Description

The Marine Technology Society (MTS) believes that advancements in the development and use of marine technologies are essential to support responsible and sustainable use of the ocean. Founded in 1963, we are an international professional society that provides members of academia, government, and industry a common forum for the exchange of information and ideas. Our members are engineers, scientists, technologists, policymakers, and educators on the leading-edge of technology design and application. MTS members work within the full spectrum of ocean and subsea technologies that support sustainable ocean use, ranging from offshore energy to dynamic positioning, ocean robotics to buoys, and many more. 

The Role 
MTS seeks a part-time Program Manager to join our growing Ocean Enterprise Initiative team Ocean Enterprise Initiative . Reporting to the Senior Director and working closely with the full-time Program Manager, the position will be responsible for administering a suite of existing and to-be-developed events for the Ocean Enterprise Initiative, including the signature program, Dialogues with Industry.  The initiative was launched in 2023 with funding from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to grow the ocean enterprise programming including additional structured dialogues, community convenings, expert working groups, needs assessments, impact reports, and more that support national and international efforts toward a vibrant Ocean Enterprise.  

The ideal candidate should have some experience in event planning and execution, program management, and administrative operations with government or non-profit organizations.  They should also have exceptional attention-to-detail, an ability to manage multiple time-dependent priorities, and, if possible, a familiarity with the marine technology community. The position can be based anywhere in the US, with a preference for contiguous time zones.

This role includes the following essential functions, and other duties as assigned: 

• Collaborate with the Senior Director and Program Manager of the Ocean Enterprise Initiative to develop and refine strategies for Ocean Enterprise Initiative programming.
• Support the development and execution of events/programs for the Ocean Enterprise Initiative.
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to ensure successful event outcomes.
• Create and maintain event marketing materials, including email campaigns, social media posts, and website content, and support the ongoing development of the Ocean Enterprise Interchange.
• Coordinate project work, reporting, key deliverables as designated.
• Support and planning and execution of Ocean Enterprise event logistics, including venue selection, and catering requirements.
• Provide administrative support to the Senior Director of the Ocean Enterprise Initiative and other MTS staff members as needed. 

Requirements

• A bachelor’s degree from an accredited academic institution and at least five years of full-time experience, preferably in a non-profit or association setting. A combination of education and experience will be considered.  
• Some background in ocean related professional activity.
• Superior written and verbal communication skills with the ability to draft concise, compelling, and quality messages with and without Artificial Intelligence (AI) support. (example reports/publications can be found in Ocean Enterprise Initiative)
• Capability of learning and utilizing database and project management software to manage program data and to generate analytics to inform strategy and tactics.
• Proficiency in using Microsoft and Adobe products and collaboration software for communications, presentations, and reporting activities.
• Keen attention to detail as well as demonstrated time- and project-management skills, including an ability to meet multiple deadlines by maintaining a high level of organization.
• Demonstrated ability to collect, interpret, and extract key details from Ocean Enterprise Initiative events to ensure feedback is collected and utilized toward refining programming.
• Ability to solve problems independently, work in uncertain or ambiguous environments, and inform decisions with the best available data. 

Preferred skills 

• Master’s degree preferred in ocean/marine related discipline.
• A current Certified Association Executive (CAE) or Project Management Professional (PMP) credential.
• Some demonstrated background in logistics, venue procurement, and management of small to medium size events both virtual and in person.
• A background of use/understanding of marine technology and ocean observing practices. 

Employment Consideration

• This role can be structured for an independent contractor or part-time employee. Expected time commitment is 20-30+ hours per week.
• Competitive compensation commensurate with experience and negotiable.
• MTS staff work flexible hours and are fully remote.
• Occasional travel may be required (approx. 1-2x per year) to represent the Ocean Enterprise Initiative at events and/or attend staff meetings. 
• Applicants must be legally authorized to work and physically located within the United States.

To apply, please email a resume and cover letter to [email protected]. 

Application review will begin September 12, 2025 and continue until the role is filled.