Program Manager – Government Programs

American Bureau of Shipping (ABS)

. Serve as the primary point of contact for clients on assigned programs .

Posted 10/9/2026full-timeHouston • Texas • United StatesMid-LevelSeniorWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in program management, client communication, and compliance with contractual requirements, while effectively managing cross-functional teams and projects. Possesses strong analytical and strategic thinking skills to drive results and ensure customer satisfaction.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Program ManagementClient CommunicationCross-Functional Project ManagementRisk ManagementCompliance with ABS Principles

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Project Management MethodologyFinancial ManagementContract ManagementBusiness DevelopmentTechnical Report PreparationCompliance ReviewStakeholder ManagementMultitaskingProblem-SolvingAnalytical Thinking

Soft Skills

LeadershipExcellent CommunicationClient-Facing SkillsOwnershipEthical Business Practices

Certifications & Qualifications

Security Clearance (Preferred)ITAR Compliance (Required)

Industry Keywords

Marine IndustryABS Business ModelABS RulesHealth, Safety, Quality and Environmental Management SystemU.S. Government Programs

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Serve as the primary point of contact for clients on assigned programs
Liaise between clients and ABS departments
Review bids and proposals for compliance with company policy and customer solicitation requirements
Lead day-to-day execution of assigned projects and programs
Coordinate internal functional departments to maintain transparency, customer satisfaction, and compliance
Oversee cost, schedule, performance, contractual requirements, resources, financial controls, risks, and mitigation actions
Manage risks and issues and direct corrective measures
Manage programs from contract or project award through completion
Participate in Program Management Reviews and communicate achievements, challenges, and progress
Manage stakeholder communications and prepare management updates
Prepare technically accurate and timely project or program reports
Manage project documentation according to contractual requirements
Ensure invoices are prepared and issued on time according to contract terms
Monitor technical, business, and management developments affecting customers
Submit time records, expense reports, and invoice approvals according to company and contract procedures
Review and influence projects to ensure compliance with company quality requirements
Perform on-site client visits as necessary
Provide direction to professional or technical staff on contractual matters
Identify contract issues and develop innovative solutions
Support business development, client management, and contract management activities as needed
Report directly to a Portfolio Manager, Director, or Vice President

Requirements

What you’ll need

Typically requires a bachelor’s degree in engineering or a relevant discipline
At least 3 years of experience in the marine industry or related industry
At least two (2) to five (5) years of industry experience with a significant understanding of the ABS business model and demonstrated experience in managing cross-functional projects preferred
Fluency in spoken and written English for detailed business and technical communication
Knowledge of project management methodology and techniques
Ability to multitask and manage a portfolio of cross-functional programs and projects
Proven track record of taking ownership and driving results
Demonstrated leadership across varied organizations, management levels, cultures, and personalities
Understanding of financial aspects of approved business plans and budgets
Strategic and analytical thinking, investigation of business drivers, problem-solving, and decision-making skills
Excellent business judgment
Commitment to ethical business practices and compliance with ABS principles and policies
Excellent group and client-facing communication skills
Ability to develop working knowledge of ABS Rules, Guides, statutory regulations, and related instructions
Working knowledge of the ABS Employee Safety Policy
Understanding of the ABS business model and experience managing cross-functional projects
Working knowledge of the ABS Health, Safety, Quality and Environmental Management System
For U.S. Government Programs, must be a U.S. citizen or ITAR compliant
Preferred to possess or be able to obtain a security clearance for supported programs

Benefits

Comp & perks

Medical insurance (PPO and HD)
Dental and vision insurance
Health Savings Account (HSA)
Flexible Savings Account (FSA)
Life insurance
Accidental death and dismemberment insurance
Disability leave programs
Parental leave program
Paid holidays
Paid vacation time
Employee Assistance Plan (EAP) with personal wellness and work-life services
401K plan with a generous company match, subject to plan requirements