Special Projects IBM Engineering Manager - Life Insurance; In House

Position Overview

We are seeking a seasoned Special Projects Engineering Manager to lead and oversee complex software development and technology initiatives within a life insurance company environment
, with a strong focus on systems built on the IBM iSeries (AS/400) platform. The ideal candidate will combine deep project leadership experience with strategic thinking and a strong understanding of life insurance operations and enterprise IT infrastructure.

This individual will work closely with executive leadership, business unit stakeholders, and technical teams to ensure mission-critical software initiatives are delivered on time, within budget, and aligned with business goals. This is a high-impact, on-site role based at our Lake Mary, Florida headquarters.

• Lead large-scale software development projects, including modernization and enhancement of IBM iSeries-based systems.
• Act as the bridge between IT, business operations, and executive leadership, ensuring all parties are aligned.
• Develop detailed project plans, timelines, and budgets while managing cross-functional teams and external vendors.
• Identify risks, dependencies, and obstacles early, and drive resolution through structured problem-solving.
• Ensure compliance with industry regulations and internal governance policies specific to life insurance and financial systems.
• Facilitate communication and updates between software developers, QA teams, business analysts, and senior stakeholders.
• Champion Agile, Waterfall, or hybrid methodologies depending on the project scope and business needs.
• Guide implementation of new technology initiatives such as DR/HA systems, VTL backups, or API integrations.
• Oversee UAT (User Acceptance Testing), documentation, training, and rollout processes.
• Promote efficiency, transparency, and continuous improvement across all projects.

• 7+ years of experience in project or program management
  , with a focus in the insurance or financial services sector.
• Strong understanding of IBM iSeries (AS/400) systems, architecture, and related development environments (RPG, DB2, CL).
• Proven experience managing software development life cycles
  , system integrations, and infrastructure projects.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Familiarity with insurance operations, compliance requirements, and customer service models.
• PMP, PMI-ACP, or comparable project management certification preferred.
• Experience with tools like MS Project, Jira, Smartsheet, or other enterprise PM platforms.

• Experience with policy administration
  , claims systems, billing, or agent portals in the life insurance domain.
• Knowledge of data migration
  , backup/recovery systems
  , and disaster recovery planning on IBM Power Systems.
• Understanding of modern software tools integrating with legacy systems (e.g., Web services, APIs, front-end web apps).
• Exposure to Agile transformation efforts or digital modernization projects in legacy environments.

• Competitive salary based on experience.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) with company match.
• Paid time off and holidays.
• Professional development opportunities.
• A stable, team-oriented work environment in Lake Mary, FL.