Project Manager (Ann Arbor)

Welcome to Menlo Innovations! We're a custom software design & development firm with a unique mission: to return joy and end human suffering in the world as it relates to teams and technology by rigorously applying and teaching The Menlo Way®. Our primary goal has always been to return joy to technology, for end users, our clients, and our team.

Rooted in Agile and Scrum style methodologies, our approach to product development is unique in several ways. We work in pairs, are fanatic about test-driven development (TDD) and employ a user-centered design process called High-Tech Anthropology®. These three elements of our process work in concert to ensure quality and mitigate IT project risk. We work with companies in a wide range of industries and domains, from Fortune 500 manufacturers to small local startups. An important part of our work at Menlo includes transforming client teams through deliberate co-creation. We also enjoy sharing our knowledge with others through a variety of tours and hands-on workshops focused on teaching The Menlo Way®.

Job Overview:

The Project Manager is the client’s trusted partner throughout the lifecycle of a project. They pair with the client weekly to review progress, plan priorities, and course correct as needed. They understand the client’s goals and vision and help them to achieve these by utilizing The Menlo Way®.

Acting as a servant leader, the Project Manager shields the team from administrative tasks, manages client communication, and helps remove roadblocks. They also create and maintain tools like storycards and planning boards while coordinating team logistics to keep work moving smoothly.

While a Project Manager needs to be organized and track many different details, they also need to use their skills of empathy, communication, and caring to help the team succeed. When problems arise, they guide the team and client toward effective solutions. A great Project Manager makes this complex role look effortless!

Job Responsibilities:

• Partner with the client to understand goals, plan priorities, and ensure transparency around scope, budget, and progress
• Act as the primary point of contact, maintaining strong client relationships and keeping communication clear and consistent
• Facilitate team meetings and create/maintain project tools that support planning, prioritization, and decision-making
• Monitor project health, identify risks or roadblocks, and guide course corrections when needed
• Support the team by managing logistics, balancing resources, and fostering growth through feedback and mentorship
• Keep client apprised of project and budget status
• Advocate for both client success and team well-being, ensuring alignment with The Menlo Way®

Qualifications:

• Strong organizational skills with the ability to balance big-picture vision and day-to-day project details
• Can self manage and prioritize time across multiple projects and responsibilities
• Excellent communication and consulting skills, able to collaborate effectively with clients and team members
• Adaptable and quick learner, comfortable stepping into new domains, roles, or technical discussions when needed
• Familiar with Agile/Scrum practices
• Comfortable working in Excel
• Proactive, pragmatic, and resilient—embracing experimentation, problem-solving, and The Menlo Way®
• Empathetic leader who supports team growth and fosters a collaborative, caring environment
• Commitment to work full time, in-person in Ann Arbor, MI (This is not a hybrid or remote work assignment)

Benefits:

• Health insurance (73% - 87% subsidized with HSA options and generous employer contribution)
• Life & disability insurance
• Paid time off (20 days annually)
• 10 paid holidays per year
• 401(k) - with employer contribution (Traditional and Roth)
• Parking is reimbursed
• Menlo values work/life balance, and uses a unique paired staffing approach as a mechanism for employee development, cross-training, and delivering high-quality work products.

Menlo Innovations is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to providing a work environment that is free of discrimination and harassment. All employment decisions at Menlo Innovations are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic. We encourage applicants of all backgrounds to apply.