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Program Manager Research Operations Jobs in Ashburn, VA

Associate Manager, Research Operations

Rockville, MD · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... managing operations related to new and future services and products developed within the research ... project and program plans. o Identify project issues and proactively implement plans to resolve ...

... operational in nature. Analyze and disseminate data as well as industry insights to FMI members ... programs, and studies. Work with the Vice President, Research & Insights, along with the Marketing ...

Program Manager

Rockville, MD

$65K - $108K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Provide operational oversight and tracking of DPI research projects, including: * Monthly status ... Demonstrated program management and strategic operational leadership, including: * Cross-functional ...

Program Manager

Rockville, MD · On-site

$65K - $108K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Provide operational oversight and tracking of DPI research projects, including: * Monthly status ... Demonstrated program management and strategic operational leadership, including: * Cross-functional ...

Program Manager

Arlington, VA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

Program Manager Apogee Research brings cutting-edge research into practice for the DoD community. We blend agility with rigor to develop new technologies and transition them for operational use.

Manager, Research Services

Washington, DC · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Join Goodwin's Global Operations Team, and make a real impact on a global scale. At Goodwin, we ... Employee recognition and reward programs * Employee wellness and assistance programs * Employee ...

Program Manager

Arlington, VA · On-site

$160K - $180K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Strong ability to interpret complex data, identify trends, and conduct research. * Communication ... NGB) J3/4/7 Operations Directorate. About Us: At HunaTek, we build teams of people from all ...

Program Manager

Arlington, VA

$160K - $180K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Strong ability to interpret complex data, identify trends, and conduct research. * Communication ... NGB) J3/4/7 Operations Directorate. About Us: At HunaTek, we build teams of people from all ...

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Showing results 1-20

Program Manager Research Operations information

See Ashburn, VA salary details

$40.9K

$112K

$162.1K

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

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for program manager research operations in Ashburn, VA is $111,952.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $87,400.00 and $135,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a 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 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.

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 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 popular job titles related to Program Manager Research Operations jobs in Ashburn, VA?

For Program Manager Research Operations jobs in Ashburn, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Program Manager Research Operations jobs in Ashburn, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Program Manager Research Operations jobs in Ashburn, VA are:

Associate Manager, Research Operations

Meso Scale Discovery

Rockville, MD

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

POSITION SUMMARY:

This position is responsible for implementing and managing operations related to new and future services and products developed within the research group.  The incumbent will be responsible for assisting in the development and implementation of operational plans as well as managing teams to ensure the successful launch and sustainable operation of new assay services for research applications. 

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: 

• Coordinate development and implementation of verification and validation plans for each new offering in collaboration with the quality assurance department.

• Coordinate scalable reagent production processes, and develop and implement reagent QC processes.

• Coordinate transfer of large scale reagent manufacturing to production teams as needed. Manage reagent inventory and ongoing reagent production for new assay service(s).

• Coordinate transfer of new assay protocols to testing teams.  Ensure teams are properly trained on new protocols and implement process for proficiency testing. 

• Work with marketing and strategic sales to produce marketing materials and proposals that support sales of new assay portfolio.

• Oversee/manage customer projects to ensure results are delivered on time, within budget, adhere to quality standards, and meet customer expectations.  

• Collaborate with legal, customer service, procurement and sales teams on execution of service agreements.

• Manage work efforts of cross-functional project teams in order to deliver projects according to project and program plans.

o Identify project issues and proactively implement plans to resolve such issues and mitigate project impact.

o Determine resource needs and ensures allocated resources are aligned with forecasted work.

o Perform quality reviews of project deliverables for compliance to established practices and standards.

o Ensure smooth transition of project related methodologies to production and testing teams.

• Support research team in development of new services and products.

• Manage, train and coach operations team staff while motivating them to meet and exceed established metrics and goals.

• Specific duties will change over time depending upon departmental and project requirements.

EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in Science, Engineering, or equivalent work experience.

o Master’s degree or PhD is strongly preferred 

• A minimum of four years of experience with immunoassay testing and/or development.  

• A minimum of one year of supervisory experience.

• Project management certification or completion of a recognized project management curriculum or equivalent work experience desired but not required.

• Experience in a research or clinical-focused services organization desired.

• Experience in life science, GMP, government contracting or other regulated industry desired.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Strong analytical background. 

• Demonstrated understanding of the principles of immunoassays, their development, and their applicability in different research fields. 

• Organizational, project, and priority management skills for planning, executing and following up on issues, projects and daily responsibilities in order to meet established deadlines.

• Solid leadership skills with demonstrated knowledge and understanding of staff management practices and the ability to establish accountabilities and expectations and manage performance to achieve results.

• Solid communication (written and verbal) skills with the ability to translate information into a meaningful, understandable context and message, regardless of the format (e.g., documents, public speaking situations, presentations, etc.). 

• Ability to effectively deal with internal and external customers and staff. Ability to interact with a high level of patience, tact, and diplomacy, and can maintain composure under pressure.  Can easily mediate and resolve conflicts.

• Demonstrated propensity to be creative, collaborative, proactive, and self-motivated in the execution and completion of assigned accountabilities.

• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, high-energy, demanding and deadline driven environment.

• Ability to work independently, as an effective team member and with all levels of the company.

• Proficiency in MS Office Suite; MS Project experience desired.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• While performing the duties of this job, the individual is frequently required to sit and stand for long periods. The individual is occasionally required to walk; use hands and fingers to operate, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms. 

• There are aspects of this position may require an individual to work at heights above four (4) feet and move/lift up to 25 pounds. 

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• This position is performed in a traditional office environment, and in standard biology laboratory environments with chemical and biological reagents up to BSL-2+.

COMPENSATION SUMMARY

The annual base salary for this position ranges from $101,400. to $154,700. This salary range represents a general guideline as MSD considers other factors when presenting an offer of employment, such as scope and responsibilities of the position, external market factors, and the candidate’s knowledge, skills, abilities, education and experience. Employees may qualify for a discretionary or non-discretionary bonus in addition to their base salary. These annual bonuses are intended to recognize individual performance and enable employees to benefit from the Company's overall success.

BENEFITS SUMMARY

At MSD, we offer a comprehensive benefits package to support our employees' well-being and financial security. In addition to competitive salaries, our benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage, along with prescription benefits. We provide a 401(k) plan with company matching, flexible spending accounts, and company-paid short- and long-term disability insurance as well as group life and accidental death and dismemberment insurance. Our offerings also encompass paid vacation, paid sick leave, paid holidays, and paid parental leave, along with an employee assistance program. Additional voluntary perks include a fitness club membership contribution, pet insurance, identity theft protection, home and auto insurance discounts, and optional supplemental life insurance.

EEO/AA STATEMENT

MSD is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates, making employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, national origin, age, protected veteran status, pregnancy, disability status, or any other protected characteristic. For our full EEO/AA and Pay Transparency statement, please visit here.

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