Senior Program Manager, AIR Opportunity Fund

American Institutes for Research

. Manage assigned components of programmatic initiatives from planning through implementation and evaluation under portfolio manager and director direction .

Posted 11/11/2026full-timeRemote • United StatesSenior💰 $130,000 - $145,000 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in managing programmatic initiatives, grantmaking, and applied research within the fields of workforce and economic opportunity, health, and youth pathways. Proven ability to synthesize research findings and engage with diverse stakeholders to inform funding decisions and program strategies.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Master's Degree In Public PolicyApplied Research ExperienceGrantmaking ExperienceProject And Program Management SkillsStrong Research And Analytical Skills

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Program ManagementGrant Proposal ReviewData-Driven ApproachesEnvironmental ScansFunding RecommendationsMonitoring Grant PerformanceSynthesis Of Research FindingsStakeholder EngagementLandscape AnalysesDue Diligence

Soft Skills

Effective Public SpeakingRelationship ManagementCritical ThinkingInterpersonal SkillsInfluencing Skills

Industry Keywords

PhilanthropySocial Impact InvestingCommunity DevelopmentNonprofit ManagementWorkforce DevelopmentEconomic OpportunityYouth PathwaysCross-Sector PartnershipsCommunity-Based OrganizationsPolicy Landscapes

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Manage assigned components of programmatic initiatives from planning through implementation and evaluation under portfolio manager and director direction
Represent the Fund at conferences, community meetings, and field-based events within the assigned region and nationally as needed
Manage multiple projects and workstreams and ensure timely completion of deliverables
Conduct research, landscape analyses, and environmental scans to inform funding decisions, program priorities, and new initiatives
Synthesize research findings, field insights, and grantee learnings into reports, briefings, and presentations
Manage relationships with grantees, community organizations, researchers, and other stakeholders
Coordinate meetings, convenings, site visits, and stakeholder engagement activities
Contribute subject-matter knowledge in workforce and economic opportunity, health, and/or youth pathways
Review grant proposals, conduct due diligence, and develop funding recommendations
Monitor grant and program performance, track outcomes, and identify learning and improvement opportunities
Collaborate with AIR researchers, subject matter experts, and operational staff
Steward existing grants and partnerships, monitor progress, and support implementation and learning activities

Requirements

What you’ll need

Master's degree in public policy, public health, social sciences, education, nonprofit management, community development, or a related field
Minimum of seven years of professional experience including both applied research and philanthropy, grantmaking, social impact investing, or related funding experience
Subject matter expertise in workforce and economic opportunity, health, and/or youth pathways
Knowledge of communities, organizations, and policy or funding landscapes in the regions served, particularly the Deep South, Cleveland, Chicago, and/or Washington, DC region
Experience using research, evaluation, or data-driven approaches to inform program design, funding decisions, strategy, or organizational learning
Experience managing or supporting grant portfolios, philanthropic initiatives, research projects, or community-based programs
Experience working with community-based organizations, research institutions, public agencies, philanthropic organizations, or cross-sector partnerships
Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously while producing high-quality work
Strong research, analytical, and critical thinking skills
Effective public speaking, presentation, and communication skills
Strong interpersonal, relationship-management, and influencing skills
Advanced project and program management skills, including leading complex initiatives
Ability to work independently and collaboratively
Willingness to travel nationally as needed
Must be currently authorized to work in the U.S. on a full-time basis
Employment-based visa sponsorship, including H-1B sponsorship, is not available
May need to meet certain residency requirements depending on project work
Selected candidates must undergo reference and background checks
Must adhere to AIR's child safeguarding standards and principles

Benefits

Comp & perks

AIR’s Total Rewards Program
Remote work within the United States or from one of AIR’s U.S. office locations
Travel to AIR Opportunity Fund events expected up to 30%
Equal employment opportunity/affirmative action employment practices
Reference and background checks for selected candidates
Drug-free work environment