Research Project Manager

Position Overview
TAP Engineering is seeking a Research Project Manager to support leading-edge research and engineering initiatives across the physical sciences, including quantum computing, advanced computing systems, additive manufacturing, photonics, advanced materials, and microelectronics. This is a full-time position based in College Park, MD. This program supports a government research lab, and as a contractor, TAP is responsible for providing world-class research scientists, engineers, technicians, and support staff to drive advancements that directly support national security. In this role, you will support Government Research Scientists (Principal Investigators) in managing a technically diverse and geographically dispersed portfolio of research projects in partnership with academia and industry. The ideal candidate will bring a strong combination of technical expertise and project management experience.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, document, and flow down project requirements, both technical and programmatic in nature
• Develop and modify technical Statements of Work
• Develop, document, monitor, and report on research project plans, including cost, schedule, risk, and resource management, in coordination with research teams
• Develop and analyze forecasts covering technical performance, cost, and schedule, as well as overall project performance data
• Support logistics, planning, and coordination for meetings, workshops, technical seminars, and conferences
• Prepare, coordinate, and present monthly project status reviews to executive leadership
• Participate in cross-disciplinary Government/Contractor teams to assess and respond to urgent or unexpected project issues related to cost, schedule, and technical performance

Required Qualifications

• Active TS/SCI clearance with appropriate polygraph (U.S. citizenship required)
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Science, Management, or a related discipline
• 5+ years of experience as a project or program manager, with demonstrated experience in:
  • Requirements analysis and resource allocation
  • Project costing and deliverable tracking
  • Schedule and financial data monitoring and reporting
• Demonstrated technical knowledge in one or more of the following areas:
  • Advanced Computing Systems (Computer Science, AI/ML, FPGA)
  • Quantum Computing, Information Science, or Sensing
  • RF, Optics, or Photonics
  • Additive Manufacturing or Microelectronics

Compensation
The anticipated salary range for this position is $140,000–$165,000, based on relevant experience, qualifications, and other applicable factors. The compensation range provided is a general guideline and is not a guarantee of compensation or salary.

Clearance Requirement
This position requires an active TS/SCI security clearance with appropriate polygraph. U.S. citizenship is required. Clearance processing and maintenance will be conducted in accordance with U.S. Government requirements.

Benefits Overview
TAP Engineering offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits package, including:

• Paid Time Off: 15–25 days annually based on tenure, plus 11 paid holidays (never use-or-lose)
• Retirement: Up to 15% employer contribution to a 401(k) through match and profit sharing
• Medical Coverage: Free medical insurance for employees, with optional buy-up plans for dependents
• Dental & Vision: Employer-paid plans with optional enhancements
• Insurance Coverage: Employer-paid life insurance, AD&D, short-term disability, and long-term disability
• Flexible Spending Accounts: Healthcare and dependent care FSAs
• Tuition Reimbursement: Up to $36,000 per year for approved coursework
• Additional Benefits: Employee Assistance Program, wellness incentives, discount programs, virtual care, prescription savings, and travel support
• Performance-Based Rewards: Merit increases, performance bonuses, and referral bonuses

Additional Information
TAP Engineering is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by law.