Program/Project Manager I

The Program/Project Manager is responsible for leading the planning, coordination, and implementation of a comprehensive portfolio of research-focused programs, events, and initiatives that advance the strategic priorities of the Office of the Vice President for Research (OVPR). Reporting to the Vice President for Research, this position serves as a project leader and strategic partner in the development and execution of initiatives that promote research excellence, strengthen institutional and external relationships, and enhance the visibility and impact of the university's research enterprise.

The position manages projects from concept through implementation and evaluation, coordinating activities across colleges, research centers and institutes, administration offices, university leadership, faculty, staff, corporate partners, government agencies, community organizations, and external vendors. Responsibilities include developing project plans and timelines, coordinating resources, managing budgets, convening and facilitating stakeholder groups, overseeing event and program logistics, supporting executive-level engagements, and assessing outcomes.

The position will provide leadership for a portfolio of OVPR events and programs, including research conferences, university-wide research initiatives, corporate engagement activities, executive visits, faculty and research recognition programs, and other strategic initiatives. The Program/Project Manager will exercise independent judgment in prioritizing activities, resolving issues, developing processes, and identifying opportunities to improve OVPR programming and engagement.

The Office of the Vice President for Research (OVPR) provides leadership and support for Kansas State University's research enterprise. Supporting more than $250 million in annual research expenditures, OVPR oversees research development, sponsored programs administration, research compliance, research infrastructure, core facilities, and innovation. Working with faculty, colleges, and campus partners, OVPR develops policies, processes, and services that support research and scholarship across the university in furtherance of Kansas State's mission as a next-generation land-grant institution.

This position is On-site.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High school diploma (or equivalent)
• Seven years of relevant experience in project management, program coordination, event management, higher education, research administration, business administration, corporate engagement, or a related field. Requirements may be met through a combination of work experience and education.
• Valid Drivers License

Preferred Qualifications:

• Demonstrated experience managing multiple projects, programs, or initiatives simultaneously.
• Demonstrated ability to exercise independent judgment and discretion in planning, prioritizing, and executing projects.
• Bachelor's or master's degree in Business Administration, Communications, Public Relations, Hospitality Management, Event Planning, Marketing, Higher Education Administration, or a related field.
• Experience working in higher education, research administration, economic development, nonprofit organizations, or corporate engagement.
• Experience leading complex projects involving multiple internal and external stakeholders.
• Experience managing project or program budgets.
• Experience planning and executing conferences, large-scale events, executive-level meetings, or strategic engagement initiatives.
• Experience developing project plans, reports, presentations, communications, and other materials for senior leadership or external stakeholders.
• Experience supervising or providing direction to staff, student employees, or project teams.
• Experience evaluating programs, measuring outcomes, and using data or stakeholder feedback to improve programs and initiatives.
• Knowledge of university research operations, research administration, or the research enterprise.

Additional Role Information:

• Position will require working some evenings and weekends.

Sponsorship eligibility:

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship

Please submit the following documents:

• Cover letter
• Resume
• Three professional references with contact information

Applications close on: October 16, 2026

$53,581-$70,000