IT Technical Project Manager
9 days ago
Virginia Beach
Job Description ***Onsite role located in Virginia Beach ***Local candidates only or ability to relocate ***Visa sponsorship NOT available now or in the future Paradigm is seeking an experienced Technical Project Manager to join our Information Technology department and lead technology initiatives across our organization. This role will be instrumental in managing projects that support our credentialing platforms, manufacturing operations, client services, and internal systems. You'll work cross-functionally with product development, operations, client services, and executive leadership to ensure seamless delivery of IT projects that enhance our capabilities and drive business value. The ideal candidate will bring strong technical acumen, exceptional organizational skills, and the ability to navigate complex stakeholder environments while keeping projects on track and aligned with our strategic goals. Environment Microsoft-based infrastructure using primarily Windows desktop OS and Windows Server with Office 365; primarily .Net web and desktop development utilizing Microsoft SQL database back-end and limited use of Azure blob storage; integrations with Microsoft’s Dynamics Navision, D365 systems, UPS WorldShip, ShipWise, and Endicia; Palo Alto security network has been implemented. Key Responsibilities: Cross-Functional Project Leadership • Lead and coordinate IT projects across multiple departments, including Product Development, Operations, Manufacturing, Client Services, and Sales., • Manage the full project lifecycle from initiation through deployment and post-implementation support., • Serve as the primary liaison between IT and business stakeholders across Paradigm's expanding campus and service offerings., • Facilitate alignment between technical initiatives and business objectives for our credentialing platforms and enterprise systems., • Oversee implementation and enhancement projects for our digital credentialing platforms (CeDiploma®, CeCertificate®, ScholarRecord®)., • Manage infrastructure projects supporting manufacturing operations, DirectShip™ fulfillment, and SuretyLock™ security features., • Coordinate system integrations with higher education SIS platforms and institutional partners., • Lead projects involving our online ordering platform, credential management systems, and client-facing portals., • Ensure compliance with security standards and requirements for handling sensitive academic credentials., • Develop comprehensive project plans including scope, schedules, budgets, resource allocation, and risk mitigation strategies., • Utilize project management methodologies (Agile, Waterfall, or hybrid) appropriate to each initiative., • Track project metrics, identify blockers, and proactively address issues before they impact delivery., • Manage vendor relationships and third-party implementation partners., • Conduct regular status meetings and provide transparent communication on project health., • Translate technical concepts for non-technical audiences across the organization., • Gather and document business requirements from registrars, operations teams, and client-facing staff., • Present project updates and recommendations to executive leadership., • Manage change control processes and ensure stakeholders understand project impacts., • Coordinate user acceptance testing and training initiatives for new systems., • Establish and refine IT project management standards, templates, and governance frameworks., • Identify opportunities to streamline technology processes and improve operational efficiency., • Implement best practices for project portfolio management and resource optimization., • Contribute to IT strategic planning and capacity planning efforts., • Bachelor’s degree in computer science, Information Technology, Information Systems, Business Administration, or related field., • 5+ years of progressive experience in technical project management or IT program management., • Proven track record of successfully delivering complex, cross-functional technology projects on time and within budget., • Experience managing projects in a multi-stakeholder environment with competing priorities., • Strong understanding of software development lifecycles, including Agile/Scrum and Waterfall methodologies., • Proficiency with project management tools (e.g., Jira, Microsoft Project, Asana, Smartsheet, Monday.com)., • Knowledge of enterprise systems, cloud infrastructure (AWS, Azure, or similar), and SaaS platforms., • Familiarity with system integrations, APIs, and data management concepts., • Understanding of security best practices, particularly for handling sensitive data., • Exceptional project planning, scheduling, and resource management capabilities., • Strong risk identification, assessment, and mitigation skills., • Budget management and financial tracking experience., • Ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment., • Proven ability to scope projects accurately and manage scope creep., • Outstanding written and verbal communication skills with the ability to tailor messages to different audiences., • Demonstrated ability to influence without direct authority and build consensus., • Strong facilitation and conflict resolution skills., • Experience presenting to executive leadership and technical audiences., • Collaborative mindset with ability to work effectively across organizational boundaries., • Self-starter with strong initiative and accountability., • Detail-oriented with excellent organizational skills., • Analytical problem solver who can think strategically and tactually., • Adaptable and resilient in the face of changing priorities., • Committed to continuous learning and professional development., • Master's degree (MBA, MS in Technology Management, or related field)., • Project Management Professional (PMP) certification (Strongly Recommended)., • Agile/Scrum certifications (CSM, SAFe Agilest, PMI-ACP)., • Experience in higher education technology or working with academic institutions., • Background with e-commerce platforms, fulfillment systems, or manufacturing operations., • ITIL Foundation certification or experience with IT service management., • Experience with ERP systems or enterprise-wide technology implementations., • Previous work in a growth-oriented company expanding its technology footprint.Physical Requirements:, • Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer., • Must be able to lift to 15 pounds at times.Compensation and Benefits, • Full-Time, Monday through Friday, 8:30 am to 5:00 pm with mandatory weekday or weekend as needed., • Competitive wage with opportunities for advancement., • Medical, dental and vision insurance based upon length of service qualifications., • Retirement plan available based upon length of service qualifications., • Paid sick- and annual-leave. At Paradigm, you'll join a company with a rich 40-year legacy and an exciting future. We're continuously innovating our technology platforms while maintaining the high-quality products and exemplary customer service that have made us the trusted choice for over 1,000 institutions. As our Technical Project Manager, you'll play a key role in our technology evolution, ensuring that our systems, platforms, and processes support both our operational excellence and our commitment to our clients. You'll work with passionate professionals who take pride in their work and are united by a common purpose: helping colleges and universities protect credential integrity and deliver exceptional experiences to graduates. If you're looking for a role where your project management expertise will have a real impact and where you can grow your career with a stable, innovative company, we'd love to hear from you.