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).

  • 522285
  • Manhattan, Kansas, United States
  • Research Vice President
  • Staff Full Time (Unclassified - Regular)
  • Closing at: Oct 16 2026 - 23:55 CDT
  • On-site
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About This Role

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.

About Us

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.

Worksite Description

This position is On-site.

What You'll Need to Succeed

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

How to Apply

Please submit the following documents:

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

Application Window

Applications close on: October 16, 2026

Anticipated Hiring Pay Range

$53,581-$70,000

 

Why Join Us:

Kansas State University offers a supportive and inclusive community, dedicated to your professional growth. While specific benefits may vary by position, many roles come with comprehensive packages that support your well-being and work-life balance, including health and life insurance, retirement plans, and generous paid time off. To learn more about benefits that are available for various positions, visit our benefits overview page.

Work Authorization and Sponsorship: 

Employees must be authorized to work in the United States at the time of employment. International candidates who require employer-sponsored work authorization are welcome to apply. Eligibility for visa sponsorship depends on several factors, including but not limited to, the job’s occupational requirements, specific duties, wage level, the candidate’s qualifications (such as degree field) and available departmental resources. As a result, not all positions or applicants will be eligible for sponsorship.

Equal Employment Opportunity:

Kansas State University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, age, national origin, disability or status as a protected veteran.

Remote and Hybrid work options:

Some positions are eligible for remote or hybrid working arrangements.  An employee who is working in a remote or hybrid capacity for K-State must reside within the United States in order to comply with all federal and state laws, filings, or tax requirements. Remote and hybrid work arrangements are not available for anyone who resides in the state of Idaho.

Relocation to Kansas: 

Kansas participates in the MakeMyMove program, which connects eligible newcomers with participating communities offering financial incentives, housing support, and local perks to help make your move easier and more rewarding. If relocating from outside of Kansas you can visit the site to apply online for the program incentives. 

Background Screening Statement:

Upon acceptance of a contingent offer of employment, a candidate may be subject to a background check per K-State’s background check policy.

Interview Preferences:

Kansas State University honors interview preferences for qualified applicants who are veterans or individuals with disabilities. Eligible applicants who meet the minimum qualifications, submit all required application materials, and submit required preference documentation by the closing date on the job advertisement will be granted a first-level interview.

The disability and veteran interview preferences do not apply to student employment positions, temporary positions, athletics positions, academic and administrative department heads*, positions that require licensure as a physician, and positions that require that the employee be admitted to practice law in Kansas.

*Heads of Departments refers to any individual holding a primary leadership role responsible for the overall strategic direction, management and operational oversight of a recognized academic or administrative unit within the university.

To learn more about interview preferences at K-State, please visit our interview preferences page.