Research Projects Program Manager I

University of Louisville

9d•Onsite

About The Position

The University of Louisville is hiring a Research Projects Program Manager. The position, with a specialty in operational technology testing and validation, will serve as the overall event director, working to plan, coordinate, and execute testing and validation experiences in support of the Department of War (DoW). This role is responsible for developing event scenarios, assigning team roles, monitoring progress, and ensuring successful delivery of all program objectives. This is a grant funded position with funding through August 15, 2027. Continued employment is contingent upon the availability of funds. This position supports defense‑related projects funded by a U.S. Department of Defense grant. An offer of employment is contingent upon the selected candidate being eligible for and able to obtain and maintain a U.S. government security clearance (Secret or higher) and any necessary export control licenses to perform the job functions. This is an in-person position.

Requirements

Master's degree in Engineering, Defense Studies, Systems Engineering, Operations Management, or substantially related fields and four (4) years of relevant experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Eligible for and able to obtain and maintain a U.S. government security clearance (Secret or higher) and any necessary export control licenses.

Nice To Haves

5 + years of direct experience in program management, defense technology testing, operational exercises, field demonstrations, or technology validation environments.
Experience coordinating complex technical projects involving multiple stakeholders, vendors, and operational constraints.
Ability to effectively communicate technical and operational concepts with a variety of audiences.
Proven expertise in managing programs, including planning, execution, budgeting, risk management, logistics coordination, and delivery of technical demonstrations or validation events (PMP certification or equivalent experience a plus).
Familiarity with defense innovation, prototype evaluation, dual-use technologies, autonomy systems, sensing platforms, communications technologies, or advanced manufacturing solutions preferred.
Military service and experience with planning and executing military exercises are highly desired.

Responsibilities

Serve as the primary point of contact for DoD sponsors and stakeholders.
Design, plan, and execute technology testing events, field exercises, and validation experiences that simulate real-world operational conditions relevant to current defense priorities and contemporary conflict environments.
Coordinate with military stakeholders, technical subject matter experts, academic partners, and industry participants to develop realistic test scenarios, success criteria, and evaluation frameworks.
Oversee project planning, scheduling, and resource allocation to ensure all milestones and deliverables are met.
Assign roles and responsibilities to project staff and ensure clear communication across all functional areas.
Manage logistics and operational execution for field demonstrations, prototype testing, and technology assessment events, including site coordination, scheduling, resource allocation, equipment support, and vendor readiness.
Track participant progress, testing outcomes, technology performance metrics, and program impact; collect and analyze data to generate reports and demonstrate measurable outcomes aligned with relevant Statement of Work requirements.
Develop after-action reports, lessons learned, and recommendations for technology refinement, follow-on funding opportunities, and transition pathways into defense acquisition or pilot programs.