Associate Project Manager
Lawrenceville, NJ
Description: We are seeking an Associate Project Manager to support a scientific research and development organization focused on translational science and precision medicine initiatives. This contractor will provide project management support across multiple cross-functional programs, ensuring successful execution of project plans, operational activities, and strategic initiatives.
This role supports a fast-paced scientific environment and requires an individual who is highly organized, proactive, and comfortable working independently while collaborating with scientists and cross-functional stakeholders.
Responsibilities
Responsibilities may vary depending on project priorities and stage of development (early development, late development, or lifecycle management), but include:
Manage low to medium complexity projects supporting translational science and research initiatives.
Partner closely with scientific leads and subject matter experts to coordinate project planning, execution, and operational activities.
Support Book of Work (BOW) planning, tracking, and oversight.
Coordinate project meetings, prepare agendas, document meeting minutes, and track action items.
Develop, maintain, and update integrated project timelines aligned with overall development milestones.
Coordinate activities across cross-functional teams including scientific, clinical, regulatory, legal, finance, procurement, and external vendors.
Monitor project milestones, identify risks, facilitate issue resolution, and escalate concerns when appropriate.
Support resource planning across functional teams to ensure successful project execution.
Prepare and track project budgets, accruals, invoices, and financial reporting.
Assist with vendor management, contract coordination, and procurement activities.
Prepare routine project status reports and executive updates to ensure transparency across project teams.
Partner with other project management organizations to implement best practices and improve operational efficiencies.
Demonstrate professionalism, accountability, and strong collaboration in all team interactions.
Day-to-Day Activities
Typical daily responsibilities include:
Working closely with scientists and project leaders to coordinate project deliverables and timelines.
Facilitating project meetings and ensuring follow-up actions are completed.
Managing project schedules, operational tracking, and Book of Work activities.
Coordinating communication across multiple functional groups and stakeholders.
Supporting project documentation, financial tracking, and vendor coordination.
Maintaining project organization while ensuring milestones and deliverables remain on schedule.
Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences, Chemistry, Life Sciences, or another scientific discipline (or equivalent field).
Minimum 3 years of pharmaceutical, biotechnology, medical device, healthcare, or related industry experience.
Minimum 3 years of project management experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Experience supporting cross-functional scientific or product development programs.
Understanding of drug development, translational science, medical device development, or related research and development processes.
PMP certification is preferred but not required.
Required Skills
Strong project management and organizational skills.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Self-starter with the ability to work independently and effectively manage multiple priorities.
Strong collaboration and relationship-building skills across cross-functional teams.
Ability to influence stakeholders and coordinate activities without direct authority.
Excellent analytical, planning, and problem-solving skills.
Experience managing project budgets, contracts, and vendor relationships.
Ability to adapt quickly in a dynamic, fast-paced research environment.
Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple concurrent projects.
Demonstrated ability to foster teamwork built on trust, respect, and accountability.
Preferred Technical Skills
Experience with project management and productivity tools such as:
Microsoft Office Suite
Microsoft Project
Microsoft Excel
Visio
Smartsheet
Spotfire (preferred)
Ideal Candidate
The ideal candidate has a scientific background that enables effective collaboration with research teams while bringing strong project management expertise. They are an excellent communicator, highly organized, proactive, and capable of independently driving projects while partnering effectively with diverse cross-functional stakeholders.