Program Manager

Office Location: 2231 Crystal Drive. Arlington, VA 22202

In-Office Expectations: Onsite 4 days/week, Optional Remote 1 day/week

Additional Travel: Limited
 

Position Overview
 

Starburst is seeking a Program Manager to lead the execution of accelerator programs supporting emerging technology startups while also playing a key role in marketing and event execution. This role will be approximately 60% focused on accelerator program operations and 40% on marketing and events, ensuring the seamless execution of both areas.
 

The ideal candidate is an organized and proactive program manager with experience supporting early-stage technology startups, planning and managing events, and coordinating with multiple stakeholders. They should also have a strong background in marketing and branding, with the ability to contribute to content development, event promotion, and broader ecosystem engagement. An interest in aerospace, defense, and dual-use technologies is important, as this role will support startups developing innovations for both commercial and national security applications.
 

This position will work closely with the rest of the Starburst US team, taking on tactical execution responsibilities across program operations, events, and marketing initiatives to support Starburst’s accelerator programs and ecosystem-building efforts.

Key Responsibilities

Accelerator Program Management (60%)
 

● Program Execution: Lead the day-to-day execution of an accelerator program, ensuring smooth operations, timely execution of activities, and alignment with program objectives. Track program milestones, maintain detailed records, and coordinate across teams for seamless execution.

● Cross-Program Collaboration: Work alongside other program managers to support additional accelerator initiatives, share best practices, and contribute to overall program success.

● Startup Scouting & Selection: Assist in identifying, sourcing, and evaluating promising early-stage technology startups for participation in accelerator programs.

● Startup Support & Stakeholder Engagement: Serve as the primary point of contact for startups, providing operational and logistical support while building relationships with investors, mentors, corporate sponsors, and government partners.

● Ecosystem & Community Engagement: Develop and maintain relationships with industry stakeholders, mentors, and investors to strengthen the program’s impact and support startup growth.

● Continuous Improvement: Gather feedback, analyze program effectiveness, and collaborate with the Program Director to refine processes and enhance future cohorts.

Marketing & Events Execution (40%)

● Event Planning & Execution: Organize and manage key program and industry events, including workshops, lectures, kickoff events, demo days, networking sessions, and partner-led activities.

● Marketing & Branding Support: Contribute to marketing efforts, including content development, event promotion, social media strategy, and engagement with the startup ecosystem.

● Public Relations & Outreach: Support outreach efforts to investors, partners, and ecosystem players through event execution, thought leadership content, and brand-building initiatives.
 

Qualifications & Experience

● 1-4 years of experience in program management, ideally within startup accelerators, incubators, or innovation-focused initiatives.

● Hands-on experience planning and executing events, including workshops, industry networking events, and demo days.

● Experience in marketing and branding, including content creation, event promotion, and ecosystem engagement.

● Strong stakeholder management skills, with experience coordinating across startups, investors, corporate partners, and/or government organizations.

● Proficiency in project management tools and/or CRM platforms is preferred.

● Experience in aerospace & defense (A&D) or dual-use technology sectors is a plus but not required.
 

Key Soft Skills for Success

To excel in this role, candidates should demonstrate:

● Leadership & Initiative – Ability to take ownership of programs and drive execution with minimal oversight.

● Stakeholder Management – Comfort engaging with diverse groups, from early-stage founders to industry executives.

● Adaptability & Problem-Solving – Ability to thrive in a dynamic environment and quickly adjust to new challenges.

● Attention to Detail & Execution Focus – Strong ability to manage operational processes efficiently.

● Strategic Thinking – While the role is operational, a strategic mindset helps align programs with broader business objectives.
 

Why Join Starburst?

Starburst is the world’s leading aerospace and defense accelerator and innovation partner, working at the intersection of startups, industry leaders, investors, and government agencies. By joining our team, you’ll have the opportunity to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of emerging technology and supporting groundbreaking startups as they scale.

As Program Manager, you will:

● Drive Real Impact – Lead and execute accelerator programs that directly support the growth of cutting-edge technology startups.

● Expand Your Network – Work closely with top investors, corporate executives, and government stakeholders in the deep-tech and innovation ecosystem.

● Grow with a Fast-Paced Organization – Be part of a high-energy team driving Starburst’s expansion, particularly on the East Coast.

● Engage with Emerging Technologies – Gain exposure to next-generation advancements in aerospace, defense, and dual-use applications.

● Collaborate and Innovate – Work alongside a passionate team of program managers, marketing professionals, and industry leaders committed to fostering innovation.

If you thrive in a dynamic environment and are passionate about supporting startups, building ecosystems, and making an impact in deep-tech innovation, we’d love to hear from you!

Compensation

● Salary Range: $75,000 - $90,000 (based on experience).

Actual compensation will be determined at the time of hire and on the basis of years of experience, collection of professional competencies, and strength of relationships within the startup and innovation ecosystem.

Keywords: Program Manager, Deputy Program Manager, Startup Accelerator, Incubator Programs, Emerging Technology, Deep Tech, Innovation Ecosystem, Startup Growth, Venture Development, Strategic Partnerships, Aerospace & Defense, Dual-Use Technology, Government Innovation, Public-Private Partnerships, Early-Stage Startups, Accelerator Program Operations, Event Planning, Event Execution, Industry Networking, Demo Days, Startup Scouting, Stakeholder Engagement, Investor Relations, Corporate Partnerships, Business Development, Marketing Strategy, Branding, Content Creation, Event Promotion, Social Media Strategy, Thought Leadership, Community Engagement, Ecosystem Building, CRM Tools, Project Management, Innovation-Driven Environment, Startup Mentorship, Technology Commercialization, Entrepreneurial Support.