Project Manager, IT Project Manager, Systems Analyst

We are seeking a highly organized and results-driven Project Manager for a 6-month on-site contract position in Knoxville, TN, with the possibility of full-time conversion. This role requires a strong background in a software development environment and will lead cross-functional technical teams to deliver software projects on time, within scope, and within budget. The Project Manager will be responsible for planning, executing, monitoring, and closing projects while managing stakeholder expectations and mitigating risks.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end project lifecycle from initiation through closure
• Define project scope, goals, deliverables, timelines, and success metrics
• Develop detailed project plans, schedules, and budgets
• Coordinate internal teams and external vendors to ensure alignment and execution
• Monitor project progress and adjust plans as needed to meet objectives
• Identify, assess, and mitigate project risks and issues
• Communicate project status, milestones, and risks to stakeholders and leadership
• Ensure projects comply with company standards, processes, and quality requirements
• Facilitate meetings, sprint planning, and retrospectives (as applicable)
• Manage change requests and ensure proper documentation and approvals

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Information Systems, or a related field
• 3–5+ years of experience managing projects in a software development environment
• Strong understanding of the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC)
• Proven experience working with software engineers, QA teams, product managers, and stakeholders
• Hands-on experience managing Agile and/or Scrum-based projects
• Proficiency with project management and development tools (e.g., Jira, Confluence, Azure Dev Ops, Git-based workflows)
• Excellent organizational, communication, and leadership skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior background as a software developer, engineer, QA analyst, or technical lead
• PMP, CSM, SAFe, or other Agile/Scrum certifications
• Experience delivering web, mobile, or enterprise software applications
• Ability to translate technical concepts into business-friendly language
• Experience working in fast-paced, iterative development environments
• Leadership and team collaboration
• Time and priority management
• Risk management and decision-making
• Stakeholder communication

What We Offer

• 6-month contract with strong potential for full-time employment
• Competitive hourly or contract rate (based on experience)
• Opportunity to work on high-impact, visible projects
• Collaborative and supportive team environment
• Potential for long-term growth within the organization