At the National Robotics Engineering Center (NREC), every team
member plays a vital role in our collective success. Our project
managers work closely with leadership, technical experts, and
external sponsors to keep daily operations running smoothly and
complex engineering programs progressing efficiently. Whether
providing technical or operational leadership, coordinating
cross-disciplinary engineering efforts, managing resources, or
delivering critical sponsor milestones, each contribution is vital
to achieving our shared goals.
As part of our versatile team, you will collaborate with
world-class robotics professionals who tackle complex industrial
and government challenges and deploy innovative technologies into
real-world operations. Your efforts will have a direct impact on
both the efficiency of our operations and the meaningful projects
we advance. We foster a culture grounded in integrity, respect, and
collaboration, offering a flexible, supportive environment that
promotes work-life balance and empowers you to take control of your
career development.
We are seeking a dynamic Project Manager to lead cross-functional
engineering teams in taking autonomous systems from early-stage
concept to production and deployment. In this role, you will sit at
the intersection of hardware (mechanical, electrical) and software
(autonomy, ROS, embedded systems, cloud). You will be responsible
for aligning multi-disciplinary teams, managing complex technical
dependencies, and ensuring our robotic systems meet performance,
timeline, and safety standards. This exciting opportunity is ideal
for someone who thrives in a fast-paced, engaging environment. You
will play a vital part in advancing successful projects while
adding new value for our sponsors, licensing NREC and CMU
technologies, and generating follow-on business all while ensuring
our team remains ready and motivated for outstanding results.
Primary responsibilities include:
- Serving as the primary operational contact for sponsors,
translating client requirements into clear work breakdown
structures (WBS) and actionable project milestones
Managing the end-to-end program lifecycle from initial scoping
and prototyping to hardware/software integration, field testing,
and site deployment
Coordinating cross-functional engineering teams across
mechanical, electrical, software (ROS/ROS 2, perception, autonomy),
and system safety disciplines
Developing detailed project schedules, technical milestones,
resource allocations, and long-lead hardware procurement
plans
Balancing traditional stage-gate project controls (EVT/DVT/PVT
milestones, EVM) with rapid, iterative Agile software and hardware
development methods
Preparing and presenting formal project progress reports,
design reviews (PDR/CDR), and milestone demonstrations to internal
leadership and external sponsors
Performing technical risk assessments, maintaining mitigation
plans for hardware delays or software bugs, and ensuring compliance
with field safety protocols
Managing project financial budgets, critical-path dependencies,
scope changes, and resource utilization both internally and
externally
Leading proposal efforts, scope definition, resource
estimating, and statement of work (SOW) drafting for new
initiatives and program extensions
Required Qualifications:
- Master’s degree required, preferably in science, engineering,
or a related field (A combination of education and relevant
experience that demonstrates comparable knowledge and skills may be
considered in lieu of the degree requirement)
- 5+ years of project management experience required in robotics,
autonomous systems, mechatronics, aerospace, or automotive
sectors
- Demonstrated experience leading multi-disciplinary engineering
teams (hardware, software, and systems integration)
- Hands-on experience navigating both fast-paced software
releases and long-lead hardware development cycles
- Proficiency with project management platforms (Jira,
Confluence, Asana, MS Project) and CAD/hardware visualization
tools
- Experience managing DoD or government-sponsored research
projects is desired but not required
- Excellent problem-solving, reasoning, organization, planning,
teamwork, interpersonal, and oral/written communication skills
required
We especially want to hear from you if you have experience in
any of the following areas:
- PMP or Agile/Scrum Certification (CSM, PMI-ACP)
- Experience with ROS / ROS 2 ecosystems, computer vision, or
autonomous navigation systems
- Familiarity with hardware manufacturing phases (EVT, DVT, PVT)
and vendor/supplier management
- Experience deploying field-tested autonomous systems in
commercial, industrial, or warehouse environments
Other Requirements:
- Successful pre-employment background check
This position will require work on a variety of projects,
including projects that involve military/defense applications
and/or are funded by military/defense sponsors.
Are you interested in joining our versatile team at NREC, where you
will play a vital role in operations and contribute to meaningful
projects? Join a collaborative team where you will work with
experts and build your career by supporting the teams that develop
and deploy ground breaking technologies in real-world
operations.
Why NREC?
At NREC, you will help support the robotics revolution by
contributing to projects across multiple fields. Working alongside
top robotics experts, you will help ensure smooth operations and
see the real impact of your contributions in the field.
NREC at a Glance:
- Located in Pittsburgh or “Roboburgh”, a hub for over 120+
robotics companies
- 30+ years of pioneering robotics research
- 150+ professionals driving innovation and real-world
impact
- Part of Carnegie Mellon University’s Robotics Institute,
a global leader in robotics
NREC also leads in educational outreach through its
Robotics
Academy , which develops curricula and software for K–12 and
college-level students. You will also have opportunities to engage
with these student groups through outreach activities.
As part of our team, you will have the flexibility to grow your
career by building expertise, supporting high impact initiatives,
collaborating with others, and contributing as part of a high
performing team - all while enjoying a supportive schedule and
maintaining work/life balance.
Joining the CMU team opens the door to an array of exceptional
benefits.
Benefits eligible employees enjoy a wide array of
benefits including comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and
vision insurance as well as a generous retirement savings program with employer
contributions. Unlock your potential with tuition benefits , take well-deserved breaks with
ample paid time off and observed holidays , and rest easy with life and accidental
death and disability insurance.
Additional perks include a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus
pass, access to our Family Concierge Team to help navigate
childcare needs, fitness center access , and much more!
For a comprehensive overview of the benefits available, explore
our Benefits page .
At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending
offers of employment. Beyond credentials, we evaluate the role and
responsibilities, your valuable work experience, and the knowledge
gained through education and training. We appreciate your unique
skills and the perspective you bring. Your journey with us is about
more than just a job; it’s about finding the perfect fit for your
professional growth and personal aspirations.
Are you interested in an exciting opportunity with an
exceptional organization?! Apply today!
Location
Pittsburgh, PA
Job Function
Program, Project and Operations Management
Position Type
Staff – Regular
Full Time/Part time
Full time
Pay Basis
Salary
More Information:
- Please visit “ Why Carnegie Mellon ” to learn more about
becoming part of an institution inspiring innovations that change
the world.
- Click here to view a listing of employee benefits
- Carnegie Mellon University is an Equal Opportunity
Employer/Disability/Veteran .
- Statement of Assurance
