Project Manager

University of California, Irvine; Irvine (CA); On-site; USD 88,000 - 106,400; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Retirement savings plan

Paid time off

Employee discounts

Job summary

University of California, Irvine seeks a driven Project Manager to run the operations of a dispersed research center focused on open scientific computing and data science infrastructure. You will coordinate with the PI, researchers and partners to ensure smooth execution of activities and strategic goals.

The role requires strong communication, budgeting, HR and financial acumen, plus the ability to handle competing priorities in a high‑energy environment.

Qualifications

• Academic background and experience in a selected area of research preferred.
• Thorough knowledge of administrative, budgetary, human resources, and financial principles and practices.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Strong ability to think creatively and independently on concepts requiring advanced analytical skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work with diverse groups to achieve results.
• Strong ability to work collaboratively with internal and external peers and managers.
• Solid fundraising experience.
• Advanced degree in a related area and/or equivalent experience/training.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience.

Responsibilities

• Lead the operations of a fast‑paced, geographically dispersed research center.
• Coordinate with Principal Investigator, research partners, stakeholders and technical staff to ensure seamless execution of activities.
• Engage with diverse teams across academic institutions and research partners.
• Manage logistics and shift focus quickly to meet deadlines.

Skills

Project management

Cross-functional collaboration

Strategic planning

Budgeting and HR

Communication

Fundraising

Analytical thinking

Prioritization

Adaptability

Team leadership

Education

Advanced degree in related area

Minimum 5 years experience

Tools

None specified

Job description

Your Role on the Team

We are seeking a driven, resourceful, and highly adaptable Project Manager (PM) to lead the operations of a fast‑paced, geographically dispersed research center dedicated to advancing open scientific computing and data science infrastructure. The ideal candidate stays on top of multiple priorities, keeps things moving smoothly, and can wear many hats — from managing logistics to engaging with diverse teams across academic institutions and research partners. This role requires an action‑oriented individual who thrives in a high‑energy, deadline‑driven environment and can manage competing priorities and shift focus quickly.

The PM will be the operational backbone of the Center, working closely with the Principal Investigator, research partners, stakeholders, and technical staff to ensure seamless execution of the Center’s activities and strategic goals. The role is supported by a project coordinator.

What It Takes to be Successful

Required

• Academic background and experience in a selected area of research preferred.
• Thorough knowledge of administrative, budgetary, human resources, and financial principles and practices.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Strong ability to think creatively and independently on concepts requiring advanced analytical skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work with diverse groups to achieve results.
• Strong ability to work collaboratively with internal and external peers and managers.
• Solid fundraising experience.
• Advanced degree in a related area and/or equivalent experience/training.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience.

Preferred

• Doctorate in a related area and/or equivalent experience/training preferred.

Total Rewards

In addition to the salary range of $88,000 to $106,400 per year, we offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical insurance, sick and vacation time, retirement savings plans, and various discounts and perks. For more information about our compensation practices and benefits, please visit the appropriate resources.

Conditions of Employment

As part of our commitment to a safe and healthy environment, all applicants who accept an offer must comply with the following conditions:

• Background Check and Live Scan
• Employment Misconduct disclosure
• Legal right to work in the United States
• Vaccination policies
• Smoking and Tobacco policy
• Drug free environment
• California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act
• E‑Verify
• Pre‑Placement Health Evaluation

Additional policies can be reviewed at https://hr.uci.edu/new-hire/conditions-of-employment.php.

Closing Statement

The University of California 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, disability, age, protected veteran status, or any other protected category covered by the UC Anti‑Discrimination Policy.

We are committed to attracting and retaining a diverse workforce and to maintaining inclusive, equitable, and welcoming work and learning environments.

UCI provides reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities upon request. For more information, please contact Human Resources at (949) 824‑0500 or [e-mail].

Consideration for Work Authorization Sponsorship

Must be able to provide proof of work authorization.