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Sbir Project Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mechanical Engineer

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$115K - $150K/yr

SBIR has built its reputation as a fast-paced, innovative company that provides highly engineered ... Partner with project managers, system engineers, vendors, and production staff to support ...

Buyer/Planner II

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$75K - $105K/yr

SBIR's broad line of innovative products support testing of military and commercial sensor systems ... Manages supply chain projects with limited supervision. * Represent the Materials team in ECO ...

Develop SBIR success stories that highlight technology maturation, Phase III transitions ... Strong project management and coordination skills across multiple stakeholder groups. The Evans ...

Sr. Mechanical Engineer

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$145K - $195K/yr

SBIR has built its reputation as a fast-paced, innovative company that provides highly engineered ... Partner with project managers, system engineers, vendors, and production staff to support ...

Sr. Mechanical Engineer

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$145K - $195K/yr

SBIR has built its reputation as a fast-paced, innovative company that provides highly engineered ... Partner with project managers, system engineers, vendors, and production staff to support ...

SBIR has built its reputation as a fast-paced, innovative company that provides highly engineered ... Partner with project managers, system engineers, vendors, and production staff to support ...

Buyer/Planner II

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$75K - $105K/yr

SBIR's broad line of innovative products support testing of military and commercial sensor systems ... Manages supply chain projects with limited supervision. * Represent the Materials team in ECO ...

Buyer/Planner II

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$75K - $105K/yr

SBIR's broad line of innovative products support testing of military and commercial sensor systems ... Manages supply chain projects with limited supervision. * Represent the Materials team in ECO ...

Sr. Program Manager

Washington, DC · Hybrid

$131K - $131K/yr

We are seeking someone to lead all contract-level activities for the SBIR/STTR/RIF Program ... program/project management preferably within DoD or federal government space. * Demonstrated ...

Sr. Program Manager

Washington, DC · On-site

$131K - $131K/yr

We are seeking someone to lead all contract-level activities for the SBIR/STTR/RIF Program ... program/project management preferably within DoD or federal government space. * Demonstrated ...

Sr. Program Manager

Washington, DC · On-site

$131K - $131K/yr

We are seeking someone to lead all contract-level activities for the SBIR/STTR/RIF Program ... program/project management preferably within DoD or federal government space. * Demonstrated ...

Showing results 41-60

Sbir Project Manager information

See salary details

$38.5K

$102.7K

$162K

How much do sbir project manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for sbir project manager in the United States is $102,682.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,500.00 and $123,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an SBIR project manager?

An SBIR Project Manager oversees projects funded by the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program. Their role involves coordinating research and development activities, managing budgets, ensuring compliance with program requirements, and communicating with stakeholders. They help guide small businesses through the proposal, development, and commercialization phases, ensuring that milestones are met on time and within scope. Effective SBIR Project Managers possess strong organizational and communication skills, as well as knowledge of federal grant processes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an SBIR project manager?

To thrive as an SBIR Project Manager, you need a solid understanding of project management principles, grant administration, and knowledge of the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program, often supported by a degree in business, engineering, or science. Proficiency with project management software (like MS Project), budgeting tools, and familiarity with federal grant platforms such as Grants.gov is typically required. Strong communication, organizational, and leadership skills are essential for coordinating teams, stakeholders, and reporting requirements. These skills ensure the successful planning, execution, and compliance of SBIR projects, maximizing funding opportunities and project outcomes.

What are some common challenges faced by SBIR project managers when coordinating research teams and external partners?

SBIR Project Managers often navigate the unique challenge of aligning academic researchers, small business staff, and sometimes government stakeholders toward shared project goals. Balancing differing work cultures and timelines while ensuring compliance with SBIR program requirements can be demanding. Effective communication and organization are key, as managers must track milestones, manage budgets, and submit timely reports. Building strong relationships and maintaining open channels with all collaborators helps in mitigating misunderstandings and keeping the project on track.

What is the difference between Sbir Project Manager vs Research Project Coordinator?

AspectSbir Project ManagerResearch Project Coordinator
CredentialsTypically requires project management certifications and relevant experienceOften requires research experience and academic credentials
Work EnvironmentManages projects within government or private sector SBIR programsSupports research projects, often in academic or research institutions
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, private companies involved in SBIR fundingUniversities, research institutes, or corporate R&D departments

The Sbir Project Manager focuses on overseeing SBIR projects, ensuring compliance, and managing budgets, while the Research Project Coordinator supports research activities and assists in project logistics. Both roles require strong organizational skills, but the Project Manager emphasizes project execution and management, whereas the Coordinator concentrates on research support and coordination.

What are popular job titles related to Sbir Project Manager jobs?

For Sbir Project Manager jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Sbir Project Manager job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 88% In-person, 2% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,682 per year, or $49.4 per hour.

Mechanical Engineer

Santa Barbara, CA • On-site

$115K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Mechanical Engineer

Santa Barbara Infrared, Inc. (SBIR) - Santa Barbara, CA

About Us

Santa Barbara Infrared, Inc. (SBIR), a subsidiary of HEICO Corporation (NYSE: HEI, HEI.A), designs and manufactures advanced infrared (IR) and electro-optical (E-O) test instrumentation used worldwide. Our products support the testing of military and commercial sensor systems in laboratory, production, depot, and field environments. SBIR has built its reputation as a fast-paced, innovative company that provides highly engineered, cost-effective solutions to the aerospace and defense community.

Role Summary

We are seeking a Mechanical Engineer to design, develop, and test precision mechanical systems for IR test equipment. In this role, you'll create and refine designs, support product integration, and collaborate with cross-disciplinary teams to deliver reliable, high-performance solutions. Your work will directly impact the performance of next-generation optical test systems used by global aerospace and defense leaders. This is a hands-on, on-site role in Santa Barbara, CA.

$115,000/yr. to $150,000/yr., DOE

On-Site

Responsibilities

  • Own the complete lifecycle of IR and E-O hardware including design, development, and testing of mechanical systems and precision optical mounts/mechanisms.
  • Create hardware designs suitable for high mix, low volume production (CNC, sheet metal, AM, etc.) while adhering to budgetary, schedule, and customer requirements.
  • Partner with project managers, system engineers, vendors, and production staff to support manufacturing and rapidly implement performance, reliability, and quality improvements.
  • Create and maintain detailed design documentation, including fabrication/assembly drawings, BOMs, and Interface Control Documents (ICDs).

Qualifications

Required

  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent.
  • 5+ years of related experience.
  • Proficiency with CAD (SolidWorks Preferred) and solid knowledge of GD&T (ASME Y14.5) and tolerance stack-ups.
  • Demonstrated experience owning designs through full lifecycle, applicable to high-complexity, low-volume manufacturing.
  • Ability to work independently and in collaborative, team-oriented environments.
  • Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Preferred

  • Familiarity with Engineering Change Processes (ECOs), revision control, and product data management (PDM/PLM) systems.
  • Experience with Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and/or thermal modeling/simulation.
  • Background in optical systems, vacuum Dewar design, or electro-mechanical packaging.
  • Hands-on experience with precision mechanisms, assemblies, or test fixtures.

Additional Information

Due to US Export Control Regulations compliance, eligible candidates MUST be a US citizen, permanent resident or a person who has been granted asylum; proper documentation required. Pre-employment verifications: must pass background, reference and ITAR/EAR checks in addition to a pre-employment drug screen.

Benefits

We offer a comprehensive package including medical, dental, vision, 401(k), PTO, HSA, FSA, 9/80 alternate work week schedule, LTD, life insurance, and more.

Equal Opportunity

SBIR is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer (Male/Female/Veteran/Disabled).