Program Administrative Manager

Virginia Tech • Blacksburg, VA

6d • $55,000 - $65,000 • Onsite

About The Position

The Program Administrative Manager in the College of Engineering Office of Research and Innovation provides comprehensive project management support to multiple research teams participating in large transdisciplinary research grants/initiatives. This role works closely with Principal Investigators and interdisciplinary teams to ensure effective execution of research projects, with the goal of securing ongoing, large-scale external funding ($2M+) to expand the projects. Reporting to the Assistant Director of Research and Innovation, the Program Administrative Manager oversees administrative project planning and execution to maintain project scope, timelines, and compliance with university and federal regulations. This role requires exceptional organizational skills, a proactive mindset, the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously, and strong interpersonal and communication skills.

Requirements

• Demonstrated project management experience, preferably in academic or research settings
• Proven experience with pre-award and/or post-award grant administration
• Experience providing administrative support to research teams
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritize competing demands to meet deadlines
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to draft high-quality materials
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and virtual collaboration tools (e.g., Zoom)
• Exceptional attention to detail and analytical thinking
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within team environments
• Motivated self-starter with a creative and solutions-oriented mindset

Responsibilities

• Develop work plans for identified research teams to accomplish program goals and objectives.
• Monitor project progress across multiple teams and implement effective strategies to maintain project momentum.
• Facilitate effective communication among project teams, principal investigators, and administrative staff to ensure project stays on track and meet key milestones.
• Serve as liaison between research groups and the Office of Sponsored Programs.
• Facilitate proposal development through assisting with proposal writing and by coordinating with pre-award and post-award offices and department research administrators to meet submission requirements.
• Lead the creation of reports, presentations, summaries, and promotional materials for the Principal Investigator and project team.
• Assist identified research teams in identifying and pursuing large-scale external funding opportunities.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed