Project Manager

Description Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA) is seeking an organized and collaborative project manager to support a government agency research center in Tallahassee, Florida. This position is embedded within the client’s central office and is responsible for managing a portfolio of applied research projects from initiation through closeout. The project manager will coordinate with internal teams, end-users, and external stakeholders to keep projects on schedule, ensure deliverables meet quality standards, and support the dissemination of results. The role requires a balance of strong project management discipline, clear communication skills, and familiarity with knowledge and technology transfer principles. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Project Management Manage a portfolio of concurrent applied research projects, tracking scope, schedule, budget, and deliverable status across the full project lifecycle. Develop and maintain project plans, timelines, and milestone schedules in coordination with research staff, client representatives, and partner organizations. Facilitate regular project meetings, prepare agendas, document decisions, and track action items to ensure follow-through. Identify and elevate risks, issues, and implementation barriers, and support the development of mitigation strategies. Coordinate with end-users and stakeholders to support the planning and execution of pilot and demonstration activities. Stakeholder Coordination & Communication Serve as a primary point of contact for project stakeholders, maintaining clear and consistent communication throughout the project lifecycle. Facilitate collaboration among research teams, client staff, partner organizations, and field personnel. Organize and lead stakeholder meetings, workshops, site visits, and coordination calls. Prepare and deliver status reports, briefings, and presentations for internal leadership and external audiences. Knowledge & Technology Transfer Support Support the facilitation of knowledge and technology transfer (T2) activities to help research results reach intended end-users and practitioners. Assist in coordinating outreach efforts including workshops, webinars, conferences, and agency publications to advance awareness and adoption of research outcomes. Contribute to the development of implementation guides, fact sheets, and other materials that translate technical findings into accessible, actionable content. Coordinate with communications and program staff to align project outputs with broader dissemination efforts. Documentation & Reporting Maintain organized project files, records, and documentation in accordance with established program standards. Collect, compile, and analyze project data to support performance reporting and program dashboards. Document project outcomes, lessons learned, and best practices to support institutional knowledge and continuous improvement. Contribute to final project deliverables, closeout packages, and performance summaries for client review. EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS Minimum Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Project Management, Business Administration, Public Administration, Communications, or a related field Minimum of 3–5 years of professional experience in project management, program coordination, or a closely related role Demonstrated ability to manage multiple concurrent projects with competing priorities and deadlines Experience with stakeholder engagement, meeting facilitation, and technical writing Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex information clearly to varied audiences Proficiency with project management tools, collaboration platforms, and standard office productivity software Preferred Qualifications Master’s degree in a related field; PMP or equivalent project management certification a plus Experience working with or supporting a government agency, research organization, or public‑sector client Familiarity with knowledge transfer and research implementation principles and practices Experience supporting pilot, demonstration, or field deployment projects Knowledge of program performance measurement, reporting frameworks, and data visualization tools Ability to develop accessible communication materials that translate technical subject matter for non‑technical audiences ABOUT ARA ARA is a 100% employee‑owned company delivering high‑quality research, analysis, and engineering solutions to government and private‑sector clients nationwide. ARA is committed to fostering innovation, professional development, and a collaborative work environment. We offer competitive compensation, excellent benefits, and the opportunity to contribute to meaningful public‑sector work. Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights ( notice from the Department of Labor. #J-18808-Ljbffr