MnSCU Academic Professional 4 - Aerospace Program Manager

Minnesota State Colleges and Universities•Rosemount, MN

4d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Aerospace Program Manager provides statewide coordination for implementation of the NASA-federally funded Minnesota Aerospace Skilled Technical Workforce Hub. The position manages project operations, coordinates partnerships among Minnesota State colleges, industry, NASA, and government agencies, facilitates curriculum development and workforce initiatives, and ensures successful completion of grant objectives, deliverables, and reporting requirements. The role advances aerospace technician education and workforce readiness across Minnesota while establishing sustainable partnerships intended to continue beyond the grant period. This is a grant-funded position with an anticipated end date of August 14, 2028. Funding beyond the currently approved grant period depends on NASA approval and the availability of additional grant funds. The role is based at Dakota County Technical College in Rosemount, Minnesota, and may be eligible for partial telework depending on departmental needs. Work is generally Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with hours potentially varying according to business and project needs. The position requires travel within Minnesota to visit employers, attend industry meetings, and participate in workforce events.

Requirements

Two years of progressively responsible experience managing complex projects, grants, or workforce development initiatives.
Three years of experience managing federally funded grants, such as NASA, NSF, DoD, or DOT grants.
Experience with curriculum development or workforce pathway design.
Experience collaborating with multiple stakeholders across education, industry, and government.
Demonstrated project management and organizational skills.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to travel within Minnesota for employer visits, industry meetings, and workforce events.
Ability to work at a computer for extended periods.
Ability to present and facilitate stakeholder meetings.
Employees driving on college or university business in a rental or state vehicle must meet Minnesota State vehicle-use criteria and consent to a Motor Vehicle Records check.
A complete application must include a current resume listing related work experience, employment dates by month and year, and average hours worked per week.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree in education, workforce development, engineering, aviation, aerospace, business, public administration, or a related field.
Experience in aerospace, aviation, manufacturing, transportation, or advanced technology industries.
Knowledge of community colleges, technical education, workforce development, or higher education systems.
Experience facilitating advisory committees or statewide collaborative initiatives.
Familiarity with aerospace technician education, FAA programs, or advanced manufacturing.
Experience with Career and Technical Education programs.

Responsibilities

Coordinate statewide implementation of the NASA-funded Minnesota Aerospace Skilled Technical Workforce Hub.
Manage project operations and grant activities.
Coordinate partnerships among Minnesota State colleges, industry, NASA, and government agencies.
Facilitate curriculum development and workforce initiatives.
Ensure completion of grant objectives, deliverables, and reporting requirements.
Advance aerospace technician education and workforce readiness across Minnesota.
Establish sustainable partnerships that can continue beyond the grant period.
Travel within Minnesota to visit employers, attend industry meetings, and participate in workforce events.
Present and facilitate meetings with stakeholders.

Benefits

Low-cost medical and dental insurance with affordable deductibles.
Employer-paid life insurance.
Short- and long-term disability coverage.
Pre-tax healthcare and dependent care accounts with a rollover option.
Confidential Employee Assistance Program for mental health, legal, and financial counseling.
12 paid holidays.
Vacation and sick time.
Six weeks of paid parental leave.
Pension plan.
457(b) and 403(b) retirement accounts and various investment options.
Professional development.
Tuition waivers for employees and their dependents. Specific eligibility and coverage may vary by position type, employee classification, and applicable agreements.