What are the responsibilities and job description for the Project Manager position at Parallax Advanced Research?
Project Manager
Do you have an interest in growth in programs and helping small businesses? Do you want to grow with a company that has the same passion? Do you enjoy reaching goals and being a part of a high-performing research team?
Parallax Advanced Research is a 501(c)(3) private nonprofit research institute based in Dayton, Ohio. We’ve been recognized as Dayton's Business of the Year and have received multiple accolades, including being named one of Dayton's "Best Places to Work", winning three Gold Stevie Awards for Organization of the Year (Medium Non-Profit), Government Sales and Customer Service, and Achievement in Science/Technology for Data Abyss, and recipient of the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Above and Beyond Award.
We operate our mission nationally, which is to deliver innovative research and provide technology, human, and business solutions via The Science of Intelligent Teaming™ for government, industry, and academic clients with critical challenges. Our vision is to advance the Nation's innovation advantage through our work. Our services include advanced research in the areas of artificial intelligence, autonomy, human machine teaming, and unmanned aerial systems. We also manage a suite of entrepreneurial-focused networks, including the Ohio Federal Research Network and Launch Dayton program. In 2023, the 501(c)(3) private nonprofit research institute Ohio Aerospace Institute (OAI) became wholly affiliated with Parallax, expanding our organization's services to include space and aerospace advanced technology research and development and workforce development.
The Project Manager plays a critical role in supporting the Defense Innovation OnRamp Hub: Ohio, an initiative dedicated to strengthening the Defense Industrial Base through collaboration with mission partners, academia, small businesses, venture, industry, and the Department of Defense (DoD). Operating from the Arcade Innovation Hub in Dayton, Ohio, the OnRamp Hub provides a dynamic environment for mission-focused problem-solving, technology evaluation, and expanding engagement opportunities within the defense innovation ecosystem. Guided by our core values, the PM will be a force multiplier, driving impact by expanding opportunities for stakeholders to engage with DoD innovation initiatives. This role requires project management expertise, strategic collaboration, and a problem-solving mindset to advance national security innovation in Ohio and beyond.
Do you have an interest in growth in programs and helping small businesses? Do you want to grow with a company that has the same passion? Do you enjoy reaching goals and being a part of a high-performing research team?
Parallax Advanced Research is a 501(c)(3) private nonprofit research institute based in Dayton, Ohio. We’ve been recognized as Dayton's Business of the Year and have received multiple accolades, including being named one of Dayton's "Best Places to Work", winning three Gold Stevie Awards for Organization of the Year (Medium Non-Profit), Government Sales and Customer Service, and Achievement in Science/Technology for Data Abyss, and recipient of the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Above and Beyond Award.
We operate our mission nationally, which is to deliver innovative research and provide technology, human, and business solutions via The Science of Intelligent Teaming™ for government, industry, and academic clients with critical challenges. Our vision is to advance the Nation's innovation advantage through our work. Our services include advanced research in the areas of artificial intelligence, autonomy, human machine teaming, and unmanned aerial systems. We also manage a suite of entrepreneurial-focused networks, including the Ohio Federal Research Network and Launch Dayton program. In 2023, the 501(c)(3) private nonprofit research institute Ohio Aerospace Institute (OAI) became wholly affiliated with Parallax, expanding our organization's services to include space and aerospace advanced technology research and development and workforce development.
The Project Manager plays a critical role in supporting the Defense Innovation OnRamp Hub: Ohio, an initiative dedicated to strengthening the Defense Industrial Base through collaboration with mission partners, academia, small businesses, venture, industry, and the Department of Defense (DoD). Operating from the Arcade Innovation Hub in Dayton, Ohio, the OnRamp Hub provides a dynamic environment for mission-focused problem-solving, technology evaluation, and expanding engagement opportunities within the defense innovation ecosystem. Guided by our core values, the PM will be a force multiplier, driving impact by expanding opportunities for stakeholders to engage with DoD innovation initiatives. This role requires project management expertise, strategic collaboration, and a problem-solving mindset to advance national security innovation in Ohio and beyond.
In addition to that, a typical day-in-the-life of a Parallax Project Manager includes:
- Apply project management skills to track milestones, deadlines, and deliverables, ensuring mission success
- Identify and implement process improvements that enhance program execution and impact
- Lead briefings for internal and external stakeholders to increase awareness and participation in the OnRamp Hub’s initiatives
- Coordinate with internal teams to collect and analyze data for reporting and event execution
- Support the development of reports and presentations that effectively communicate results to leadership and stakeholders. Build partnerships with Ohio-based companies interested in working with the DoD, creating opportunities for collaboration
- Work directly with DoD stakeholders to scope challenges and identify innovative solutions
- Engage with statewide ecosystem partners to expand opportunities for engagement within the defense sector
- Lead team meetings, manage reporting requirements, and approve invoices with transparency and accountability
- Represent the program in division coordination and leadership meetings, ensuring the Hub’s objectives align with broader organizational goals
- Maintain compliance with contract and reporting requirements, upholding the highest ethical standards
Ideally, you are looking for your next long-term challenge and have these skill?
- Bachelor’s (BA/BS) or Master’s (MA/MS) degree required.
- At least 3 years of relevant work experience in program or project management within defense, government, technology, or innovation sectors.
- Ability to analyze data and generate actionable insights, including familiarity with performance metrics and impact assessment.
- Proficiency in project management tools like Microsoft Project, Asana, Smartsheet, or other project management software.
- Proven experience working in cross-functional teams, fostering open communication, and driving shared goals.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including experience preparing reports, presentations, and stakeholder briefings.
- Comfort working in a fast-paced, evolving environment, balancing long-term planning with immediate execution needs.
- Strong task scheduling and resource management skills to ensure efficient project execution.
Furthermore, do you have, or want to develop these skills?
- Proven experience managing complex projects with multiple stakeholders, including government agencies, businesses, and academia.
- Experience in contract management and compliance, particularly with government contracts.
- Experience with budgeting, financial oversight, and cost control in program or project execution.
- PMP (Project Management Professional) or PgMP (Program Management Professional) certification.
- Experience working with DoD organizations such as AFWERX, DIU, NSIN, or other defense innovation entities.
- Knowledge of technology commercialization processes, including Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs), dual-use technology, or venture-backed startups.
- Understanding of defense acquisition FAR and Non-FAR pathways and the SBIR/STTR process.
- Experience in ecosystem building, especially within the defense industrial base, venture capital, or innovation accelerators.
- Proven experience leading teams and managing projects with high-level leadership and organizational skills.
- Ability to motivate and guide teams to achieve project goals while fostering a collaborative environment.
- Experience in risk management, conflict resolution, and problem-solving in complex projects.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance (Secret or above).
Parallax Advanced Research will help you reach your goals by offering:
- Competitive salary with annual reviews.
- Health, dental, and vision coverage.
- Employer-paid Life insurance, STD, and LTD.
- Roth post-tax 401(K) and/or pre-tax with a generous monthly company match, and yearly employer contribution.
- Education Assistance: employee’s tuition is 100% covered, in addition, we cover 80% of our employee’s dependent’s tuition.
- Working from home opportunities for some positions.
- PTO time, regular paid holidays, and flex paid holidays.
- Paid Military Leave, Paid Maternity, and Paternity leave, FMLA coverage for extended paid and unpaid leave, STD, LTD, and flexible hours.
- Annual PTO sell-back.
