Project program managers in California earn a median of about $120,910 a year, based on May 2025 Bureau of Labor Statistics wage data, ranging from around $69,180 for the lowest 10% to over $188,560 for the top 10%. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and employer.
Which companies hire project program managers in California?
Employers hiring project program managers in California right now include General Atomics, Lockheed Martin, and Applied Materials, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. California's concentration of technology headquarters, defense contractors, and large health systems makes it one of the most consistent states for program management hiring across industries and experience levels.
Which California cities have the most project program manager jobs?
Poway, San Diego, and Sunnyvale have the most project program manager openings in California. The Bay Area's density of technology headquarters and enterprise software companies drives the highest volume, while Los Angeles draws openings from entertainment, aerospace, and defense firms, and San Diego's strong biotech and military presence generates consistent demand for program managers with technical and government contracting backgrounds.
Are there remote project program manager jobs in California?
Yes, and more than most fields. About 61% of project program manager openings tied to California are remote or hybrid as of November 2026, reflecting how much of the work centers on coordination, reporting, and communication rather than physical presence. The most fully remote roles tend to be in technical program management and IT portfolio functions at California-based technology companies.
How can I get hired as a project program manager in California with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is moving into a project coordinator or associate project manager role, which many large California technology and healthcare employers post as stepping stones into full program management. Companies like Kaiser Permanente, Salesforce, and major Bay Area tech firms run rotational associate programs and internal development tracks designed for candidates without prior program management titles. Completing a Google Project Management Certificate or earning a Certified Associate in Project Management credential through the Project Management Institute gives early-career candidates a concrete credential that California hiring managers recognize.
Where can I find and apply to project program manager jobs in California?
You can find and apply to project program manager jobs in California on Migrate Mate, which lists current openings from California employers. Search the listings to find roles that match your experience and location, then apply directly to the ones that fit.
See All 49 Project Program Manager Jobs in California
Find roles in California that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Project Program Manager Jobs