KRI Research Program Manager Level I or II, DoD Research Programs

Northeastern University; Arlington (VA); On-site; USD 86,000 - 188,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a KRI Research Program Manager to oversee critical Department of Defense research and development initiatives. This full-time role, based in Arlington or Burlington, MA, requires strong project management skills and the ability to navigate complex contracts. The ideal candidate will have a solid background in DoD acquisitions and a commitment to excellence in managing diverse programs. With a focus on collaboration and communication, this position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to impactful projects while working alongside talented professionals in a dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• 3-5 years relevant experience for Level I; 10+ years for Level II.
• Proven experience managing research and development programs.

Responsibilities

• Oversee DoD funded research & development programs.
• Manage multiple DoD contracts and track costs and schedules.

Skills

DoD acquisitions

contract management

financial management

project management

communication skills

organizational skills

risk management

Education

Bachelor's degree

Graduate degree in technical field

Tools

MS Project

Microsoft Office

Job description

KRI Research Program Manager Level I or II, DoD Research Programs

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About The Opportunity

The KRI Research Program Manager, Level I or II, based in Burlington, MA or Arlington, VA, oversees Department of Defense (DoD) funded research & development programs. Reporting to the KRI Program Management Office Director, this role involves managing multiple DoD contracts, overseeing a dispersed portfolio including tracking costs, schedules, performance, and risks, organizing meetings, workshops, seminars, and handling post-award requirements such as proposals and submissions. The level of hire depends on the candidate's education and experience.

This fast-paced position requires interaction with internal researchers, staff, subcontractors, and funding agencies. Candidates should have strong experience with DoD acquisitions, contracting, financial and project management, excellent organizational and communication skills, and a customer-focused approach.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required; graduate degree preferred in a technical field.
• 3-5 years relevant experience for Level I; 10+ years for Level II.
• Proven experience managing research and development programs of varying complexity.
• Experience with different contract types (CA, IDIQ, CPFF, FFP).
• Risk management experience.
• Technical environment familiarity, DoD security clearance ability, and effective interfacing skills.
• Basic knowledge of ITAR, EAR, contracts, and legal documents.
• Proficiency with Project Management tools, MS Project, and Microsoft Office.
• Understanding of systems engineering principles and DoD architecture frameworks.
• Willingness to travel up to 50%.

Additional Qualifications

• Curiosity, continuous learning, strong communication, leadership, and integrity.
• Experience with US DoD, DoE, or NASA programs preferred.
• Active DoD Security Clearance and PMI certification are a plus.
• Ability to work independently and lead teams in a dynamic environment.

Physical Demands & ITAR Compliance

Office environment with occasional laboratory or field work; travel required. Compliance with ITAR/EAR regulations is mandatory, requiring verification of U.S. person status.

Salary Range

Level I: $86,490 - $122,163; Level II: $129,010 - $187,060.

Position Details

Full-time research role, located in Boston or Arlington, with benefits and a comprehensive support package.