Program Manager Research Operations Jobs in Phoenix, AZ

The Arizona Transportation Institute (AZTI) is  a collaborative effort between the three state universities in Arizona and ADOT. This collaboration creates a transportation research consortium dedicated to advancing transportation research and development within the state.

This position will plan, organize, and coordinate research projects for the ADOT Research Center through the Arizona Transportation Institute (AZTI). Oversees the Department's research program timelines, deliverables, financial reports, budget and expenditures. This position bridges the gap between various stakeholders, business operations, and education institutions to ensure every research initiative meets ADOT and university research standards.

This position may offer the ability to work remotely, within Arizona, based upon the department's business needs and continual meeting of expected performance measures.

The State of Arizona strives for a work culture that affords employees flexibility, autonomy, and trust. Across our many agencies, boards, and commissions, many State employees participate in the State's Remote Work Program and are able to work remotely in their homes, in offices, and in hoteling spaces. All work, including remote work, should be performed within Arizona unless an exception is properly authorized in advance.

Develops innovative solutions and procedures for ADOT Leadership and public stakeholders through high-level reporting and presentations. Establishes planning methodologies and goals for the Department's program.
Partners with the Finance Office to ensure oversight of reports and program expenditure projections. Delivers independent analysis and resolution for budgetary issues.
Oversees the end-to-end accuracy and scheduling of project delivery, serving as the primary lead for record-keeping and continuity of critical program decisions and updates.

Knowledge of:

Project management frameworks for prioritizing high-volume workloads under tight deadlines
Relational databases and statistical techniques for accurate reporting and tracking
Applying strategic decision-making and SME-led problem-solving to evaluate complex data and provide recommendations
Professional judgement and accountability
Skill in:
Executive communication standards for verbal delivery and error-free written correspondence
Using root-cause analysis and systematic methodologies to resolve underlying operational issues
Analytical modeling and root-cause analysis to optimize project performance and operational outcomes
Google Workspace and Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) in design tools such as using root-cause analysis and systematic methodologies to resolve underlying operational issues
Analytical modeling and root-cause analysis to optimize project performance and operational outcomes
Design tools such as Canva, MailChimp, and similar tools
Ability to:

• Lead conflict resolution and sustain high functioning team
  
• Facilitate alignment of ADOT and university-specific  cultural and operational needs 
• Use time management strategies to maintain momentum amid shifting priorities 
• Maximize program scalability by addressing critical operational performance gaps
• Expertise at building professional relationship and delivering high quality technical and administrative reporting

Bachelor of Science in a transportation related field.

Two (2) years experience in transportation field or relevant degree or field.

Any combination of training and experience that meet the knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSA's) may be substituted.

This position requires driving or the use of a vehicle as an essential function of the job, and the following requirements apply. Any employee operating a motor vehicle on State business must possess and retain a current, valid class-appropriate driver's license, complete all required training, and successfully pass all necessary driver's license record checks. The license must be current, unexpired, and neither revoked nor suspended. Employees who drive on state business are subject to driver's license record checks, must maintain acceptable driving records, and must complete all required driver training. An employee who operates a personally owned vehicle on state business shall maintain the statutorily required liability insurance (see Arizona Administrative Code (A.A.C.) R2-10-207.11).

All newly hired State employees are subject to and must successfully complete the Electronic Employment Eligibility Verification Program (E-Verify).

The Arizona Department of Administration offers a comprehensive benefits package to include:
Sick leave
Vacation with 10 paid holidays per year
Paid Parental Leave-Up to 12 weeks per year paid leave for newborn or newly-placed foster/adopted child (pilot program).
Health and dental insurance
Retirement plan
Life insurance and long-term disability insurance
Optional employee benefits include short-term disability insurance, deferred compensation plans, and supplemental life insurance

By providing the option of a full-time or part-time remote work schedule, employees enjoy improved work/life balance, report higher job satisfaction, and are more productive. Remote work is a management option and not an employee entitlement or right. An agency may terminate a remote work agreement at its discretion.

Learn more about the Paid Parental Leave program here. For a complete list of benefits provided by The State of Arizona, please visit our benefits page

Mandatory participation in the Arizona Retirement System (ASRS) is required.

For questions about this career opportunity, please contact ADOT Human Resources Recruitment via email at srecruitment@azdot.gov or phone call at (602) 712-8188 option 2.
The State of Arizona is an Equal Opportunity/Reasonable Accommodation Employer. Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation such as a sign language interpreter or an alternative format by calling (602) 712-8188 option 3. Requests should be made as early as possible to allow sufficient time to arrange the accommodation. ADOT is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.