Aptive seeks an experienced Program Manager to lead a multidisciplinary communications team supporting a federal health research organization focused on advancing scientific innovation and improving public health outcomes. This role is responsible for overseeing day-to-day operations, setting priorities, and ensuring deliver of high-quality communications products across digital, written, visual, and outreach channels. The Program Manager serves as the primary liaison with the government stakeholders and plays a key role in translating complex scientific and programmatic information into clear, accurate, and accessible communications for a wide variety of audiences.

The ideal candidate brings extensive experience managing complex communications programs in a federal, scientific, or health-related environment. Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills are essential, as is the ability to manage multiple priorities and engage effectively with senior stakeholders, subject matter experts, and technical teams in a remote, highly collaborative setting. A background in biomedical research, translational science, or public health communications is strongly preferred, along with demonstrated success leading multidisciplinary teams and delivering impactful, mission-driven communications.

Responsibilities include managing and coordinating staff across functions such as scientific writing, web and digital communications, graphic design, social media, media monitoring, and meeting and event support. The Program Manager oversees project planning, schedules, and resource allocation; ensures work is delivered on time and meets quality standards; and fosters a collaborative, solutions-oriented team environment. This role also ensures that communications activities comply with applicable federal policies and best practices, including accessibility, plain language, information security, and records management.

• 12+ years experience managing communications, public affairs, or outreach programs, preferably in a federal, health, or scientific environment.
• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Health, or other related field.
• Experience supporting large, complex projects for federal agencies; NIH preferred.
• Demonstrated experience leading multidisciplinary teams and managing complex, time-sensitive projects.
• Proven ability to communicate complex scientific or technical information to different audiences.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with experience briefing or coordinating with senior stakeholders.
• Experience working in remote or hybrid team environments and using collaboration and project management tools.
• Eligibility to obtain and maintain required federal security clearances and complete mandatory security and privacy training.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, SharePoint, and other project management tools.

• Advanced degree in a scientific, public health, or communications-related discipline.
• Background in biomedical research, translational science, or public health communications.
• Familiarity with federal accessibility (Section 508), plain language, and digital communications standards.
• Experience managing web, digital, and social media communications for large organizations.
• Experience overseeing communications for meetings, advisory groups, or public-facing events.
• Certification in Project Management (e.g., PMP) or other similar project management certification.

Aptive partners with federal agencies to achieve their missions through improved performance, streamlined operations and enhanced service delivery. Based in Alexandria, Virginia, we support more than a dozen agencies including Veterans Affairs, Transportation, Defense, Homeland Security and the National Science Foundation. ​

We specialize in applying technology, creativity and human-centered services to optimize mission delivery and improve experiences for millions of people who count on government services every day. ​

Founded: 2012
Employees: 300+ nationwide

Aptive is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, parental status, veteran status, age, disability, or any other protected class.

Veterans, members of the Reserve and National Guard, and transitioning active-duty service members are highly encouraged to apply.