What is a Project Manager at American Institutes for Research?
A Project Manager at the American Institutes for Research (AIR) plays a pivotal role in bridging the gap between rigorous social science research and real-world impact. Unlike traditional project management roles in pure tech or construction, a Project Manager at AIR is responsible for overseeing complex, multi-disciplinary research, evaluation, and technical assistance projects. These projects directly influence public policy, education, public health, and workforce development both domestically and internationally.
In this role, you will manage the delicate balance of rigorous scientific standards, tight federal and state contract requirements, and diverse stakeholder expectations. You will act as the operational engine of your team, ensuring that high-impact research studies, data collection efforts, and program evaluations are delivered on time, within scope, and on budget. Your work enables researchers and policymakers to make evidence-based decisions that improve lives, making your organizational and strategic leadership highly consequential.
To succeed, a Project Manager at AIR must possess a unique blend of structured project management expertise, client-facing diplomacy, and a strong appreciation for data-driven environments. You will collaborate closely with principal investigators, researchers, data analysts, and external clients (such as government agencies and foundations). This role requires you to translate complex research methodologies into clear, executable project plans, making you a vital driver of the organization's mission to use the best science to solve societal challenges.


