Fast Facts

Nelnet is seeking an IT Project Manager to lead and manage complex technology projects while fostering teamwork and ensuring alignment between technical and business stakeholders. This role is perfect for individuals passionate about project leadership and IT innovation, looking to make an impact in a collaborative work environment.

Responsibilities: The Project Manager will oversee one or more project teams to meet objectives, manage project plans and budgets, coordinate testing and support, and evaluate progress using performance metrics. Additionally, the manager will lead problem resolution and ensure effective communication with internal and external stakeholders.

Skills: Key skills include experience in software development, proficiency in Jira, Confluence, SharePoint, strong analytical abilities, and the capacity to bridge technical and business aspects effectively throughout the project lifecycle.

Qualifications: The ideal candidate holds a Bachelor's degree in information science or a related field, possesses PMP or PMI-ACP certification, and has experience leading technical teams in a matrix organization, coupled with hands-on expertise in modern development practices.

Location: This is a remote position based in Nebraska, USA, with a hybrid work environment for local associates.

Compensation: $85000 - $115000 / Annually

Nelnet is a diversified and innovative company committed to enriching lives through the power of service as a student loan servicer, professional services company, consumer loan originator and servicer, payments processor, renewable energy solutions, and K-12 and higher education expert. For over 40 years, Nelnet has been serving its customers, associates, and communities.

The perks of working at Nelnet go beyond our benefits package. When you join the Nelnet team, you're part of a community invested in the success of each individual. That support comes through in our work, as we are united by our mission of creating opportunities for people where they live, learn, and work.

Are you ready to lead dynamic and high-impact projects that drive success? We’re looking for an enthusiastic and results-driven Project Manager with a strong foundation in technology and software development to join our team! In this role, you will take charge of managing, directing, and planning complex projects, overseeing multiple cross-functional teams to achieve outstanding results.

You’ll be at the heart of coordinating and scheduling project tasks, building strong, collaborative teams, and providing inspiring leadership. Your ability to forge and maintain positive relationships with both internal teams and external customers will be key to ensuring seamless project execution.

By applying Agile methodologies, you’ll keep projects on track and provide clear, real-time updates on progress. This role is ideal for someone who thrives at the intersection of project leadership and technical execution—someone who can speak the language of developers, understand system architecture, and drive innovation through technology.

If you’re passionate about delivering exceptional results, driving innovation, and fostering a positive, collaborative work environment, this is the perfect role for you!

Join us and make an impact that will take your career—and our projects—to the next level!

This position requires work in support of the Company’s contract with the United States Department of Education (“ED”). As such, the United States Government requires that any applicant for this position must complete United States Government security clearance. Effective June 1, 2018, ED has informed Nelnet that security clearance applications for foreign nationals are not being accepted or processed. In light of this direction from ED, Nelnet will be unable to hire applicants without United States citizenship for such positions.

Nelnet values flexibility and understands the importance of work-life integration. Our hybrid work environment allows associates living within 30 miles of an office location to work remotely for part of the week, while also fostering collaboration and team connection through in-office presence three days a week.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Manages and directs one or more project teams to meet project objectives.
• Reviews, evaluates, and formulates project plans, schedules, and budgets.
• Oversees requirements solicitation and definition for the projects.
• Manages staff and budget resources required to meet changing corporate needs. 
• Understanding, and persuades others when appropriate.
• Identifies and negotiates schedules, milestones, and resources required to meet project objectives.
• Leads problem resolution and decision making through facilitation and troubleshooting.
• Organizes and guides project operations through the use of industry-accepted methodologies.
• Evaluates progress and reports progress in terms of quality and performance metrics common to IT projects.
• Works with various departments to coordinate systems testing, installation, training, and support.

EDUCATION: 

• Bachelor's degree in information science or related field and/or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• PMP or PMI-ACP certification preferred.

EXPERIENCE: 

• Experience in leading teams of developers, analysts, architects and engineers preferably in a matrix organization. 
• Expert level experience working with Jira, Confluence, SharePoint, and managing data in Excel.
• Strong background in software development and technology is required. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with modern development practices, technical architecture, and a deep understanding of IT systems and infrastructure.

COMPETENCIES – SKILLS/KNOWLEDGE/ABILITIES:

• Ability to manage projects from inception to successful post-implementation.
• Demonstrated competency in developing effective solutions to successfully resolve diverse and complex business problems. 
• Strong analytical, communications, technical teamwork, and interpersonal skills. 
• Must be proficient in Jira, Confluence, and SharePoint and preferably experienced with other database utilities and other Microsoft technologies.
• Assesses and manages project risks and dependencies.
• Ability to bridge the gap between technical teams and business stakeholders, ensuring alignment and clarity throughout the project lifecycle.

Pay range for this role is $85,000-$115,000 annually, depending on experience.

Our benefits package includes medical, dental, vision, HSA and FSA, generous earned time off, 401K/student loan repayment, life insurance & AD&D insurance, employee assistance program, employee stock purchase program, tuition reimbursement, performance-based incentive pay, short- and long-term disability, and a robust wellness program. Click here to learn more about our benefits: LINK.

Nelnet is committed to providing a welcoming and respectful workplace where all associates have the opportunity to succeed. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we ensure that all qualified applicants are considered for employment. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion/creed, national origin, gender, sex, marital status, age, disability, use of a guide dog or service animal, sexual orientation, military/veteran status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local law. We value the unique contributions of every team member and believe that a positive work environment benefits everyone. 

Qualified individuals with disabilities who require reasonable accommodations in order to apply or compete for positions at Nelnet may request such accommodations by contacting Corporate Recruiting at 402-486-5725 orcorporaterecruiting@nelnet.net.

Nelnet is a Drug Free and Tobacco Free Workplace.