Engineering Project Manager

Position OverviewWe are seeking an early‑career Engineering Project Manager to join the Fluid Dynamics and Acoustics Office (FDAO) at the Applied Research Laboratory at Penn State. The role is ideal for a candidate with approximately 1–3 years of current project management experience who is ready to take on increased responsibility and grow within a mission‑driven environment. The selected candidate will support research programs and laboratory operations while working alongside a collaborative team of engineers and senior project managers.ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply.ResponsibilitiesDirectly support project financial management, including proposals, budgets, forecasts, and reportingCreate and monitor work breakdown structures and expensesIdentify, address, and elevate roadblocksBuild schedules, communicate with the project team, and facilitate meetings and internal processesGather, ship, and archive research data and deliverablesExecute and track lab material and software purchases by maintaining records, monitoring order status, and coordinating with vendorsBuild and maintain networks across the office, the lab, and Penn StateAdditional Responsibilities for Higher‑Level PositionsIndependently manage project financials for efforts with increased scope or complexityProactively assess risks and roadblocks, recommend mitigation strategies, and drive resolution in coordination with the Principal Investigator and stakeholdersFacilitate cross‑functional coordination, ensuring alignment across engineering and business service teamsResolve purchasing issues and ensure material ETAs align with project schedulesContribute to process improvement efforts by refining templates and identifying opportunities to streamline project management processes within the teamRequired Skills and Experience1+ years of experience contributing to project management activities in an engineering, manufacturing, or research environmentStrong organizational and communication skills, with the ability to manage multiple prioritiesDemonstrated initiative and willingness to take on increasing responsibilityA customer‑focused mindsetProficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and MS Project or similar tools)Preferred Skills and ExperienceCurrent eligibility for access to classified information at the Secret level or higher and may be subject to a government background investigation to upgrade clearance eligibility, if requiredPart fabrication processesKnowledge of materials used in a research lab and familiarity with engineering softwarePSUBuy (or similar systems)Active project management certification or training (e.g., CAPM, PMP)Location and TravelYour working location may be fully on‑site or hybrid (on‑site/work from home) near State College, PA. Questions related to flexible work arrangements should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process. This position will require minimal periodic travel to ARL and sponsor locations in support of managing projects and meetings.Minimum Education and ExperienceMinimum qualifications differ by level. For Engineering Project Manager – Advanced Professional, a bachelor's degree and 3+ years of relevant experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience is required. For Engineering Project Manager – Intermediate Professional, a bachelor's degree and 1+ year of relevant experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience is required. No certifications are required for either level.Salary and BenefitsThe salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is 76,700.00 – 129,500.00. The proposed salary range may be impacted by geographic differential.Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full‑time employees designed to support both personal and professional well‑being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off, including holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children.Background Checks and ClearancesEmployment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. All positions at ARL require candidates to possess the ability to obtain a government security clearance; you must be a U.S. citizen to apply. Employment with the ARL will require successful completion of a pre‑employment drug screen.EEO StatementPenn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.#J-18808-Ljbffr