Research Project Manager, School of Labor and Employment Relations
Penn State University
State College, Pennsylvania
Full-Time
$46,522
RemoteManager
Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.
This position is funded for 1 year(s); continuation past 1 year(s) will be based on university need, performance, and/or availability of funding.POSITION SPECIFICS
The School of Labor and Employment Relations (LER) is seeking a Research Project Manager to contribute to a globally recognized Penn State program working at the intersection of data, research, and international collaboration.
The School of LER is home to the Center for International Human Resource Studies (CIHRS), which serves as the coordinating hub for CRANET—a global research collaboration spanning 40+ countries.
Together, CIHRS and CRANET lead one of the most comprehensive international efforts to study and benchmark Human Resource practices worldwide, connecting academic research with real-world application.
The Research Project Manager supports the global reach and operational excellence of CIHRS and CRANET by coordinating international partnerships, events, communications, and large-scale research initiatives.
Drive process improvements, including AI-enabled workflows, to enhance operations for CIHRS and CRANET operations
Coordinate planning for the International Human Resource Management global conference, including program preparation, budget, and logistics
Manage bi-monthly webinar series from speaker coordination through post-event follow-up
Oversee financial, procurement, and administrative processes within institutional systems
Lead communications across newsletters, email, social, and websites; respond to inquiries
Serve as primary contact for CRANET country representatives and research partners across 40+ countries
Manage communications related to survey launches, timelines, and partner membership status
Track country participation, data submission status, and data sharing agreements
Support onboarding of new partners and maintain network records and directories
Coordinate and participate (virtually and in person) in international research meetings
Lead U.S. data collection and support global survey implementation, utilizing Qualtrics
Coordinate survey development, including questionnaire finalization and translations
Monitor survey progress and response rates
Develop dashboards and reporting tools to support partner collaboration and tracking
Oversee receipt, review, and validation of international datasets
Merge, clean, and harmonize the international CRANET dataset across participating countries
Maintain data documentation and the data management plan; prepare datasets for research use and network distribution
The Research Project Manager will also assist with other CIHRS research projects and train and guide student researchers and graduate assistants in research tools and workflows.
Outstanding organizational skills with exceptional attention to detail and accuracy, particularly in data tracking and documentation
Proven ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining organized workflows and delivering timely, reliable results
Excellent interpersonal skills; inclusive and respectful when working with others
Effective written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to work collaboratively with colleagues, partners, and stakeholders
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
Bachelor's Degree No prior relevant work experience required; previous relevant work experience accepted in lieu of education. Required Certifications: NoneApplicants must submit a cover letter addressing their interest and relevant experience, in addition to a resume.
This position will report to the Director of the Center for International Human Resource Studies.
The College of the Liberal Arts is supportive of flexible work arrangements when aligned with the ability to meet the needs of the unit and the essential duties of the position. Questions related to flexible work should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.
Important Note: In accordance with College guidelines, this position requires a minimum of three days per week of on-site work at the designated work location.
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.SALARY & BENEFITS
The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $56,200.00 - $81,500.00.Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university’s teaching, research, and service mission.