Program Manager

Job Title

This position supports the Sr. AVP of Research and provides programmatic leadership and operational support for strategic initiatives, institutional programs, and special projects within the USF Health Office of Research.

Job Description

Manage and coordinate strategic projects and initiatives supporting the research mission of the Morsani College of Medicine and USF Health. Lead program planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of special initiatives as assigned by senior leadership. Develop project plans, timelines, milestones, and performance metrics to ensure successful completion of objectives. These include but are not limited to assessment of research faculty, productivity, Institutes and Centers and faculty recruitment.

Analyze operational, financial, and programmatic data to develop recommendations that support strategic decision-making. Collaborate with faculty, administrators, departments, and external partners to advance institutional priorities and research programs. Assist with the development, implementation, interpretation, and continuous improvement of departmental and institutional policies and procedures.

Research and evaluate emerging opportunities, business processes, and organizational needs to support leadership initiatives and program growth.

Develop and maintain collaborative relationships with internal and external partners, representing the Office of Research in a professional manner.

Monitor compliance with university, regulatory, sponsor, and program requirements relevant to assigned research initiatives. Manage confidential and sensitive information with a high degree of discretion and professionalism.

Coordinate the Associate Vice President/Vice Dean's calendar, meeting schedules, and strategic commitments.

Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree and four years experience.

Preferred Qualifications

Program and project management methodologies. Strategic planning and operational assessment. Budget development, financial analysis, and reporting. Data analysis, dashboard development, and performance measurement. Policy development and regulatory compliance. Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel, Power BI, project management tools and the effective application of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies Research administration and academic operations knowledge preferred.

Senate Bill 1310- The Florida Senate (https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2023/1310) is conditional upon meeting all employment eligibility requirements in the U.S. SB 1310: Substitution of Work Experience for Postsecondary Education Requirements A public employer may include a postsecondary degree as a baseline requirement only as an alternative to the number of years of direct experience required, not to exceed:(a) Two years of direct experience for an associate degree;(b) Four years of direct experience for a bachelor's degree;(c) Six years of direct experience for a master's degree;(d) Seven years of direct experience for a professional degree; or(e) Nine years of direct experience for a doctoral degree Related work experience may not substitute for any required licensure, certification, or registration required for the position of employment as established by the public employer and indicated in the advertised description of the position of employment. Minimum Qualifications that require a high school diploma are exempt from SB 1310.

About Us

Working at USF

With approximately 16,000 employees, the University of South Florida is one of the largest employers in the Tampa Bay area. We are dedicated to cultivating a talented, engaged and driven workforce that strives to be bold. Employees excel in USF's rich academic environment, which fosters their development and advancement. In 2025, Forbes recognized USF as one of Florida's best large employers, ranked No. 1 among the state's 12 public universities. Our first-class benefits package includes medical, dental and life insurance plans, retirement plan options, employee and dependent tuition programs, generous leave, and hundreds of employee perks and discounts.

About USF

The University of South Florida is a top-ranked research university serving approximately 50,000 students from across the globe at campuses in Tampa, St. Petersburg, Sarasota-Manatee and USF Health. USF is recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a top 50 public university and the best value in Florida. U.S. News also ranks the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine as the No. 1 medical school in Florida and in the highest tier nationwide. USF is a member of the Association of American Universities (AAU), a group that includes only the top 3% of universities in the U.S. With an all-time high of $738 million in research funding in 2024 and as a top 20 public university for producing U.S. patents, USF uses innovation to transform lives and shape a better future. The university generates an annual economic impact of more than $6 billion. USF's Division I athletics teams compete in the American Athletic Conference. Learn more at www.usf.edu.

Compliance and Federal Notices

This position may be subject to a Level 1 or Level 2 criminal background check.

Applicants have rights under Federal Employment Laws:

The University of South Florida is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on any characteristic protected by law. The University maintains programs for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities in accordance with all applicable federal and state laws.

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

Applicants for USF employment are entitled to request reasonable accommodation(s) in the application process. A request is to be made at least five (5) working days prior to the time the accommodation(s) is needed. Visit the Central Human Resources ADA Accommodations webpage for more information on requesting an accommodation during the application/interview process.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of South Florida is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on any characteristic protected by law. The University maintains affirmative action programs for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities in accordance with all applicable federal and state laws. This job description does not constitute an employment contract.