Lab Project Operations Lead: Grants, Budgets & Compliance

Wichita State University; Wichita (KS); On-site; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Wichita State University’s NIAR is seeking a detail-driven Project Operations Manager to oversee laboratory projects, grants, and contract work. The role focuses on planning, execution, financial oversight, and ensuring compliance with sponsor expectations.

The position requires strong project management experience, financial stewardship, and the ability to navigate complex workflows to support NIAR’s mission and research programs.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Seven (7) years of related project management experience; Every 30 hours of related college coursework can be substituted for one year (max four).

Responsibilities

• Provides operational oversight for laboratory projects, including grant-funded and contract work.
• Manages project budgets, funding tracking, and burn rates.
• Ensures work aligns with approved scopes of work and sponsor requirements.
• Coordinates with internal/external partners to ensure timely invoicing and financial reporting.
• Monitors program performance, data collection, and key metrics.
• Maintains compliance with policies, laws, and sponsor guidelines.
• Maintains records and produces timely reports for stakeholders.

Skills

Project management

Budgeting

Compliance

Data tracking

Organization

Risk management

Communication

PM tools

Stakeholder coordination

Scope alignment

Office/administrative

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

PM tracking tools

Job description

Wichita State University’s NIAR is seeking a detail-driven Project Operations Manager to oversee laboratory projects, grants, and contract work. The role focuses on planning, execution, financial oversight, and ensuring compliance with sponsor expectations.

The position requires strong project management experience, financial stewardship, and the ability to navigate complex workflows to support NIAR’s mission and research programs.