Posted:
5/18/2026, 5:42:36 AM
Location(s):
State College, Pennsylvania, United States ⋅ Pennsylvania, United States
Experience Level(s):
Mid Level ⋅ Senior
Field(s):
Finance & Banking
Workplace Type:
Hybrid
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.
POSITION SPECIFICS
We are searching for an experienced and detail-oriented Program Finance Manager to join our Program Finance and Analysis Department at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State University. ARL Business Services enables and facilitates the research, scholarship, and creative endeavors of ARL by providing efficient and high-quality contracting, purchasing, accounting, and related capabilities to all ARL programs. This position will provide budget management and fiscal controls at ARL and will serve as the Program Finance Manager (PFM) for one of the major technical offices within ARL.
ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply.
You will:
Verify financial controls are maintained to assure financial and budgetary information is in compliance with accounting/budgetary concepts and University policy and procedure
Assure approval paths, roles, and authorizations are established based on appropriate access and controls
Manage budgets for all funds, including sponsored research, overhead, and fee; assist in the budget development process
Approve or oversee approval of all financial documents and transactions, expenditures (including purchasing card and travel), and budget; ensure compliance with PSU/ARL policies and procedures, as well as specific federal regulations
Provide and/or coordinate advice on budget management, financial controls, and
policies/procedures; provide training as required
Prepare reports, including analysis of historical and current trends and forecasting of funding profile, base estimates, overhead spending, and service centers
Prepare and oversee the portfolio of sponsored research funding for assigned areas, including completion of Estimate to Complete (ETC) budgets
Supervise employees, to include coaching, mentorship, and performance management
Required skills/experience areas include:
Experience in complex financial reporting, budgeting, and forecasting
Prior success managing and developing a team of financial specialists
Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, and Outlook)
Previous success with collaborations in a diverse, multi-disciplinary, team-oriented culture
Past success managing multiple projects, initiatives, and tasks with strict deadlines
Strong problem solving, analytical, and organizational skills
Ability to communicate clearly both verbally and in writing
Ability to adapt and change in a fast-paced environment
Preferred skills/experience areas include:
Experience supporting the financial management of awarded programs for the Navy, DoD, IC, and other Government and industry Sponsors
Proficient knowledge and experience in government contracting or DOD industry
Successful completion of the PSU ACES course
Current eligibility for access to classified information at the Secret level or higher and may be subject to a government background investigation to upgrade clearance eligibility, if required
Your working location will be fully on-site, located in State College, PA, but options exist for hybrid of on-site/work from home based on project-dependent ability. Occasional travel may be required to other ARL locations outside of State College, PA.
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
Bachelor's Degree 8+ years of relevant experience, includes 3+ years of supervisory experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted Required Certifications: None
ARL’s purpose is to research and develop innovative solutions to challenging scientific, engineering, and technology problems in support of the Navy, the Department of Defense (DoD), and the Intel Community (IC).
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION on ARL, visit our web site at www.arl.psu.edu.
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.All positions at ARL require candidates to possess the ability to obtain a government security clearance; you will be notified during the interview process if this position is subject to a government background investigation. You must be a U.S. citizen to apply. Employment with the ARL will require successful completion of a pre-employment drug screen.
SALARY & BENEFITS
The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $86,300.00 - $129,500.00.**THE PROPOSED SALARY RANGE MAY BE IMPACTED BY GEOGRAPHIC DIFFERENTIAL**
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.
Website: https://www.arl.psu.edu/
Headquarter Location: Sharon, Pennsylvania, United States
Employee Count: 251-500
Year Founded: 1855
IPO Status: Private