Program Manager

The University of Arizona Kyl Institute for National Security; Tucson (AZ); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Paid time off and holidays

Professional development opportunities

Tuition reduction

Job summary

A nonprofit defense organization in Tucson is seeking a Program Manager to support mission-driven programs. The ideal candidate will coordinate activities, manage risks, and ensure program success in a fast-paced environment. Responsibilities include planning, budget tracking, and collaborating with various teams. Candidates should have a relevant bachelor’s degree and 5+ years of program management experience, preferably in regulated environments. Strong organizational and communication skills are essential. Hybrid work model with competitive benefits offered.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in project or program management, preferably in a complex or regulated environment.
• Solid understanding of program management principles, tools, and methodologies.
• Experience in a nonprofit, research, or mission driven organization is a plus.
• Experience working across cross-functional teams and building stakeholder relationships.
• Knowledge of FAR, DFARS, ITAR, or related compliance frameworks is a plus.
• PMI/ PMP certification preferred.

Responsibilities

• Support the planning, coordination, and execution of program activities across multiple teams.
• Track program performance and prepare status reports for leadership.
• Assist with budget tracking, cost analysis, and resource planning.
• Coordinate meetings, manage action items, and facilitate communication across stakeholders.
• Identify risks and issues and support mitigation strategies.
• Assist with budget tracking, cost analysis, and resource planning for program activities.
• Prepare and maintain program documentation including project plans, reports, and presentations.
• Ensure activities align with policies, contractual requirements, and compliance standards including FAR and DFARS where applicable.
• Collaborate with engineering, operations, finance, and other teams to drive program success.
• Support subcontractor coordination and program tracking when applicable.
• Contribute to process improvements to enhance program efficiency and effectiveness.

Skills

Organizational skills

Time management

Analytical thinking

Strong communication

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s degree in business, engineering, program management, or a related field

Tools

Project Management Professional (PMP) certification

Job description

Clearance Required: Current or eligible for Department of War security clearance

We are seeking a Program Manager to support the planning, execution, and delivery of mission driven programs within a nonprofit organization operating in a defense and national security environment. This role plays a key part in ensuring programs are delivered on time, within scope, and aligned with contractual and organizational requirements.

The Program Manager will work cross functionally with internal teams and external stakeholders to coordinate activities, track performance, manage risks, and support leadership with program execution and reporting. This position is ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, enjoys working across teams, and brings strong organizational and problem-solving skills.

What You’ll Do

• Support the planning, coordination, and execution of program activities across multiple teams and functional areas.
• Develop and maintain program schedules, milestones, and deliverables to ensure successful execution.
• Track program performance and prepare status reports for leadership and stakeholders.
• Coordinate meetings, manage action items, and facilitate communication across program stakeholders.
• Identify risks and issues and support development of mitigation strategies.
• Assist with budget tracking, cost analysis, and resource planning for program activities.
• Prepare and maintain program documentation including project plans, reports, and presentations.
• Ensure program activities align with organizational policies, contractual requirements, and compliance standards including FAR and DFARS where applicable.
• Collaborate with engineering, operations, finance, and other teams to drive program success.
• Support subcontractor coordination and program tracking when applicable.
• Contribute to process improvements to enhance program efficiency and effectiveness.

What We’re Looking For

• Bachelor’s degree in business, engineering, program management, or a related field.
• Five or more years of experience in project or program management, preferably in a complex or regulated environment.
• Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Experience working across cross functional teams and building strong stakeholder relationships.
• Solid understanding of program management principles, tools, and methodologies.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Analytical thinker with the ability to identify issues and implement solutions.
• Experience in a nonprofit, research, or mission driven organization is a plus.
• Familiarity with defense, national security, or government contracting environments is preferred.
• Knowledge of FAR, DFARS, ITAR, or related compliance frameworks is a plus.
• Project Management Professional (PMP) certification preferred.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government security clearance if required.
• Ability to acquire and maintain a Department of War security clearance.

Compensation & Benefits Include:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance; life and disability coverage; retirement plan.
• Paid time off and holidays.
• Professional development and opportunities to earn IT/security certifications.
• Qualified tuition reduction.

Details:

• Location: Hybrid in Tucson (85713), AZ.
• Schedule: Full-time, Monday–Friday, 8:00–5:00 with occasional adjustments to business needs.

Equal Opportunity Employer:

Kyl Institute for National Security is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. This position requires U.S. citizenship and the ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance.