Project Manager, Energy Security

About The National Bureau of Asian Research

NBR is an independent, nonpartisan research institution based in Seattle and Washington, D.C. We bring world-class scholarship to bear on the evolving strategic environment in Asia through original, policy-relevant research, and we invest in our future by training the next generation of Asia specialists.

With power, risk, and opportunity concentrating in Asia, we tackle those critical issues that America's leaders need to understand - because the decisions they make matter and the stakes are high. As the nation's Asia policy think tank, we envision a future that is free, open, secure, and prosperous for all.

This is an opportunity to work in a supportive environment with a group of high performing, dedicated, and friendly colleagues.

Position Overview

The National Bureau of Asian Research (NBR) is seeking a Project Manager, Energy Security to support the Energy and Environmental Affairs program to provide project management and development support for a portfolio of research projects covering a diverse set of energy topics across the Indo-Pacific region. Based in NBR's Washington, D.C. office, the project manager may also supervise an Intern or Project Associate.

This is a paid, full-time (40hr/week) position reporting to the Senior Director, Research and Programs. NBR utilizes a hybrid work schedule, and the hired candidate will be expected to work at least two days per week in the office.

Responsibilities

Project Managers work on project teams to accomplish specific project objectives and take the lead on managing specific project tasks on schedule and within budget.

• Project Management: Provide effective management to multiple projects, ensuring their successful planning, execution, and delivery, ensuring adherence to set schedules and budgetary constraints. Draft and maintain comprehensive project documentation, including project descriptions, concept papers, and correspondence.
• Stakeholder Engagement & Outreach: Maintain positive relationships with project research leads and external experts. Facilitate effective communication with senior officials, sponsors, and other relevant stakeholders. Represent NBR and our projects before various audiences, fostering strong relationships with project stakeholders and constituents.
• Research Management: Provide substantive research assistance for project teams and scholars, including summarizing research papers and contributing to the development of research inquiries. Review and ensure the quality of research outputs and provide support for intern research activities.
• Grant Development & Reporting: Contribute to the development of project proposals by researching potential funding opportunities and aiding in the conceptualization and framing of project ideas. Assist in the drafting of proposal narratives and the preparation of proposal budgets. Prepare grant progress reports in compliance with sponsor requirements and address any sponsor inquiries or requests effectively.
• Publications Support: Review and edit project publications, providing valuable feedback to enhance the quality of content. Coordinate the distribution of publications to relevant stakeholders and audiences.
• Budget Management: Assist in the development of project budgets, track project expenses, and generate detailed budget reports to ensure transparent financial management.
• Event Management: Plan and coordinate various events, including conferences, workshops, presentations, and government briefings related to ongoing projects.
• Staff Management: Provide guidance and supervision to project associates, fellows, and interns to ensure the timely achievement of project objectives.
• Database Administration: Coordinate the maintenance and updating of project databases to ensure the efficient organization and accessibility of project-related information.
• Participate actively in and manage various NBR activities and initiatives as required.

Qualifications Project Managers have substantive expertise on a range of countries and issues and understand each project's scope/relevance to work effectively with scholars and other stakeholders.

• Bachelor's degree in international relations, energy policy, Asia studies, foreign policy, or other relevant discipline.

• 2 or more years of relevant experience, including at least 1 year of experience managing projects and/or project development.

• Proficient knowledge and understanding of energy security or other energy issues in the Indo-Pacific, including the role of energy sources such as LNG, nuclear, and renewables in Asia’s energy mix and the use of emerging energy technologies to meet rising energy demands.

• Excellent communication and research skills.

• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.

• Relationship development and management experience.

• Self-motivated with ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

Strongly Preferred Qualifications

• Experience engaging with project sponsors, clients, or developing grant proposals.

• Proficiency with an Asian language.

• Master's Degree in a relevant field.

Application Instructions

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, beginning on 6/1/2026. To apply, submit the following materials with your application. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

• Cover letter summarizing your experience as it applies to the outlined responsibilities and qualifications.
• Resume
• Recent 3–5-page writing sample that has not been edited by anyone else.

As you progress through the screening and interview process, please be prepared to provide the following:

• Contact information for 3 professional and/or academic references.

Additional Information

This is a hybrid position based in our Washington, DC office. Full-Time staff are expected to work in-office at least two days per week. The expected pay range for this position is $55,000 to $59,000 per year, depending on experience.

This full-time position includes medical, dental and vision benefits for employees and their family, 401k retirement plan with 5% match, 100% employer-paid life and long-term disability insurance, and paid time off. NBR's paid time off includes 10 days of vacation (awarded as 3.33 hours per pay period), 25 paid company holidays per year, (including 2 floating holidays), 56 hours of paid sick leave per year (prorated for first year), and 5 days of paid professional development leave. Additionally, NBR offers 4-weeks of paid Sabbatical leave for all full-time staff after every 5 years of service. NBR covers 80% of employees' Public Transit commuting costs.

NBR is committed to a workplace where inclusion is not only valued but prioritized. We're an equal opportunity employer and strive to create a welcoming and diverse environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, pregnancy or parental status, creed, military or veteran status, religion, ancestry, or national origin, disability, or other status or characteristic protected by applicable law.

If you need assistance and/or a reasonable accommodation due to a disability during either the application or the recruiting process, please email your request to employment@nbr.org.