Senior IT Project Manager (contract)
About The Position
We’re looking for a Senior IT Project Manager with 10+ years of experience leading large, complex, cross-functional technology initiatives involving technical teams, business stakeholders, and external vendors. The ideal candidate has a strong track record managing software development and implementation projects using Agile methodologies, from initiation through closure, with preferred experience launching and delivering Payroll products or solutions. They are highly organized, proactive, and able to anticipate needs, identify potential challenges, and take action to keep initiatives moving forward. This role requires a strong understanding of both technology and business operations, with prior experience as a Data Analyst, Business Analyst, or Software Developer a plus. The successful candidate will be comfortable partnering with technical teams and vendors, translating business needs into actionable requirements, and investigating technical issues when needed to help identify root causes, facilitate resolution, and keep work moving. Strong skills in issue and risk management, dependency management, and navigating complex technical environments are essential. The ability to work effectively under pressure and through ambiguity, while maintaining focus and momentum, is critical to success. The Senior IT Project Manager will lead projects within established SOX controls and governance requirements and provide clear, concise status reporting to C-suite executives and senior leaders. The role requires exceptional communication, stakeholder management, organizational skills, and the ability to drive accountability across multiple workstreams. This person must be able to balance competing priorities, quickly adapt to changing needs, and bring structure and clarity to complex situations. Experience with Agile planning tools such as Azure DevOps, Jira, or Target Process and proficiency with the Microsoft 365 suite are expected. We’re looking for someone who is action-oriented, technically curious, highly organized, and solutions-focused, someone who takes initiative, rolls up their sleeves, and dives into the details when needed to solve problems and deliver results. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced environment, remains composed under pressure, and brings the judgment and leadership needed to move complex initiatives forward even when priorities, requirements, or circumstances change.
Requirements
- 10+ years of project management experience, with a proven track record of leading business, technology, and/or process improvement projects
- PMI (Project Management Institute) PMP® (Project Management Professional) certification required
- Bachelor’s degree in required
- Strong knowledge of project management methodologies such as Agile, Scrum, Waterfall, or Hybrid approaches
- Ability to navigate complex, cross-functional environments and collaborate with diverse stakeholders
- Proficiency with project management tools including Microsoft Project, Jira, and Smartsheet
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office including SharePoint/Teams, Excel, Word, and Visio
- Excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills
- Strong ability to manage competing priorities in a dynamic, fast-paced setting
Nice To Haves
- Experience launching and delivering Payroll products or solutions
- Prior experience as a Data Analyst, Business Analyst, or Software Developer
- Familiarity with process improvement methodologies such as Lean or Six Sigma preferred
- Healthcare experience a plus
Responsibilities
- Lead, plan, and execute cross-functional business, technology, and process improvement projects from initiation to completion.
- Develop and maintain comprehensive project plans, roadmaps, and timelines, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within scope, and on budget.
- Ability to apply project management methodologies and practices, including developing a project plan, charter, scope, project management approach and management plans, such as the statement of work, cost estimates, and schedule.
- Manage project scope, risks, dependencies, and deliverables, proactively identifying and resolving roadblocks and escalating accordingly.
- Serve as the primary point of contact for stakeholders, ensuring clear communication and collaboration across teams.
- Work closely with business leaders, technology teams, and process owners to align project objectives with organizational goals.
- Facilitate executive-level discussions and provide data-driven insights for decision-making.
- Manage relationships with third-party vendors, contractors, and service providers, ensuring contractual obligations and SLAs are met when applicable.
- Provide guidance, mentorship, and coaching to junior and mid-level project managers to enhance their skills and effectiveness.
- Foster a culture of continuous learning and professional development within the project management team.
- Lead training sessions or knowledge-sharing workshops on best practices, methodologies, and emerging project management trends.
- Apply best practices in project management methodologies (Agile, Waterfall, Hybrid) to drive efficiency and effectiveness.
- Identify opportunities for business process optimization, operational improvements, and automation.
- Implement project governance frameworks, ensuring alignment with organizational standards.
- Lead change management efforts to ensure seamless adoption of new business processes or technologies.
- Develop and manage project budgets, forecasts, and resource allocation.
- Define and track key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure project success and business impact.
Benefits
- Full-time contract position
- $75-$100 per hour
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
