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Program Manager Research Operations Jobs (NOW HIRING)

University of Rochester

$70K - $105K/yr

... as the CDC PRC Operations Committee). Research * Manage discussions with NCDHR team and ... Manage program scope, schedule, and resources, in close collaboration with investigators.

Astera

Manager, Research Operations

East Brunswick, NJ · On-site

$120K - $130K/yr

The Manager of Research Operation oversees the accurate execution of study visit procedures and the proper collection and documentation of patient data in accordance with study protocols. A key focus ...

UAB NOVA RENT

PROGRAM MANAGER II

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$51K - $83K/yr

Responsible for administratively managing a large or complex University program or multiple ... Setup subawards associated with research operations * Monitor subaward invoicing and submit ...

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Program Manager Research Operations information

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$40K

$109.5K

$158.5K

How much do program manager research operations jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for program manager research operations in the United States is $109,477.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,500.00 and $132,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Program Manager Research Operations?

Program Manager Research Operations are professionals who oversee and coordinate the administrative and operational aspects of research programs within organizations such as universities, corporations, or healthcare institutions. Their responsibilities typically include managing budgets, ensuring compliance with regulations, supporting research teams, and improving efficiency in research processes. They act as a bridge between researchers, administrative staff, and external partners to ensure projects run smoothly and meet organizational goals. Program Managers in Research Operations play a critical role in enabling scientific and academic research by providing strategic and logistical support.

What is the difference between Program Manager Research Operations vs Research Coordinator?

AspectProgram Manager Research OperationsResearch Coordinator
CredentialsBachelor's or higher in related field, project management certifications often preferredBachelor's degree in a relevant field, research experience
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple projects, collaborates with teams, manages budgetsSupports research projects, handles data collection, assists with study logistics
Employer & IndustryResearch institutions, biotech, pharma, academiaResearch labs, clinical settings, academic institutions
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding managerial roles in research operationsDetails on research support roles and coordination tasks

The Program Manager Research Operations typically oversees multiple research projects, manages teams, and handles budgets, requiring project management skills. In contrast, a Research Coordinator focuses on supporting specific research studies, managing data collection, and logistical tasks. Both roles are essential in research environments but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Program Manager Research Operations, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Program Manager Research Operations, you need expertise in research administration, project management, and budget oversight, often supported by a relevant degree and experience in research environments. Familiarity with project management tools (e.g., Asana, MS Project), research compliance systems, and grant management platforms is typically essential. Strong leadership, organizational skills, and effective communication enable collaboration across multidisciplinary teams and stakeholders. These skills ensure efficient research operations, regulatory compliance, and successful project outcomes.

What are the main challenges Program Managers in Research Operations typically face when coordinating cross-functional teams?

Program Managers in Research Operations often encounter challenges related to aligning diverse stakeholders, balancing multiple project timelines, and ensuring smooth communication between research, product, and operations teams. Successfully navigating these challenges requires strong organizational skills, adaptability, and the ability to manage competing priorities while maintaining research quality and compliance. Regularly facilitating meetings, setting clear expectations, and using project management tools help mitigate these challenges and ensure collaborative progress.
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What cities are hiring for Program Manager Research Operations jobs? Cities with the most Program Manager Research Operations job openings:
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Program Manager Research Operations jobs near you
Infographic showing various Program Manager Research Operations job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,477 per year, or $52.6 per hour.
PROGRAM MANAGER (RESEARCH OPERATIONS)

PROGRAM MANAGER (RESEARCH OPERATIONS)

