Program Manager

Idaho National Laboratory • Idaho Falls, ID

4d • $114,360 - $281,196 • Onsite

About The Position

Idaho National Laboratory is hiring a Senior Program Manager for its Business Management team, supporting the PMO Manager – R&D & Operations Projects. The position is based at the EROB facility in Idaho Falls and follows a 9x80 schedule, with every other Friday off. The role provides strategic leadership for complex, multi-project programs, including governance, delivery integration, stakeholder relationships, financial management, risk oversight, benefit realization, team leadership, and compliance.

The Program Manager defines program vision and success criteria in alignment with INL priorities; establishes governance and escalation frameworks; coordinates project dependencies, resources, milestones, and trade-offs; and serves as the primary interface with executive-level external stakeholders. The position also leads program-level budget and performance planning, manages strategic risks and opportunities, oversees benefits and organizational change, and directs Project Managers and functional leads. Program execution must comply with applicable federal regulations, INL procedures, and quality standards.

This is a multi-level posting. Appointment at Level 4 or Level 5 depends on the depth and breadth of the candidate’s experience and skills. The stated pay ranges are $114,360–$234,336 for Level 4 and $137,076–$281,196 for Level 5. Compensation decisions consider education, relevant experience, and other credentials. The position may require the ability to obtain security clearance, potentially including U.S. citizenship for Q and SCI clearances, depending on assignment and location.

The work takes place in an office and field/laboratory environment. Duties may involve standing, walking, sitting, stooping, kneeling, bending, keyboarding, handling materials and tools, operating job-related equipment, and driving. Occasional lifting or moving of up to 25 pounds without assistance is required. Reasonable accommodation may be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Requirements

• Level 4: Bachelor’s degree in Business, Engineering, Project Management, or a related field from an accredited institution and 9 years of relevant experience; or a master’s degree and 6 years; or a Ph.D. and 4 years of similar relevant experience.
• Level 5: Bachelor’s degree in Business, Engineering, Project Management, or a related field from an accredited institution and 14 years of relevant experience; or a master’s degree and 8 years; or a Ph.D. and 6 years of similar relevant experience.
• Experience functioning as a lead or project manager commensurate with the position level.
• Engineering/science executive management skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Depending on work assignment and location, ability to obtain security clearance, which may require U.S. citizenship for Q and SCI clearance levels.
• Demonstrated experience managing complex, multi-project programs with cross-functional teams.
• Proven ability to manage program budgets, schedules, and performance metrics.

Nice To Haves

• Advanced degree.
• Project Management Professional (PMP) certificate with demonstrated program-level experience.
• Program Management Professional (PgMP®) certification or equivalent, or ability to obtain it within a specified timeframe.

Responsibilities

• Define and communicate program vision, objectives, and success criteria aligned with INL’s mission and strategic priorities.
• Establish program governance structures, decision-making frameworks, and escalation protocols.
• Work with performance management, continuous improvement, and PEMP.
• Manage interdependencies among projects within and outside the program; coordinate resources, milestone sequencing, and integration points, and make trade-off decisions.
• Serve as the primary interface between INL and executive-level external stakeholders, including DOE program offices, DOD sponsors, and industry partners; lead business reviews, planning sessions, and contract negotiations.
• Manage stakeholder expectations and align program deliverables with sponsor requirements and available funding.
• Develop and manage multi-year program budgets across funding sources, work breakdown structures, and cost pools; direct financial planning cycles, approve baseline changes, and ensure compliance with federal cost accounting standards.
• Oversee program-level reporting.
• Identify, assess, and manage strategic and institutional risks and opportunities; develop mitigation strategies and escalate critical issues with recommended actions.
• Define and track measurable program benefits and lead organizational change management efforts needed to achieve program objectives.
• Provide leadership and direction to Project Managers and functional leads; foster collaboration, resolve conflicts, build cross-functional teams, and mentor emerging program and project management talent.
• Ensure program execution complies with applicable federal regulations, INL procedures, and quality standards; coordinate program-level audits, assessments, and continuous improvement activities.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• 401(k) with a 4.2% employer contribution and up to 4.8% match for regular positions; self-contribute access for postdoctoral positions
• Paid time off (personal leave)
• Employee Education Program, including tuition assistance for eligible positions
• Comprehensive relocation package

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior