Title: Program Operations Manager

Company Name: SPARK NS

Location: Required onsite 4 days per week, Menlo Park, CA

Employment Type: Full-time, Exempt

Position Summary

SPARK NS is seeking a Program Operations Manager to provide critical operational and programmatic support to our Translational Research and Development (TRD) and Education teams. This non-technical role will work closely with both teams as primary internal clients, receiving direction and program specifications from the Executive Director and team leads. The Program Operations Manager will help coordinate and execute specific operations related to translational research and education initiatives including, supporting application cycles and cohort programming (including project updates, report outs, and related educational activities), and, when required, facilitate some communications such as correspondence with Principal Investigators. The ideal candidate will excel at cross-functional collaboration, ensuring that program activities are delivered efficiently and in alignment with team requirements, and have a technical understanding of apps, platforms, and programs, while also identifying opportunities for process improvement and supporting a positive, productive work environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Coordinate and execute specific program operations as directed by the Executive Director and in collaboration with TRD and Education teams.
• Manage the application intake and review process, ensuring timely and accurate processing based on team-provided criteria.
• Organize and facilitate cohort activities (updates, educational sessions, report-outs) according to specifications from TRD and Education teams.
• As required, support communications with program stakeholders, including drafting and sending correspondence to Principal Investigators and external partners as directed.
• Collect and compile program data and feedback to support reporting and continuous improvement efforts.
• Assist with the planning and logistics for program-related events, both virtual and in-person, as specified by internal teams.
• Identify and recommend opportunities for operational improvements to enhance program delivery.
• Collaborate with other administrative staff to ensure seamless program support and information flow.
• Maintain familiarity with program management tools and contribute to the development and refinement of standard operating procedures (SOPs).

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required (Life Sciences, Business, Project Management, or related field preferred); Master’s degree a plus.
• 5–7 years of experience in program or project management, preferably in research, education, or non-profit settings.
• Technical understanding of applications, platforms and programs.
• Demonstrated experience supporting cross-functional teams and managing complex program logistics.
• Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities, with experience supporting communications with diverse stakeholders.
• Proficiency with project management software (e.g., Asana, Smartsheet, MS Project) and Microsoft Office/Google Suite.
• Experience with budgeting and financial tracking.
• High emotional intelligence, with proven, positive relationship-building skills.
• Experience developing or maintaining operational processes and SOPs.
• Project Management Professional (PMP) or similar certification preferred.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Competitive Base Salary: $107,000 - $130,000 based on qualifications and experience.
• Health Benefits: 100% employer-paid medical, dental, and vision coverage for you.
• SPARK NS believes in compensating talent fairly while reinvesting in our mission.

Travel: From time to time, travel domestically and internationally as required with advance notice.

Join us in making a difference! SPARK NS is an equal-opportunity employer! We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive work environment. Applicants from all backgrounds and experiences are encouraged to apply.