Innovation Strategist (Operations & Policy Analyst 4)

Oregon Business Development Department • Portland, OR

398d • $10,161 - $82,812

About The Position

The Innovation Strategist (Operations & Policy Analyst 4) at Business Oregon is responsible for supporting the development and execution of the state's Innovation Plan, guided by the Oregon Innovation Council. This role involves managing various innovation-based economic development programs, utilizing expertise in economic development, project management, and emerging technologies to enhance Oregon's innovation environment. The position offers flexibility, including remote work options, while requiring occasional travel for project visits and meetings.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's Degree in Business or Public Administration, Behavioral or Social Sciences, Finance, Political Science, or any degree demonstrating the capacity for the knowledge and skills.
• Five years of professional-level evaluative, analytical, and planning work experience, or equivalent experience and education totaling eight years.

Nice To Haves

• Experience planning, executing, and tracking programs and projects.
• Experience with solicitations for proposals, proposal evaluation, and contract management.
• Knowledge of public and private sector operations and experience building partnerships across sectors.
• Ability to manage relationships with various partners and understand their needs.
• Experience supporting innovators or deploying innovative technology.
• Capacity to grasp new technologies and concepts related to program support.
• Ability to work independently on complex projects and manage multiple programs simultaneously.
• Experience guiding diverse groups toward common objectives.
• Proficiency in written and verbal communication tools.

Responsibilities

• Serve as co-lead staff for the Oregon Innovation Council (Oregon InC) members, supported organizations, and universities.
• Manage various Oregon InC programs and projects to establish a robust innovation environment in Oregon.
• Support the Centers of Innovation Excellence, the SBIR Support Program, and commercialization funding by conducting qualitative and quantitative analyses of current programs.
• Coordinate interaction between Oregon InC supported initiatives and companies, and other business development entities within OBDD.
• Support external and internal stakeholder groups in alignment with Oregon InC goals.
• Facilitate collaboration and manage project steps to meet Oregon InC objectives.
• Support the development of biennial state Innovation Plans and serve as program administrator for Oregon InC programs.
• Act as contract administrator and strategic advisor for the Oregon Manufacturing Innovation Center (OMIC).
• Work with partners to implement the department's state-wide focus on innovation.
• Improve metrics and reporting processes for all Oregon InC programs, including the Innovation Index.
• Develop legislative policy and budget recommendations to support high-growth, innovation-based economic development.
• Advocate for innovation-related legislation consistent with Business Oregon priorities.
• Research and implement funding opportunities to enhance resources for Oregon's innovation-based businesses.

Benefits

• Paid time off, 11 holidays, 3 personal days, and optional short- and long-term disability benefits.
• Comprehensive employee benefits including choice of medical plans, vision plan, life insurance, and employee assistance program.
• Pension plan, deferred compensation, and flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care.
• Employee recognition events and unique recognition programs allowing for additional leave options.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree
• Number of Employees: 101-250 employees