UPWARDS Program Manager

Job Description The UPWARDS (University Partnership for Workforce Advancement and Research & Development in Semiconductors) program is a large‑scale, multi‑university initiative involving five U.S. and five Japanese partner institutions. The program focuses on advancing semiconductor, microelectronics, and chip research, education, and workforce development, supported by the National Science Foundation (NSF) and industry partners including Micron and Tokyo Electron Limited (TEL). Program Overview UPWARDS IEEE Micro‑credential Program: Development and implementation of modular, industry‑aligned credential programs to enhance workforce readiness in microelectronics, chips, and computing system domains. UPWARDS TechTrek High School Summer Camp: A series of two‑week day camp programs with each session hosting up to 50 high school students, featuring hands‑on laboratory experience in AI, Chip, and Internet of Things (IoT), and exposure to engineering pathways. Year‑round Academic and Workforce Development Activities: Workshops, outreach programs, industry engagement events, and cross‑institutional collaborations with U.S. and Japanese partners. This position is critical to ensuring integration across these components, as well as alignment with sponsors’ reporting requirements and workforce development goals. Key Responsibilities Designing and conducting evaluation on the education and workforce development outcomes. Managing operations for the IEEE Micro‑credential Program, summer camps, and year‑round programming. The role requires close collaboration with faculty leaders, partner universities (U.S. and Japan), industry sponsors, and NSF program leadership, and serves as a key coordination point for program execution and impact assessment. Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree in engineering, education, or related field; or equivalent experience. Experience in program management, research evaluation, or workforce development initiatives. Demonstrated communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills. Ability to manage complex, multi‑stakeholder programs. Preferred Qualifications Master's degree in engineering, education, or related field. Experience in engineering education, STEM outreach, or workforce development programs. Experience with certificate and credential programs (e.g., IEEE micro‑credentials or similar frameworks). Compensation and Work Hours Pay Band : 5 Salary Information : Starting at $35/hour. Overtime Status : Non‑Exempt: Eligible for overtime. Appointment Type : Restricted. Hours per week : 20‑29. Review Date : 7/31/2026. Additional Information The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check. Equal Opportunity Statement Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, ethnicity or national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law. If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Stuart Cline at View email address on click.appcast.io during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event. #J-18808-Ljbffr Virginia Tech