Job Information
The Research Foundation for SUNY at Binghamton University Operations Program Manager - National Science Foundation (NSF) Energy Storage Engine in Vestal, New York
Location: Vestal, NY Category: Professional & Support Staff Posted On: Thu Feb 19 2026 Job Description:
Binghamton University is looking for an experienced Operations Program Manager to support the operations of the National Science Foundation (NSF) Energy Storage Engine in Upstate New York. Led by Binghamton University, the Engine brings together premier R&D universities and educational institutions, industry, economic development and community organizations, and government agencies to grow a leading battery technology ecosystem in Upstate New York with regional and national impacts.
The Operations Program Manager will serve as a tactical right hand to Engine leadership, implementing systems, processes, and reporting that allow the Engine to operate effectively while maintaining focus on its mission of advancing energy storage innovation in Upstate New York. This role will work closely with the Sponsored Programs Office to oversee contract and subaward management and will support Engine partnership management. The ideal candidate is highly organized, analytical, and execution-focused, with a willingness to roll up their sleeves, ensuring the Engine's operational foundation supports its research, translation, workforce development, and regional engagement goals and positions the Engine for scaling and sustained success. Additionally, the candidate must thrive in a fast-paced, shifting environment, enjoy solving operational challenges, and be motivated by the impact of advancing energy storage technology in Upstate NY. This position will report to the Engine COO.
Core responsibilities include:
Operations Program Development & Management
Implement program management systems, tools, dashboards, and processes to enable data-driven decision-making, operational efficiency and leadership visibility. Focus area is key operational metrics, including financial snapshots, budget tracking, OKRs, initiative schedules, and milestone tracking.
Track progress against key milestones and performance metrics.
Serve as a thought partner in developing and refining the Engine's operational roadmap.
Prepare leadership, board, and NSF quarterly and other reports on program progress and outcomes.
Support leadership with meeting and presentation preparation and coordination (e.g. governance board meetings, NSF site visits, etc.).
Support externally-facing Engine events and programming (eg. conference support).
Budget and Grants Management
- Work in partnership with the Sponsored Programs Office to maintain, monitor, and report accurate spend vs. budget and associated KPIs .
Awards, Subawards, and Contracts Management
Work with Sponsored Program Office to ensure timely completion of agreements and amendments.
Negotiate contracts with Engine suppliers, ensuring alignment with NSF, ESD, SUNY Research Foundation, and Binghamton University policies and sourcing best practices.
Maintain official Engine archive of NSF documents.
Partnership Management
Work with business development lead to develop partnership database to track partner outreach efforts and ensure follow-up.
Support leadership in external stakeholder engagement and partnership coordination.
Facilitate collaboration between internal and external stakeholders through shared platforms, templates, and schedules.
Job Requirements:
A combination of technical and business education - such as Bachelor's degree in engineering or science and Bachelors' degree in business administration
Minimum of ten years of program or operational manager experience, within a complex organization operating at the intersection of business and emerging technology.
Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to collaborate effectively across academic, industry, government, nonprofit, and private-sector stakeholders, including board members and senior executives.
Demonstrated experience building and working with diverse stakeholders
Detail-oriented and highly organized, able to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously.
Experienced in operational program management, with a background in process optimization, project management, or organizational efficiency.
Data-driven, with comfort using metrics and analytics to inform operations.
Systems thinker with the ability to synthesize complex information, balance strategy with day-to-day execution, and support organizational effectiveness.
Proactive and adaptable, able to navigate ambiguity, shifting priorities, and rapidly changing environments while identifying opportunities for improvement.
Execution-focused problem solver with a hands-on, solutions-oriented approach and a track record of overcoming complex challenges.
Preferred Qualifications
Masters of Business Administration (MBA) or Operations Management highly preferred
Corporate or entrepreneurial/startup experience in Energy Storage or related industries.
Experience in supporting large federally funded programs
Additional Information:
Salary: $180,000 annually based on education and experience. This is a grant-funded position, with the initial appointment subject to renewal of the Engine for its second award period commencing on, or around, March 1 2026, and potential for renewal based on availability of funds.
Note: Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.