Applied Research Coordinator 2026-02341

State of Wyoming•Cheyenne, WY

14d•Hybrid

About The Position

WYDOT’s Innovation, Research, and Asset Performance (IRAP) Program is seeking a driven professional to serve as our Applied Research Coordinator. In this role, you’ll oversee the entire lifecycle of WYDOT's research initiatives from idea to implementation. This unique opportunity will allow you to use your talent and passion to bridge the gap between academic research and real-world transportation improvements. This position serves as chairperson of WYDOT’s Research Advisory Committee (RAC), working closely with university researchers and WYDOT project champions to deliver high value transportation research outcomes. Key responsibilities of this position include evaluating incoming project proposals, administering contracts, ensuring timely project delivery, and monitoring WYDOT’s annual research budget. Most importantly, though, this role has the opportunity to translate theoretical research into tangible, real-world value by ensuring research results are implemented. Collaborate with IRAP staff and WYDOT program managers to define, execute, and measure specific implementation strategies for all conducted research. Join us, and help execute a vision that transforms innovative research into a smarter, safer, and more efficient transportation system for Wyoming. Cheyenne is a steadily growing community along the Front Range but still true to the history of the Old West. The city offers nearby mountain biking, skiing, hiking, fishing, hunting, and other outdoor activities. Wyoming is one of only nine states with no state income tax. This position offers: $2,000 Hiring Bonus See notes for eligibility

Requirements

Skill in effective communication across varied groups and individuals and with proficiency in technical writing
A positive, team-oriented mindset with a proven ability to develop strong professional relationships
Knowledge of basic contract administration and financial management principles
Highly organized with the self-motivation to manage multiple priorities
Project management expertise necessary to oversee multiple simultaneous projects, track milestones, and ensure timely deliverables
Ability to facilitate and lead formal technical meetings
Proficiency with everyday office tools (Microsoft Office, Google Workspace), and basic database reporting
Bachelor's Degree (typically in Business)
0-3 years of progressive work experience (typically in Business) with acquired knowledge at the level of a Grants and Contracts Administration Specialist II OR 4-6 years of progressive work experience (typically in Business) with acquired knowledge at the level of a Grants and Contracts Administration Specialist II

Nice To Haves

Proven ability to build and sustain collaborative relationships across all levels of the Department, the public, and key stakeholder groups.

Responsibilities

Organizes and leads biannual meetings of the WYDOT Research Advisory Committee (RAC) and serve as chairperson
Reviews incoming research proposals and problem statements, integrate feedback from Program Managers, and conducts comprehensive literature searches to verify research originality
Works with researchers to establish project milestones and schedules and monitors progress
Provides quality control review of draft research project reports to ensure technical accuracy, proper formatting, and actionable recommendations
Monitors and tracks the implementation of research project results and develops simple metrics to measure savings to the Department from implemented research culminating in the publication of an annual research implementation report
Focuses on implementing critical research to maximize the benefit to WYDOT
Collaborates with IRAP and Agency Services staff to provide implementation support to ensure research results are put into practice
Monitors the research program annual budget, tracks active project costs, forecasts future expenditures, and evaluates fee proposals and changes orders for approval
Represents the Program/Department at regional and national transportation research groups, including TRB, NCHRP, and AASHTO and network with other state DOTs to foster cross-state collaboration
Encourages internal innovation at WYDOT by supporting in-house research studies, product evaluations, and experimental training activities
Researches emerging trends and identifies new opportunities in the transportation sector
Collaborates with WYDOT internal programs and build relationships with outside entities, including research institutions and vendors
Coordinates with WYDOT programs on responses to nationwide studies to ensure the Department provides accurate and timely input
Initiates and drafts research contracts and amendments, coordinating with the WYDOT Grants and Contracts Policy Program and the Attorney General’s office for final approval