Program Manager: Department of Mechanical, Aerospace, and Biomedical Engineering - UTK

The ideal candidate is a dynamic relationship-builder with demonstrated program management expertise and a strong commitment to community and economic advancement. UTK is the lead university, which means that all funds will run through UTK accounts with certain budget components being subcontracted among the six sub-awardees. The Project Manager will report to the principal investigator (PI) within the Department of MAE. The Program Manager will work directly with team members within and external to UTK. She/he will serve as the face of UTK with all partner institutions to manage the significant communication and coordination needs of a project of this scope and will administer the fiscal, administrative, and data management responsibilities. The Project Manager will be an expert in the area of implementing and overseeing delivery of leadership, management, and guidance to IUCRC that includes financial, operational, and personnel aspects of research. The Project Manager will work actively with internal and external university partners to launch and monitor the complexities of this diverse network of stakeholders by ensuring the IUCRC goals are accomplished. The Project Manager will make decisions that have a direct impact on the workflow timing and quality of outcomes.

• Drive member and partner recruitment through proactive outreach, networking, and relationship management.
• Design and implement strategies to attract, retain, and engage members while enhancing the overall value proposition of membership.
• Oversee the planning, coordination, and execution of programs and initiatives to ensure quality and impact.
• Manage budgets, timelines, and performance metrics to ensure program success and long-term sustainability.
• Assess and improve processes to increase operational efficiency and effectiveness.
• Lead the integration and oversight of AI and machine learning solutions within organizational operations.
• Develop and manage workforce development strategies and partnerships to strengthen talent pipelines and address workforce gaps.
• Advance program growth by designing career pathways, training opportunities, and support services, while leveraging data for continuous improvement.

Qualifications :

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Management, Education, or related field required; advanced degree (MBA, MPA, or related) preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in program management, business development, workforce development, or community engagement.
• Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively.
• Excellent communication, networking, and relationship-building skills with diverse stakeholders.
• Proven analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
• Ability to balance high-level strategy with detail-oriented program execution.

Preferred Skills

• Experience with workforce training programs, career development, or educational partnerships.
• Experience working with the Army or other Services or Joint Operations.
• Knowledge of workforce trends, talent pipeline strategies, and K–12/postsecondary education systems.
• Familiarity with CRM systems, membership management software, or project management tools.
• Demonstrated success in cultivating partnerships across business, education, and community sectors.

Work Location:

Knoxville, TN - Onsite

Compensation and Benefits:

• UT market range: MR14
• Anticipated hiring range: $80,000

Application Instructions:

Applicants are requested to submit the following materials as part of their application package:

• Resume
• Cover Letter
• Contact information for at least three professional references

The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, has shaped leaders, changemakers, and innovative thinkers since its founding in 1794. The university is home to more than 38,000 students and 10,000 statewide employees—the Volunteers—who uphold the university’s tradition of lighting the way for others through leadership and service.

UT Knoxville offers over 900 programs of study across 14 degree-granting colleges and schools. As Tennessee’s flagship land-grant university, its footprint spans the entire state. The university holds the highest Carnegie classification for research activity and has deep partnerships with industry leaders and the US Department of Energy’s largest multidisciplinary laboratory, Oak Ridge National Laboratory.

The Knoxville campus serves and recruits for UT Knoxville, including the Institute of Agriculture and the Space Institute, as well as the UT Institute of Public Service.

UT Knoxville considers its employees its number one asset. With values that focus on work-life balance, compensation, and innovation leadership, all Vols are supported to advance professionally. Employees have access to career development and coaching, continued education, and an extensive list of development and training possibilities. The Volunteer employee experience implements structures and practices that attract and retain a diverse community and that support a culture where everyone matters and belongs.

The university holds a strong commitment to its land-grant mission of learning and engagement, with a tradition of service and leadership that carries that Volunteer spirit throughout the state and around the world. It has been ranked nationally as “Best Employer for New Graduates,” “One of America’s Best Large Employers,” and “Best Workplace for Women,” and has been designated as “Best Place for Working Parents” by Forbes Magazine.

Apply today and join the Tennessee Volunteer community!