Innovation Program Manager

Jefferson County CO•Golden, CO

2d•$120,000 - $140,000•Hybrid

About The Position

The Innovation Program Manager leads the Innovation function within Jefferson County’s Business Innovation & Technology department. This supervisor oversees a multidisciplinary team and a portfolio of programs and initiatives focused on addressing complex organizational challenges, testing new approaches, and exploring emerging technologies. The role sets priorities, develops staff, builds partnerships across the organization, and contributes significantly to the County’s exploration and responsible use of artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies. The position follows a four-day work week, Monday through Thursday. With supervisor approval, employees may instead work a five-day week. The role is hybrid, with remote and in-office work determined by business need. The hiring range is $120,000–$140,000 annually, with compensation determined by education, experience, and skills. Jefferson County offers medical, dental, and vision insurance; paid time off and holidays, including a 40-hour starting PTO bank for new hires; retirement matching; wellness programs; and tuition reimbursement. The position is subject to CJIS security requirements, including background screening, fingerprinting, and required security training.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, Information Technology, Organizational Development, or a related field; an equivalent combination of education and experience is acceptable.
Five years of work-related experience in innovation, technology, business analysis, program management, organizational improvement, digital transformation, consulting, or a related field.
Ability to foster trust and open communication and create an inclusive, respectful, supportive environment.
Ability to communicate clearly and transparently, set expectations, explain decisions, and adapt communication to different audiences.
Ability to act with integrity and accountability, make ethical decisions, follow through on commitments, and take responsibility for outcomes.
Ability to collaborate in problem-solving, build working relationships, seek input, manage conflict professionally, and work across teams.
Ability to develop and coach others through constructive feedback, support for growth and learning, recognition of strengths, and skill development.
If driving on County business in a County or personal vehicle is required, a valid Colorado driver’s license is required within 30 days of hire or beginning service as an intern or volunteer.
Successful completion of applicable pre-employment screening, which may include criminal history, motor vehicle report, education verification, and references.
Successful completion of CJIS-required background screening, including fingerprinting, and required CJIS security training; continued employment and authorized access may depend on meeting and maintaining these requirements.

Nice To Haves

At least two years of supervisory experience.
Experience supervising and developing professional employees and leading multiple concurrent areas of work.
Demonstrated ability to turn complex or poorly defined problems into practical paths toward action.
Experience evaluating, piloting, implementing, or governing technology.

Responsibilities

Supervise, coach, and develop a multidisciplinary team of professional staff, limited-term employees, and interns.
Manage hiring, performance, professional development, and other personnel responsibilities.
Set priorities and goals for the Innovation function, allocate team capacity, and oversee a portfolio of programs, projects, pilots, and services.
Advance complex or ambiguous organizational problems by defining opportunities, identifying resources and stakeholders, and establishing practical paths toward action.
Identify and scope meaningful projects for staff with varying levels of experience and time horizons, including interns and limited-term employees.
Oversee the Jeffco Innovation Lab, internship and fellowship programs, partnerships, and related initiatives.
Lead the team’s research, evaluation, piloting, and recommendations regarding potential organizational use of emerging technologies.
Help develop and operationalize Jefferson County’s approach to artificial intelligence governance and responsible AI use.
Build relationships across County departments and collaborate with business analysts, project managers, Training and Communications, cybersecurity, technical teams, vendors, and external partners.
Develop external partnerships and identify opportunities to leverage grants and other resources for Innovation priorities.
Manage applicable budgets, contracts, vendors, and other program resources.
Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.