Program Manager

Program Manager

Summary

SSP International, Inc. (SSPI) is a non-profit organization that is synonymous with excellence in science education. At SSPI, we are guided by a mission to offer students transformational opportunities to learn, do, and belong in science. Since 1959, SSPI’s flagship program, the Summer Science Program, has offered immersive summer research experiences that ignite curiosity and inspire a lifelong passion for discovery. Guided by our mission, SSPI is focused on embracing collaboration, building a lifelong community, and fostering a diverse and inclusive environment where participants, alumni, staff, and stakeholders feel valued, supported, and empowered. With a global network of over 4,300 alumni, we continue to pave the way for the next generation of leaders. More information on our mission, vision, values, and programs can be found at www.ssp.org.

In January 2026, SSPI launched the STEM Learning Institute. The STEM Learning Institute pairs research-based instructional materials—developed in partnership with BSCS Science Learning, an industry leader in inquiry-based instruction for over 65 years—with ongoing professional learning. This model supports educators in refining their instructional practice over time and fosters a strong, collaborative community. Currently, the STEM Learning Institute is implementing a year-long high school introductory chemistry course and professional learning program designed to support teachers and students through relevant, inquiry-driven, and engaging classroom experiences.

The Program Manager will play a central role in the planning, coordination, and execution of STEM Learning Institute initiatives. This individual will manage key programmatic workstreams across curriculum development, educator professional learning, coaching, and field testing—ensuring alignment, efficiency, and high-quality implementation.

Working closely with the Director and cross-functional teams, the Program Manager will drive project execution, anticipate and resolve challenges, and support continuous improvement across the Institute. This role serves as an operational and strategic hub, connecting internal staff, external partners, and participating schools to deliver cohesive and impactful STEM learning experiences.

The ideal candidate is highly organized and proactive, with the ability to manage complex projects, facilitate collaboration, and take ownership of outcomes in a dynamic, evolving environment.

Success in this role includes:

Program execution

• Major project milestones across curriculum development, professional learning, coaching, and field testing are completed on time

• Professional learning events (virtual and in-person) are planned and executed smoothly, on time, and within budget

• Registration, travel, materials, technology, and facilitation logistics are managed with minimal errors or escalations

Program Coordination

• Stakeholder questions and issues are resolved promptly and professionally

• Coordination with research/evaluation teams reduces burden on teachers while maintaining data quality

Documentation development/management

• Project management systems accurately reflect priorities, timelines, and accountability structures

• Program documents and data can be quickly accessed, providing accurate information needed for decisions, reporting, and board updates

• Program budgets are monitored accurately with expenses tracked in real time

Essential Responsibilities

Program & Project Leadership

• Lead day-to-day management of STEM Learning Institute program operations across multiple workstreams, including curriculum development, professional learning, coaching, and field testing.

• Develop and maintain detailed project plans, timelines, and workflows to ensure alignment with program goals and milestones.

• Partner with the Director to translate strategic priorities into actionable plans.

 Event & Experience Leadership

• Lead the planning and execution of in-person and virtual professional learning experiences, ensuring high-quality participant experiences aligned with program goals.

• Oversee logistics including registration, travel, materials, and technology, while also shaping agendas, flow, and participant engagement.

• Coordinate across internal and external stakeholders to ensure seamless delivery of events and follow-through on next steps.

Cross-Team Coordination & Communication

• Serve as a central point of coordination across program staff, collaborators (e.g., BSCS), and participating schools and districts.

• Facilitate effective communication, alignment, and accountability across teams and partners.

• Lead regular check-ins and ensure clarity around roles, responsibilities, and deliverables.

Systems, Documentation & Continuous Improvement

• Establish and maintain systems for tracking deliverables, timelines, and documentation across initiatives.

• Support development of reports and presentations

Operational & Financial Oversight

• Monitor program budgets, track expenses, process teacher stipends and reimbursements, and ensure alignment with financial expectations.

• Support operational planning and resource allocation across program activities.

• Utilize project management tools to drive transparency, accountability, and execution.

Research & Evaluation Coordination

• Coordinate implementation logistics for data collection efforts, including survey administration and communication with participating educators.

• Ensure alignment between program implementation and research/evaluation needs.

Education and Experience

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in education, project management, or related field (or equivalent experience)

• 5+ years of experience managing projects, programs, or operations with increasing responsibility

• Demonstrated ability to lead complex projects involving multiple stakeholders

• Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills

• Experience using project management tools and systems to drive execution

Preferred:

• Experience working with K–12 educators, school systems, or educational nonprofits

• Familiarity with STEM education and/or teacher professional learning

• Experience leading events, workshops, or professional learning experiences

• Comfort working with data, reporting, and continuous improvement processes

Qualifications

• Self-motivated with a demonstrated ability to work independently in a fully remote environment, effectively managing time, prioritizing tasks, and meeting deadlines while staying responsive and communicative.

• Demonstrates commitment to SSPI’s Mission and Values in their daily work and interactions.

Working Conditions

The working conditions described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Constantly operates a computer.

• The ability to observe details at a close range and the ability to adjust focus.

• The ability to communicate information and ideas so others will understand.

• Travel to twice yearly in-person staff meetings and other program related travel.

Clearance Requirements

• Authorization to work in the United States

• Background clearance

Don’t meet every single requirement? Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply for jobs unless they meet every qualification. SSPI values a diverse and inclusive workplace. If you are excited about this role but your experience does not align perfectly with all the qualifications, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or other opportunities.