Project Manager Financial System

Careers at the Applied Research Laboratory at the Pennsylvania State University

Engineering Project Adviser (Financial)

The Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State is an integral part of one of the leading research universities in the nation and serves as a University center of excellence in defense science, systems, and technologies with a focus in naval missions and related areas. We are seeking a self-motivated, customer service oriented junior project manager to join our Fluid Dynamics and Acoustics Office (FDAO). In this role, you’ll work alongside experienced engineers and senior project managers, gaining exposure to innovative research programs and laboratory operations. If you’re eager to grow your project management skills in a collaborative, technical environment, this is the opportunity for you! This position offers flexibility with either fully on‑site or hybrid work options, with on-site located in State College, PA.

ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply.

You’ll play a key role in supporting project financial management as you build schedules, identify and escalate roadblocks, coordinate with vendors, and build/strengthen networks. At a higher level, you will contribute to process improvement initiatives that enhance the overall project management workflow.

By working closely with seasoned project managers, engineers, and research leaders, you’ll gain practical experience in financial and technical project management across ARL. You’ll have opportunities to take on increasing responsibility and expand your skill set through mentorship, hands‑on learning, internal training, and professional certification support. As you progress, you’ll be positioned for success within ARL, offering a pathway for long-term career growth.

Requirements include:

• Minimum of a Bachelor’s degree and one year of relevant experience as a financial project manager or an equivalent combination of education and experience; at least three years required for a higher level
• Success in environments where various forms of communication and organizational skills were crucial to be effective
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Demonstrated initiative and drive to learn, grow, and take on increasing responsibilities
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and MS Project or similar tools)

Added bonus for us includes:

• Current eligibility for access to classified information at the Secret level or higher and may be subject to a government background investigation to upgrade clearance eligibility, if required
• Experience in part fabrication processes
• Knowledge of materials used in a research lab and familiarity with engineering software
• Knowledge of procure-to-pay systems (e.g., PSUBuy)
• Active project management certification or training (e.g., CAPM, PMP)

Happy Valley, aka State College, PA, is home to the Penn State Nittany Lions as a Big Ten college sporting event mecca and the Bryce Jordan Center, which has hosted some of the world’s best entertainers. We have miles of hiking trails, numerous lakes for water sports, and streams for world renowned fly fishing. If you want a quick getaway, we are within reach of the Finger Lakes of New York, Hershey's Chocolate Town, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and the Big Apple. Our local University Park airport can take you literally anywhere else! Whether you're in the mood for a family day at the lake, an educational day trip to the Pennsylvania State Capitol Complex, want to catch a Steelers or Eagles home game, or need a long weekend at Maryland's beaches, you can do it all from here!

Notice regarding employment at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL):

Employees must be eligible to obtain a government security clearance, participate in the ARL drug testing program, and comply with electronic and physical monitoring requirements applicable to federal contractors. ARL operates in a secure information environment involving Unclassified, Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), and Classified information. Personal electronic devices brought onsite must be registered and may be restricted from certain areas.You must be a U.S. citizen to apply.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION on ARL, visit our web site at www.arl.psu.edu.

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.

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Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

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