Program/Project Manager I

Montgomery County Maryland; Manhattan (KS); Hybrid; USD 54,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Kansas State University is seeking a Program/Project Manager to lead planning, coordination, and implementation of a portfolio of research-focused programs and events within OVPR. You will collaborate with colleges, centers, and external partners to promote research excellence and visibility.

The role manages projects end-to-end, guides stakeholder groups, and develops timelines, budgets, and evaluation plans. Evening/weekend work and sponsorship eligibility may apply as described in the posting.

Qualifications

• Seven years of relevant experience in project management, program coordination, event management, higher education, research administration, business administration, corporate engagement, or a related field.
• Valid Drivers License.

Responsibilities

• Lead planning, coordination, and implementation of a portfolio of research-focused programs and events.
• Coordinate resources, manage budgets, convene stakeholders, and oversee event logistics.
• Support executive-level engagements and assess outcomes.
• Develop project plans, timelines, and processes to improve OVPR programming.

Skills

Project management

Event management

Stakeholder coordination

Budget management

Research administration

Higher education

Program development

Education

Business Administration

Communications

Public Relations

Hospitality Management

Event Planning

Marketing

Higher Education Administration

Job description

About This Role

The Program/Project Manager is responsible for leading the planning, coordination, and implementation of a comprehensive portfolio of research-focused programs, events, and initiatives that advance the strategic priorities of the Office of the Vice President for Research (OVPR). Reporting to the Vice President for Research, this position serves as a project leader and strategic partner in the development and execution of initiatives that promote research excellence, strengthen institutional and external relationships, and enhance the visibility and impact of the university’s research enterprise.
The position manages projects from concept through implementation and evaluation, coordinating activities across colleges, research centers and institutes, administration offices, university leadership, faculty, staff, corporate partners, government agencies, community organizations, and external vendors. Responsibilities include developing project plans and timelines, coordinating resources, managing budgets, convening and facilitating stakeholder groups, overseeing event and program logistics, supporting executive-level engagements, and assessing outcomes.
The position will provide leadership for a portfolio of OVPR events and programs, including research conferences, university-wide research initiatives, corporate engagement activities, executive visits, faculty and research recognition programs, and other strategic initiatives. The Program/Project Manager will exercise independent judgment in prioritizing activities, resolving issues, developing processes, and identifying opportunities to improve OVPR programming and engagement.

About Us

The Office of the Vice President for Research (OVPR) provides leadership and support for Kansas State University's research enterprise. Supporting more than $250 million in annual research expenditures, OVPR oversees research development, sponsored programs administration, research compliance, research infrastructure, core facilities, and innovation. Working with faculty, colleges, and campus partners, OVPR develops policies, processes, and services that support research and scholarship across the university in furtherance of Kansas State's mission as a next-generation land-grant institution.

Worksite Description

This position is On-site.

What You'll Need to Succeed

Minimum Qualifications:

• High school diploma (or equivalent)
• Seven years of relevant experience in project management, program coordination, event management, higher education, research administration, business administration, corporate engagement, or a related field. Requirements may be met through a combination of work experience and education.
• Valid Drivers License

Preferred Qualifications:

• Demonstrated experience managing multiple projects, programs, or initiatives simultaneously.
• Demonstrated ability to exercise independent judgment and discretion in planning, prioritizing, and executing projects.
• Bachelor's or master’s degree in Business Administration, Communications, Public Relations, Hospitality Management, Event Planning, Marketing, Higher Education Administration, or a related field.
• Experience working in higher education, research administration, economic development, nonprofit organizations, or corporate engagement.
• Experience leading complex projects involving multiple internal and external stakeholders.
• Experience managing project or program budgets.
• Experience planning and executing conferences, large-scale events, executive-level meetings, or strategic engagement initiatives.
• Experience developing project plans, reports, presentations, communications, and other materials for senior leadership or external stakeholders.
• Experience supervising or providing direction to staff, student employees, or project teams.
• Experience evaluating programs, measuring outcomes, and using data or stakeholder feedback to improve programs and initiatives.
• Knowledge of university research operations, research administration, or the research enterprise.

Additional Role Information:

• Position will require working some evenings and weekends.

Sponsorship eligibility:

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship

How to Apply

Please submit the following documents:

• Cover letter
• Resume
• Three professional references with contact information

Application Window

Applications close on: October 16, 2026

Anticipated Hiring Pay Range

$53,581-$70,000