The Project Manager is responsible for the operational management of research projects. This role manages the day-to-day execution of project tasks, ensuring timelines are met, budgets are respected, and the project runs smoothly. The PM works closely with internal teams (Research Analyst, data processing, and programming) and supports the Research Lead by coordinating operational details, handling risk management, and ensuring high-quality delivery.

Responsibilities:

Project Coordination:
- Manages the project timeline, ensuring that all stages (e.g., programming, fielding, and reporting) are completed on time and within scope.
- Coordinates with cross-functional teams to execute operational elements of the project efficiently.
- Regularly updates the Research Lead, CS and offshore leadership on project progress, risks, and solutions.

Risk Management & Problem Solving:
- Identifies potential risks to the project’s timeline, scope, or budget and proactively develops risk mitigation plans.
- Escalates issues when necessary and proposes solutions to keep the project on track.

Operational Efficiency:
- Builds and maintains comprehensive project schedules, updating regularly to ensure smooth operations.
- Looks for efficiencies within the day-to-day running of projects, suggesting improvements where needed.
- Ensures that all operational tasks (e.g., programming, data processing) are executed according to best practices and quality standards.

Quality Assurance:
- Ensures that all deliverables (such as surveys, data outputs, and reports) are completed with a high standard of quality.
- Works closely with analysts to oversee the technical aspects of projects, including programming, testing, and data processing.

Documentation & Communication:
- Actively participates in project meetings, documenting discussions, action items, and next steps.
- Maintains thorough documentation for project handoffs between teams and ensures clear communication between all stakeholders.

Skills/Behaviors Required:

Operational Ownership & Accountability:
- Demonstrates a strong sense of ownership for the operational elements of projects, ensuring timelines, quality, and budgets are met.
- Takes accountability for the day-to-day execution of project tasks and operational deliverables.

Project Management Expertise:
- Strong project management skills, including timeline management, task prioritization, and risk mitigation.
- Comfortable managing complex projects across multiple teams and geographies.

- Comfortable managing field/Data collection and drive sample management.

Collaborative Team Player:
- Works effectively with internal teams ( data processing, programming and reporting) and is comfortable providing operational updates on client calls as needed.
- Acts as a liaison between the Research Lead and internal teams, ensuring alignment and smooth handoff of tasks.

Problem-Solving & Communication:
- Excellent problem-solving skills, able to identify potential issues and offer solutions early in the project cycle.
- Strong communication skills, capable of keeping all stakeholders informed about project status, risks, and needs.

Adaptability & Flexibility:
- Comfortable handling multiple projects with shifting priorities, environments, and deadlines.
- Able to adjust plans quickly in response to changing client needs or project conditions.