Principal Project Specialist

This position has the flexibility to work remote from anywhere in the United States or from any of AIR's U.S. office locations. This does not include U.S. territories.

About AIR:

Established in 1946, with headquarters in Arlington, Virginia, AIR is a nonpartisan, not-for-profit institution that conducts behavioral and social science research and delivers technical assistance to solve some of the most urgent challenges in the U.S. and around the world. We advance evidence in the areas of education, health, the workforce, human services, and international development to create a better, more equitable world. 

We hire talented and forward-thinking professionals to build our cross-functional teams and support our clients in solving complex problems. Our people—problem-solvers, changemakers, and creative thinkers—are experts in their craft who rise to meet today’s challenges. We value the experiences of every member of our institution, from entry level to executive. As part of our collaborative, learning-oriented team, you’ll be encouraged to grow in your career, develop additional skills, and progress professionally.

Responsibilities:

• Provide strategic oversight and operational leadership for the FEWS NET Learning and Data Hub project, ensuring alignment with USAID objectives and contractual obligations.
• Lead the development and implementation of project management frameworks, tools, and processes to support efficient execution and continuous improvement.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, staffing plans, and deliverables across multiple workstreams and technical teams.
• Serve as a key liaison between AIR, USAID, and consortium partners, facilitating clear communication, coordination, and issue resolution.
• Oversee risk management, quality assurance, and compliance with donor and organizational policies.
• Support the development of technical and financial reports, work plans, and other client-facing deliverables.
• Mentor and guide project staff, fostering a collaborative and high-performance team culture.
• Contribute to strategic planning, proposal development, and thought leadership related to food security, data systems, and learning.

Qualifications:

Education, Knowledge, and Experience:

• Master’s degree in public policy, international development, project management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in project management, with at least 5 years in a leadership role on large, complex, donor-funded projects.
• Demonstrated experience managing USAID-funded or similar international development projects.
• Deep understanding of project management methodologies, tools, and best practices.
• PMP certification or equivalent preferred but not required.

Skills:

• Exceptional leadership, organizational, and strategic planning skills.
• Proven ability to manage complex workflows, budgets, and cross-functional teams.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with experience engaging high-level stakeholders.
• Advanced proficiency in project management software (e.g., MS Project, Smartsheet, Asana) and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to synthesize technical information and present it clearly to diverse audiences.
• Commitment to equity, inclusion, and the mission of improving global food security.

Disclosures:

Applicants must be currently