How to Apply

A cover letter is required for consideration for this position and should be attached as the first page of your resume. The cover letter should address your specific interest in the position and outline skills and experience that directly relate to this position.

Job Summary

The United States Space Force Space Strategic Technology Institute for Space Power and Propulsion for Agility, Resilience, and Responsiveness (SPAR) is seeking an experienced Project Manager to provide technical and project leadership for a five-year, multi-million dollar consortium of universities and small businesses. The goals of this institute include developing and demonstrating technologies for enabling next-generation space power and propulsion capabilities. It is a fast paced, milestone oriented program to advance strategic technologies to TRL 5.

The Project Manager will be responsible, along with the project Principal Investigator, for all key communications with sponsor and team members on project execution against project requirements, schedule, and cost.

The Project Manager will plan, coordinate and help to manage Project Team activities by developing project plans, organizing design reviews, setting meeting agendas, developing action item lists, and developing similar work products.

Mission Statement

Michigan Engineers are world-class educators, researchers, students and staff who strive to build a people-first future. As part of a top national public research institution, Michigan Engineering's mission is to provide scientific and technological leadership to the people of the world, develop intellectually curious and socially conscious minds, create collaborative solutions to societal problems, and promote an inclusive and innovative community of service for the common good.

Our vision, mission and values are supported by a people-first engineering framework that guides our work. As Michigan Engineers, we strive to apply excellent engineering fundamentals, integrated expertise and equity centered values to reimagine what engineering can be, close critical gaps, and elevate all people. Information about our vision, mission and values can be found at: http://strategicvision.engin.umich.edu/.

The University of Michigan has a storied legacy of commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI). Michigan Engineering models that commitment in our research, culture and collaborations. We seek to recruit and retain a diverse workforce as a reflection of that commitment. Learn more about DEI at Michigan Engineering: https://www.engin.umich.edu/culture/diversity-equity-inclusion/

Responsibilities*

Develop project plans to address contractual requirement and organizational needs for project management
Work with lead research administrator to ensure milestones are met and funding distributed to contractors
Facilitate communication between key stakeholders, project team members, and contractors
Develop, maintain, and report on a project plan and other project planning documents including but not limited to the Work Breakdown Structure (WBS), the Integrated Master Schedule (IMS), and the baseline cost plan for the entire project
Identify and track both critical path and "in the shadow of the critical path" task
Maintain and report on key milestones as well as summary tasks. As needed, track spending,
estimates at completion, balances, and "get well" plans for project team
Coordinate with key stakeholders, keeping them informed of project progress, identifying and tracking issues that are of specific concern to the government, and key stakeholders.
Provide briefings and oral presentations to key stakeholders
Ensure issues, concerns, requirements, and priorities of each party are successfully transmitted to all parties and that project planning reflects sponsor needs.
Prepare meeting agendas and summaries for regular project review meetings.
Support periodic in person visits to project team members and contractors for technical interchanges
Other duties which may evolve from this position include new bid and proposal development
responsibilities, and project portfolio management responsibilities

Required Qualifications*

Funding source requires US citizenship
Eligible to conduct or engage in restricted research
Bachelor Degree in Engineering or an equivalent degree directly related to the duties of this position. Master's or Doctorate Degree in Space Systems Engineering or Aerospace Engineering related field preferred
Five years experience or related experience in project management with NASA, DoD, or similar aerospace industry
Professional project management certification preferred
Experience in the use of project planning and management tools
Knowledge of or experience with in-space propulsion and or nuclear powers systems
Experience working constructively organizing and leading project teams
Ability and desire to maintain and expand relationships through the delivery of high quality work.
Ability to think independently and provide others with convincing and persuasive evidence that supports a stated strategy or position
Ability to multitask and work effectively and quickly, both independently and in teams, ensuring timely completion of assignments and meeting established quality standards
Superior interpersonal skills, including the ability to interact in a professional manner with senior level government managers and teammates during periods of high stress and tight deadlines.

Modes of Work

The work requires and the supervisor approves a fully onsite presence in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

Additional Information

A higher salary may be considered for an exceptionally qualified candidate.

This is a five (5) year term-limited position through November 30, 2029 with possible renewal based on funding extension.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED: This position reports to the Principal Investigator. This position will interact with researchers and engineers in other departments and universities. The position also will interact with administrative and financial staff at the university and other institutions.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED: The Project Lead Manager will work with and direct project staff within the Laboratory, as well as provide functional supervision of one full time employee, the Research Administrator Lead supporting the project.

Background Screening

The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background checks. Background checks are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

Application Deadline

Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled anytime after the minimum posting period has ended.

U-M EEO/AA Statement

The University of Michigan is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.