Program Manager II - Diagnostics & Countermeasures Branch

HJF is seeking a Program Manager II to oversee a collection of related/integrated projects that together support a long-term research initiative. This position strategically guides one or more project managers and related technical staff to ensure they are all working effectively toward the program’s stated objectives. The role supports the Diagnostics and Countermeasures Branch (DCB) within the Center of Infectious Disease Research (CIDR) at the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (WRAIR).

About the organization

The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine (HJF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing military medicine. HJF serves military, medical, academic, and government clients by administering, managing, and supporting preeminent scientific programs that benefit members of the armed forces and civilians alike. Since its founding in 1983, HJF has served as a vital link between the military medical community and its federal and private partners.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all activities within DCB’s Program Management Office (PgMO), including personnel management, recruiting actions, onboarding of new HJF personnel, managing HJF travel, purchasing, and administrative activities. Supervise, train, mentor, and evaluate direct reports.
• Work with the Chief of Staff to organize programs and activities in accordance with the mission, goals, and strategic direction of the Branch. Assist in preparing the PgMO annual Strategic Plan, DCB Annual Reports, Progress Reports, Proposals, Contracts/Statement of Work documents, and Gantt Charts.
• Collaborate with other Operations staff to ensure timely completion of all contract deliverables, monitor risk, and develop risk mitigation strategies for overall Branch activities.
• Serve as the liaison between the DCB Operations Office and HJF Recruiting and Human Resources to prepare, submit, and monitor new hiring actions and staff promotions for DCB’s personnel actions. Handle confidential and sensitive information related to personnel hiring.
• Proactively manage and centralize hiring actions, personnel actions, travel, and purchasing under the Operations Office while supporting recruiting efforts and monitoring new hires and staff promotions for DCB.
• Provide regular updates to the Chief of Staff on PgMO projects and short-term/long-term objectives as outlined in the annual PgMO Strategic Plan.
• Oversee new staff processing and orientation requirements for DCB, WRAIR, and HJF. Track completion of all onboarding and termination activities, ensuring all paperwork is complete and submitted.
• Track all service agreements/contracts key to DCB operations, maintain up-to-date records, and ensure timely review and renewal in accordance with DCB requirements. Work closely with the Chief of Staff, Financial Analyst, and Program Manager I to ensure execution of agreements and contracts.
• Oversee Program Manager I activities supporting DCB/HJF employee travel, including domestic and international travel tasks. Guide employees in completing required databases (e.g., Oracle and Alamo) and ensure compliance with HJF travel policy, contract requirements, and per-diem allowances.
• Oversee purchasing within the Operations Office, tracking proper use of cost centers, sole source requests, and expediting orders as required.

Supervisory Responsibilities

• Direct authority to make decisions on employee hiring, disciplinary action, starting salaries, and merit increases.
• Conduct employee performance evaluations and direct work activities.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree preferred in Business Administration or Life Sciences.
• Minimum of 6-8 years of experience as a Program Manager, Project Manager, or equivalent, managing program operations, laboratory operations, and/or projects.
• Ability to monitor timelines, identify risks, and mitigate those risks to meet deadlines.
• Prior experience working with a team to produce quality deliverables for a project or program.
• Previous experience developing and working with budgets is a plus.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work independently, supervise others, and use sound judgment in solving problems.
• Ability to multi-task, coordinate complex systems and projects simultaneously, and interface effectively with staff at all levels.
• Smartsheet experience preferred.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a T1/Public Trust Background Check.

Physical Capabilities

• Lifting: Requires lifting materials up to 10 lbs.
• Ability to stand or sit at a computer for prolonged periods.

Licenses and Certifications

• Project Management Professional (PMP) certification preferred.

Work Environment

This position is primarily office-based and 100% onsite.

Pay

The annual salary range for this position is $77,600–$90,000. Actual salary will be determined based on experience and education.

Benefits

HJF offers a comprehensive suite of benefits focused on health and well-being, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, health savings and retirement plans, and more.