Project Manager

Full time Regular Employment at W. M. Keck Observatory

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Summary

Do you have a passion for guiding projects from concept to completion? Do you enjoy measuring project success and working toward greater refinement in each successive project? Are you excited to make a significant impact in a dynamic and forward-thinking workplace? If this sounds like you, join us today as a Project Manager.

A Day in the Life of a Project Manager:

The Project Manager plays a crucial role in advancing technical projects within the framework of the W. M. Keck Observatory’s (WMKO) objectives, mission, vision, and values. Reporting to the Chief Engineer, the Project Manager operates autonomously, leading project planning, status meetings, and reviews. For projects assigned, the Project Manager has direct responsibility and accountability for the overall project schedule, cost, and deliverables. As a key member of the Operations department, the Project Manager focuses on coordinating resources for staff projects, communicating with a variety of internal departments and external interested parties.

The principal activities of this role encompass project planning, tracking, reporting, and risk management. The Project Manager establishes key performance indicators and metrics to measure project success and help improve future projects. Responsibilities include implementing a budget, collaborating with procurement to identify potential vendors and manage vendor contracts, guiding projects through completion, and working with leadership to assign staff to projects.

Requirements

Education

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical, electrical, optical engineering or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Experience

• Five (5) years of project management experience, preferably in technical or engineering environments.
• Demonstrated experience in creating and devising budgets, schedules and critical path analysis, project tracking and reporting.
• Hands-on experience supporting systems engineering best practices.

Skills

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and project management tools (e.g., MS Project).
• Strong technical and problem-solving skills to support systems engineering and project management.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and build collaborative relationships.

Certificates and Licenses

• Valid driver’s license.

Additional Information

Why Choose W. M. Keck Observatory:

• Competitive starting salary ranging from $106,779 to $129,799.
• Generous benefits package, including 4 weeks of annual paid vacation.
• A robust 8% 403(b) employer contribution (with a 4% employee contribution).
• Tuition assistance for dependent children grades K-12 attending private school on Hawai’i Island.
• Comprehensive, employer provided health insurance.
• Be a part of a dedicated team working on the frontiers of astronomy.

About W. M. Keck Observatory:

With acknowledgment and profound respect for the cultural, ecological, and scientific significance of Maunakea, W. M. Keck Observatory offers astronomers a unique vantage point to explore the universe. Our twin telescopes are at the forefront of astronomical discovery, offering transformative insights into the cosmos. We are dedicated to service, stewardship, and our community, all while advancing our mission to unlock the mysteries of the universe. Join us in this endeavor!

About W. M. Keck Observatory