IT Project Manager I

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North Carolina Central University's Information Technology Services ( ITS) provides information technology services to schools and departments, administrators, staff, students, and the growing online and distance education student population. The objectives of ITS are to Improve the operational effectiveness and efficiency of the administrators, faculty, and staff at NCCU through the use of technology, enhance the teaching, learning, and research process through the use of technology, and to provide adequate support of the technology that is deployed.

The IT Project Manager I is responsible for coordinating, managing, and delivering technology projects that support the strategic and operational goals of North Carolina Central University and Information Technology Services. This position leads project planning, execution, and completion within defined timelines and approved budgets. Responsibilities include identifying and securing required resources, collaborating with internal stakeholders and external partners, and ensuring effective communication throughout the project life cycle. The IT Project Manager I also establishes project objectives, monitors progress, manages risks, and ensures quality standards are met to achieve successful outcomes and support the university's evolving technology needs.

The ideal candidate must demonstrate the ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team-oriented environment. Flexibility, adaptability, and strong analytical and problem-solving skills are essential, particularly when navigating shifting priorities, evolving requirements, and project changes. The candidate should be able to communicate effectively with individuals from diverse technical and professional backgrounds, exercising emotional intelligence, political awareness, and the ability to resolve conflict when necessary. Strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills are required, along with the ability to motivate, influence, and secure stakeholder cooperation at all levels of the organization. The role requires strong research skills, the capacity to learn and apply new technologies rapidly, and comfort using a variety of tools and platforms. Customer service orientation, the ability to prioritize and manage competing tasks, and success working in high-pressure environments are also critical to performing effectively in this position.

Minimum qualifications for this role include a bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Business Administration, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience. Candidates must have at least four years of experience leading or coordinating technology projects, with demonstrated knowledge of project management methodologies, tools, and software platforms. Strong familiarity with project management software, the ability to document business processes and workflows, and a solid working knowledge of current internet technologies and modern IT environments are required. The role also requires the ability to create clear written materials, such as knowledge base articles and project communications, along with technical proficiency in productivity and collaboration tools, including Microsoft Office Suite, video conferencing tools, project portfolio management ( PPM) systems, and IT service management ( ITSM) software.

PMP Certification preferred

Consistent with the policy of the State of North Carolina, North Carolina Central University ( NCCU) reaffirms that it has been, and will continue to be, the policy of this University to be an equal opportunity employer. North Carolina Central University is committed to providing educational opportunities and prohibits discrimination against students, applicants, employees, or visitors based on race, color, genetic information, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, political affiliation, or veteran status. Any individual alleging discrimination based on sexual orientation cannot grieve beyond the University's internal grievance process. In keeping with this policy, and to further the principle of equal opportunity, all other personnel matters such as recruitment, selection, hiring, promotion, compensation, performance appraisal, disciplinary actions, benefits, transfers, separations, reduction in force, grievance procedures, company-sponsored training, education, tuition assistance, and social and recreational programs will also continue to be administered in accordance with this policy.

Define the project scope, goals, and deliverables that support the project goals, in collaboration with Information Technology Services and campus leaders. Effectively communicate project expectations to team members and stakeholders in a timely, transparent manner. Liaise with project stakeholders on an ongoing basis. Set and continually manage project expectations with team members and other stakeholders. Plan and schedule project timelines and milestones using appropriate tools. Track project milestones and deliverables. Determine the frequency and content of project meetings and status reports from the project team, analyze results, and troubleshoot problem areas. Define project success criteria and disseminate them to involved parties throughout the project life cycle. Conduct project postmortems and create a recommendations report to identify successful and unsuccessful project elements. Develop, model, and implement best practices for project execution and management.

Direct and manage project development from beginning to end. Develop full-scale project plans and associated communications documents. Delegate tasks and responsibilities to appropriate personnel. Identify and resolve issues and conflicts within the project team. Identify and manage project dependencies and the critical path. Develop and deliver progress reports, proposals, requirements documentation, and presentations. Proactively manage changes in project scope, identify potential crises, and devise contingency plans, including informing CIO, Associate CIO, Directors, and Key Stakeholders.

Provide guidance and support to project team members and external partners by encouraging accountability, collaboration, and high-quality performance. Establishing and maintaining strong working relationships across campus is essential to advancing project goals and ensuring successful outcomes.