Technical Programs Manager at American Academy of Ophthalmology

About Us

The American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO.org), the world’s largest association of eye physicians and surgeons, hosts the largest ophthalmic meeting and Expo in the world, attracting 20,000 attendees and more than 300 exhibiting companies. The Scientific Program Team manages 5,000 presenters, 30 course and session rooms, 500 posters and a virtual meeting running simultaneously to enable attendees worldwide to receive continuing medical education.

Position Summary

The Technical Programs Manager plays a critical role in delivering the Academy’s Annual Meeting scientific program, overseeing all Skills Transfer Courses (51 labs and 28 didactic sessions). These high-stakes, hands-on training labs provide ophthalmologists with intensive surgical and diagnostic instruction using specimens and state-of-the-art equipment. In this role, you will partner with physician leaders, industry partners, and staff to ensure the seamless execution of these programs while also managing key meeting services such as freight, first aid, EyePlay Lounge, and sustainability initiatives.

This position carries significant financial and operational responsibility, including securing over $5M annually in in-kind equipment donations and generating $162,000 in ticket revenue. The Technical Programs Manager ensures AAO’s educational programs remain cutting-edge, safe, and financially sustainable.

Role and Responsibilities

Skills Transfer Program (50%)

• Manage Skills Transfer Advisory Committee, 60+ course directors, and 15 course monitors.
• Oversee course applications, scheduling, compliance, and survey evaluation.
• Secure, coordinate, and track all equipment/supplies from 50+ industry partners.
• Negotiate, submit, and reconcile online grant requests, achieving ~$5M in cost savings.
• Supervise 5 room supervisors and 10–20 assistants during Annual Meeting labs.
• Ensure OSHA compliance, infectious disease waivers, and safe handling/disposal of specimens.

Meeting Services (20%)

• Oversee first aid contracting and staffing.
• Manage Annual Meeting freight logistics, including vendor contracting, labeling, and scheduling.
• Coordinate development of staff shirts and distribution.

EyePlay Lounge (10%)

• Develop and implement EyePlay, including budget, floorplans, content, and staffing.

AUPO SCOR & Cornea Society Labs (10%)

• Partner with program directors to plan and implement specialty labs, including equipment procurement, ticketing, setup, compliance, and staff supervision.

Sustainability (10%)

• Serve as liaison to sustainability vendor, coordinating waste reduction, recycling, and sustainable catering with facility and staff partners.
• Collaborate with the Academy’s Sustainability Committee.

Qualifications, Skills, and Education Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience required.
• 5+ years’ experience in meeting or program management, preferably in healthcare/medical associations.
• Knowledge of surgical/medical supplies and equipment highly desirable.
• Strong skills in budget management, contract negotiation, logistics, and vendor management.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and database systems.
• CMP (Certified Meeting Professional) certification preferred.
• Strong communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills; ability to manage multiple complex projects under pressure.
• Ability to supervise and motivate temporary staff.

Other Requirements

• Travel required (6–12 days annually).
• Hybrid schedule: 40% in office.
• Occasional evening/weekend work required during events.

Compensation

Salary for this position is $123,518 with excellent benefits.