Program/Project Manager I

The Secure Energy Institute (SEI) at Kansas State University is seeking a highly organized, detail-oriented, and proactive Program/Project Manager I to support the institute's mission of leading the advancement of energy security by developing affordable, accessible, reliable, and resilient energy solutions, integrating advanced nuclear technologies with complementary power sources. This position plays a critical role in coordinating institute operations, managing events and stakeholder engagement activities, supporting communications and outreach efforts, and assisting with budget and administrative processes.

The successful candidate will serve as a key point of contact for faculty, university administrators, corporate partners and external stakeholders while helping to build strategic connections that expand the Institute's impact across Kansas and beyond.
Key Responsibilities
Event Planning and Program Coordination
* Independently plan, coordinate, and execute SEI-sponsored events, workshops, conferences, meetings, and outreach activities.
* Develop and manage project plans, timelines, schedules, registration systems, and event logistics to ensure successful delivery of objectives and exceptional participant experiences.
* Prepare event materials, presentations, reports, agendas and supporting documentation.
* Coordinate in-state and out-of-state travel arrangements, including transportation, lodging, conference registrations, and detailed travel itineraries.
Communications and Outreach
* Maintain and enhance the Institute's website and social media platforms to support engagement, outreach, and participation.
* Create, edit, proofread, and distribute written and electronic communications, publications, reports, presentations, event flyers, and promotional materials.
* Assist in building strategic partnerships and connections that strengthen the Institute's visibility and impact.
Data Management and Reporting
* Design and maintain systems for tracking event participation, engagement metrics, and program outcomes.
* Analyze participation and engagement data and prepare reports to support leadership decision-making and strategic planning.
* Develop and implement processes for tracking faculty and researcher SEED grant applications, ensuring accurate data collection, monitoring, and reporting.
Budget and Financial Administration
* Coordinate event-related expenditures, including venue rentals, catering, travel expenses, and operational expenses.
* Ensure expenditures are allocated to appropriate funding sources and comply with university policies and guidelines.
* Process invoices and coordinate payment activities to ensure timely and accurate financial transactions.
* Work closely with the Director to monitor budgets, track expenditures, and provide recommendations regarding resource utilization and event planning.
Stakeholder Relations and Administrative Support
* Serve as a primary point of contact for Institute activities and inquiries.
* Build and maintain productive working relationships with university leadership, faculty, researchers, corporate partners, government agencies, and community stakeholders.
* Provide recommendations to Institute leadership regarding operational improvements, event planning, and program initiatives.
* Identify and implement process improvements that increase operational efficiency and effectiveness.

The Carl R. Ice College of Engineering is dedicated to driving innovation and preparing the next generation of technological leaders. With 15 undergraduate, 11 master's and 8 doctoral degree programs, the college is meeting growing demand for skilled professionals and advancing knowledge to benefit society. As a premier institution, our mission is to educate and empower students to tackle the challenges of an ever-evolving world. Learn more at https://engg.k-state.edu/ .

The Secure Energy Institute at Kansas State University is building a new model for solving real-world energy challenges across Kansas and the Great Plains. Our work brings together advanced nuclear systems, resilient grid infrastructure, distributed energy solutions, and energy manufacturing to create deployable, community-centered systems. We integrate cutting-edge digital engineering and workforce development with strong partnerships across industry, government, and local communities. By focusing on implementation, scalability, and regional impact, the Institute is positioning Kansas as a national leader in secure energy systems.

This position is Hybrid eligible. It is expected that this position will require at least 20 hours per week on site. Hybrid arrangements may be negotiated depending on specific circumstances. All remote work must be performed in the United States. On-site participation will be generally required to support events and meetings. The employee's specific circumstances will be considered when scheduling these events and meetings to facilitate on-site presence. Other than IT equipment, the employee must procure all necessary equipment, materials, supplies, and services required to perform duties off-site.

All employees must reside in the United States when they begin working to comply with state law. K-State is unable to provide remote or hybrid work opportunities for residents of the state of Idaho.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Requires a high school diploma (or equivalent) and seven years of relevant experience. Requirements may be met through a combination of work experience and education.
• Valid driver's license.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree
• At least 5 years of experience in a position that involves event organizing and project execution.
• Experience with K-State Extension and outreach activities.
• Experience with marketing/graphic design software.
• Experience with K-State's enterprise IT and purchasing systems.

Sponsorship eligibility:

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship.

Please submit the following documents:

• Resume
• Letter of interest
• Contact information for three professional references

Applications close on: July 15, 2026

$60,000-$70,000