Innovation Project Manager

DEFENSEWERX•Vicksburg, MS

20h

About The Position

ERDCWERX (EWX), part of DEFENSEWERX, is a neutral facilitator and trusted counselor connecting individuals, businesses, educators, and government organizations to support Department of War customers. Based in Vicksburg, Mississippi, EWX works in direct partnership with the U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) and its seven laboratories, with onsite and remote worksite options and an emphasis on supporting ERDC labs in Illinois, Virginia, New Hampshire, and Mississippi. Reporting to the Senior Innovation Project Manager, the Innovation Project Manager connects ERDC with industry, academia, and government stakeholders to help transition innovative technologies and ideas into solutions. The position cultivates relationships, manages innovation projects and outreach, and supports ERDC research, testing and evaluation, acquisition opportunities, reimbursable services, and intellectual property commercialization. The role works across a diverse project portfolio to identify opportunities, foster collaboration, and achieve project outcomes. The position requires a bachelor's degree, preferably in engineering, science, business administration, or management, or a combination of education and experience, and at least 3–5 years of innovation-focused project management experience. Some travel is required (15–20%). Candidates must be able to pass a background check and successfully obtain and maintain a security clearance or ITAR license. The role occasionally involves assisting with movement of office supplies, materials, or equipment for on-site and off-site events.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree required, preferably in engineering, science, business administration, and/or management, or a combination of education and experience.
At least 3–5 years of experience in innovation-focused project management.
Demonstrated experience with project management, process improvement, team facilitation, public speaking, and problem-solving tools, preferably in support of innovation and in fast-paced environments.
Understanding of federal government contracting, technology transfer and commercialization, technology business start-ups, product development, and investment options.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint.
Proficiency with CRM/database software; HubSpot and Submittable are identified platforms.
Willingness and ability to travel 15–20%.
Ability to pass a background check.
Ability to successfully obtain and maintain a security clearance or successfully obtain and maintain an ITAR license.
Must not have conflicts of interest affecting DEFENSEWERX or its partners.
Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
Positive attitude, strong work ethic, professional attitude, and proactive interpersonal and communication skills.
Ability to multitask, work independently, maintain focus, and attend to detail.
Excellent time-management and organizational skills.
Technology savvy, quick to learn, collaborative, and focused on process improvement.
Ability to perform in a dynamic, rapidly changing environment and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced setting while driving results through collaboration.
Desire to serve, mentor, guide, and develop others and promote DEFENSEWERX core values and a positive working environment.
Genuine passion for advancing the DEFENSEWERX mission and creating a sustainable, thriving organization.
Occasionally assist with moving office supplies, materials, or equipment in support of on-site and off-site events.

Responsibilities

Collaborate with EWX team members to develop, coordinate, and advance project opportunities supporting the ERDC Office of Research and Technology Transfer, ERDC laboratories, and other ERDC entities.
Develop and maintain expertise in capabilities provided to EWX through the Partnership Intermediary Agreement (PIA).
Introduce EWX tools and capabilities and help ERDC and other stakeholders identify effective opportunities to engage EWX.
Maintain knowledge of ERDC strategic plans and objectives for technology transfer and transition.
Develop knowledge of ERDC laboratory team members, capabilities, and priorities, and apply it to project work.
Demonstrate proficiency in government acquisition and collaboration methods, including FAR, OTA/BOTAA, and Broad Agency Announcement.
Advise stakeholders on government intellectual property patenting and licensing methods and goals.
Develop, organize, and execute targeted communication and promotion strategies to strengthen industry and academic engagement and advance ERDC collaboration objectives.
Respond in a timely manner to internal and external inquiries about current and future project opportunities.
Support ERDC intellectual property commercialization and reimbursable services strategies by contributing to review and promotion of selected ERDC technologies and capabilities.
Facilitate group sessions for process mapping, project planning, and other objectives.
Plan and coordinate project details and track deliverables using digital platforms, including HubSpot and Submittable.
Conduct outreach by email, social media, phone, and in-person communication to share information and build a network of entities suited to ERDC project plans.
Conduct market research to expand contact lists for promoting individual projects.
Represent EWX at conferences, industry events, briefings, and speaking engagements to strengthen partnerships and advance organizational objectives.
Deliver virtual and in-person presentations to groups of varying sizes and at events.
Contribute to the growth and success of EWX and DEFENSEWERX.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Occasionally assist with moving office supplies, materials, or equipment for on-site and off-site events.