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Program Manager Contract Jobs in State College, PA

Program Manager

University Park, PA · On-site

$59K - $86K/yr

The program manager is the hub of the wheel as they coordinate logistics, budgeting, marketing, registration, speakers, program development, contracts, on-site management, and evaluation for each ...

This role will support one of the program areas within the space portfolio and other exciting new ... Contract types * Demonstrated ability to develop effective relationships with customers and ...

New

Reviews established terms of owner contract or assists with finalizing owner contract if not yet ... program, or similar related career experience. * 6+ years of experience on construction projects ...

Reviews established terms of owner contract or assists with finalizing owner contract if not yet ... program, or similar related career experience. * 6+ years of experience on construction projects ...

Reviews established terms of owner contract or assists with finalizing owner contract if not yet ... program, or similar related career experience. * 6+ years of experience on construction projects ...

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Program Manager Contract information

See State College, PA salary details

$37.7K

$105.1K

$153.5K

How much do program manager contract jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for program manager contract in State College, PA is $105,096.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,800.00 and $129,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Program Manager Contract position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Program Manager Contract, you need strong project management abilities, expertise in contract negotiation, and a relevant degree or equivalent experience in business or a related field. Familiarity with project management software (such as MS Project or Asana), contract management systems, and certifications like PMP or Contract Management Certification are often preferred. Excellent communication, problem-solving, and stakeholder management skills are essential soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure smooth program delivery, compliance with contractual obligations, and effective collaboration with cross-functional teams.

What are the typical challenges faced by Program Manager Contracts and how can they be overcome?

Program Manager Contracts often face the challenge of balancing multiple projects while ensuring all contractual obligations are met on time and within budget. Navigating complex stakeholder requirements and adapting to changing project scopes are also common hurdles. Successful Program Managers overcome these by maintaining clear communication, prioritizing tasks effectively, and leveraging project management tools to track progress. Building strong relationships with clients, vendors, and internal teams is crucial to navigate and resolve challenges as they arise. Being proactive and detail-oriented can greatly contribute to success in this dynamic role.

What is a Program Manager Contract job?

A Program Manager Contract job is a temporary or fixed-term role where a professional oversees multiple related projects, ensuring alignment with business goals. These managers coordinate teams, manage budgets, mitigate risks, and drive project execution within a specified timeframe. Unlike full-time roles, contract positions typically focus on delivering specific outcomes within a limited duration. Program Manager Contractors may work for a company directly or through a consulting firm. Their expertise is critical in implementing strategic initiatives efficiently.

What job categories do people searching Program Manager Contract jobs in State College, PA look for? The top searched job categories for Program Manager Contract jobs in State College, PA are:
What cities near State College, PA are hiring for Program Manager Contract jobs? Cities near State College, PA with the most Program Manager Contract job openings:
Infographic showing various Program Manager Contract job openings in State College, PA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 49% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 31% Contract. Highlights an 68% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 29% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,096 per year, or $50.5 per hour.
Program Manager

Program Manager

Penn State University

University Park, PA • On-site

$59K - $86K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago


Penn State University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 103 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

225th of 611 rated colleges and universities


Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
  • CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.
POSITION SPECIFICS
Conferences and Institutes, a department within Penn State Outreach, is seeking a Program Manager. The ideal program manager is an extremely organized, task-oriented individual who can work with faculty members to develop and deliver conferences and summer youth programs, as well as credit programs that have an off-site learning component. While working as part of a team, program managers oversee a portfolio of 15-20 programs annually. The program manager is the hub of the wheel as they coordinate logistics, budgeting, marketing, registration, speakers, program development, contracts, on-site management, and evaluation for each program, with each program having its own unique objectives and needs.
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
Bachelor's Degree3+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience acceptedRequired Certifications:None
Preferred Experience:
The ideal candidate will have demonstrated skills in event planning, program management, or project management. The ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, excellent communication skills, budgeting experience, problem-solving skills, attention to detail, teamwork, and organization are critical to the program manager's success. We value candidates who are forward-thinking, open-minded, and flexible, who have the dedication to learn a variety of new programs, procedures, and systems. This position requires a flexible schedule during conference delivery and will include occasional weekend and evening work.
Application Materials:
To be considered for the position, candidates must submit both a resume and cover letter stating their interest.
Additional Information:
Conferences & Institutes takes pride in providing a positive, supportive, team-oriented, and flexible work culture (including work-from-home privileges), in which employees have a voice and are valued. The successful candidate must be able to work independently as well as collaboratively with other program managers and program coordinators in the office.
This is a hybrid position that combines weekly remote and on-campus work. Questions related to hybrid work arrangement should be directed to the hiring manager.
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
This position requires the following clearances in addition to applicable background checks: PA State Police Criminal Background Check, PA Child Abuse History Clearance Form, and Federal (FBI) Fingerprint Criminal Background Check.
Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.
SALARY & BENEFITS
The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $59,580.00 - $86,400.00.
Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure
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.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
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.
Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission.
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