Project Manager I (Internal Candidates Only)

This position is open to internal candidates only and is designated as hybrid, requiring in-office work an average of 3+ days a week with a set schedule. Managers may require team members to work on the same schedule to encourage collaboration. Rotary requires all employees to live within reasonable daily commuting distance to Evanston, IL.

About the Organization

Rotary is a membership organization that unites people from all continents and cultures to take action and deliver real, long-term solutions to pressing community and global issues. Each year, Rotary members expand networks, build lasting relationships, and invest over $300 million and 16 million volunteer hours to improve lives and create positive change. Employees receive competitive salaries, flexible schedules, comprehensive benefits, and job enrichment in exchange for their dedication to Rotary’s humanitarian service projects.

At Rotary, we foster a welcoming environment where all employees are valued and empowered, dedicated to creating meaningful opportunities and supporting team growth and well-being.

About the Role

The Project Manager I is responsible for managing and coordinating cross-functional, large-scale projects over their complete lifecycle: from concept, initiation, approval, planning, execution, and implementation to transition to production. This role ensures overall client satisfaction, manages client expectations, and leads project teams to successful completion within agreed constraints of time, budget, and specifications.

Responsibilities

• Perform project management processes: initiate, plan, execute, monitor, control, and close projects, including supporting processes (scope, cost, time, issue, risk, resource, communication) and stakeholder management.
• Plan projects based on defined needs and monitor progress to ensure projects remain on track.
• Manage change and report variances to the approved project baseline.
• Close projects to formalize acceptance of results and release resources.
• Interface and communicate with project teams, management, and stakeholders.
• Manage project work and resources to enable successful and timely completion.
• Work within defined governance processes and manage external contracts and suppliers as required.
• Manage project objectives through thorough risk and issue control.
• Ensure quality project standards are met through approved processes, methodologies, and deliverables.
• Identify and document project lessons learned for continuous improvement.
• Request peer advice when needed.

Requirements

• At least one year of project leadership experience.
• Knowledge of standard project management procedures and ability to develop and manage project plans according to Rotary International’s project management framework.
• Experience leading custom-developed solutions.
• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to engage tactfully with all levels of stakeholders.
• High degree of personal integrity, strong work ethic, and proficiency in delivering sustained results in dynamic environments.

Skills

• Strong analytic skills to identify critical paths, key milestones, dependencies, and resource requirements in complex environments.
• Ability to provide objective analysis and assessment of project status, progress, risks, and opportunities to senior management and project teams.
• Proactive risk management and ability to influence others.
• Entrepreneurial drive and adaptability to shifting priorities, demands, and timelines.
• Excellent interpersonal communication skills with a positive and professional attitude.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree.
• Experience working on international projects.
• Experience working with remote project teams.
• Tenure at Rotary International.

Leadership Attributes

• Communication: Open to diverse viewpoints and able to communicate messages universally.
• Presence: Demonstrate composure and confidence.
• Accountability: Clear sense of ownership and personal responsibility for actions.
• Adaptability: Respond to changes willingly and adjust as needed.

Pay

Salary range: $81,900 - $91,000.

Benefits

• Generous medical, dental, and vision benefits package.
• Progressive 401k matching contributions.
• Above-market and generous paid time off package.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• Professional development opportunities.
• On-site cafeteria and coffee bar with special pricing for employees.
• Flextime with several work schedule options.
• Close proximity to CTA, Metra, stores, and food options.