Defense Threat Reduction Agency

Fort Belvoir, VA • On-site, Remote

$143K - $187K/yr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Summary
This position may be filled using Direct Hire Authority and is in the Department of Defense (DoD) Acquisition Workforce Personnel Demonstration Project (AcqDemo): Z5CAV/Direct-Hire Authority (Certain DoD Personnel) PL 118-31, Sec 125OB (i)(2), 12/22/2023.This position is being filled under the memorandum from the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness (USD(P&R)) "Expansion of Direct Hire Authority for Certain Personnel of the Department of Defense," dated August 12,2024.
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Duties
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As a PROGRAM MANAGER (RESEARCH OPERATIONS) at the GS-0340-14 some of your typical work assignments may include:
  • Serves as the Program Manager (PM) and technical authority within the Research Operations Division (RD-CBC), responsible for the full life-cycle direction of major, high-visibility, and exceptionally complex R&D programs in the broad area of Chemical and Biological Defense.
  • Conceives, plans, develops, and directs the execution of department-wide, multi-year program strategies, orchestrating all aspects of cost, schedule, performance, and risk.
  • Resolves critical programmatic conflicts, makes authoritative decisions on R&D acquisition and procurement, identifies and evaluates alternatives for achieving those objectives, and generates program and project acquisition plans.
  • Assesses and defines technical requirements, resolves critical problems, facilitates communication with all stakeholders, manages program interaction, and ensures accomplishment of scientific and technical program goals.
  • Maintains rigorous oversight of financial execution, ensuring that spend plans are accurately implemented and that all procurement actions align with the approved budget.
  • Provides authoritative advice and recommendations that shape the long-range acquisition approach for science and technology to ensure synchronization and alignment with the Department's strategic goals.

Requirements
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Conditions of employment
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen
  • Occasional Travel
  • Work Schedule: Full-time
  • Males born after 12-31-59 must be registered for Selective Service
  • Suitable for Federal employment, determined by a background investigation
  • May be required to successfully complete a probationary period
  • Overtime: Occasionally
  • Tour of Duty: Flexible
  • Recruitment Incentives: As approved by the hiring manager
  • Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA): Exempt
  • Financial Disclosure: Required
  • Telework Eligibility: This position is telework eligible
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI (Top Secret/SCI access) security access.
  • Must consent to and pass pre-employment drug testing and random drug testing thereafter.
  • Travel in the performance of temporary assignments may be required (up to 10%). Travel may be required to locations within and outside the continental United States.
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain a valid passport.
  • This is an Acquisition Workforce position in the Program Management functional area. The incumbent will be required to become certified in the Practitioner tier within 5 years.
  • The incumbent is required to acquire a minimum of 40 continuous learning points (CLPs) every year as a goal and 80 CLPs being mandatory within 2 years.
  • Incumbent is required to submit a Confidential Financial Disclosure Form, OGE 450, within 30 days of entering the position, annually and upon termination of employment (DoD Directive 5500.7-R, Joint Ethics Regulation, August 30, 1993).
  • The employee must be willing to comply with each Combatant Command (COCOM) travel medical requirement to include vaccinations.

Qualifications
You may qualify at the GS 14 , if you fulfill the following qualifications:
A. Have one year of specialized experience at the next lower grade (GS-13) or equivalent in the federal service (experience may have been gained in the private sector). Specialized Experienced is defined as:
  • Planning, managing, and executing highly complex, large-scale, and challenging defense acquisition programs. Implementing advanced acquisition strategies for major Research and Development programs
  • Advising senior leadership on multi-faceted technology development programs, providing critical recommendations that shape and influence programmatic strategies
  • Applying Planning, Programming, Budgeting, and Execution (PPBE) expertise to formulate and defend multi-year budget requests before Directorate and Agency senior leadership
  • Translating technical concepts into clear programmatic and fiscal terms to integrate efforts across military services, and government agencies.

Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
Education
Substitution of education may not be used in lieu of specialized experience for this grade level.
Additional information
Other Notes:
ACQUISITION POSITION: This is an Acquisition Workforce position in the Program Management functional area. The incumbent will be required to become certified in the Practitioner tier within 5 years. The incumbent is required to acquire a minimum of 40 continuous learning points (CLPs) every fiscal year as a goal and 80 CLPs being mandatory within 2 years.
Noncompetitive Appointment Authorities: For more information on noncompetitive appointment authority eligibility requirements: Special Hiring Authority for Certain Military Spouses
RE-EMPLOYED ANNUITANT: This position DOES NOT meet criteria for re-employed annuitant. The DoD criteria for hiring Re-employed Annuitants can be found at: https://www.esd.whs.mil/Portals/54/Documents/DD/issuances/140025/1400.25-V300.pdf
Males born after 12-31-59 must be registered or exempt from Selective Service (see Who Needs to Register | Selective Service System : Selective Service System (sss.gov))
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Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
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A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
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Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

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