Program Director – Research and Technology
About The Position
The Program Director for Technology & Change Management is a high-impact leadership role responsible for bridging the gap between cutting-edge technology and organizational evolution. You will lead the identification, vetting, and implementation of technology solutions designed to modernize agency operations and advance large-scale change management initiatives. You will also support delivery of leading research to synthesize, distill, and inform best practice technology applications for NCDOT. This role isn't just about software; it’s about people and process. You will oversee a multidisciplinary team of 5-7 professionals, including internal staff and external consultants, ensuring that technology investments align with the DOT’s long-term vision for safety, efficiency, and infrastructure resilience.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree from an appropriately accredited institution and five (5) years of program experience in the area of assignment, including three years of managerial experience in the public or private sectors involving significant decision-making authority in the planning, organizing and directing of operations in the areas of the assigned program(s); or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Demonstrated ability to lead large scale initiatives, manage schedule and budgets and drive results
- Knowledge of Change Management Frameworks such as Prosci/ADKAR or Kotter’s 8-Step Process
- Working knowledge of state procurement processes especially as they relate to compliance with NCDOT and NCDIT-T requirements
- Knowledge of modern infrastructure tech, geospatial data (GIS), project management software, and enterprise-level digital transformation
- Demonstrated ability to manage hybrid teams of internal employees and high-rate external consultants
Responsibilities
- Identify and prioritize technology solutions (SaaS, AI/ML, Data Analytics, Enterprise Resource Planning) that support agency-wide change initiatives.
- Develop strategies to ensure high adoption rates of new technologies, minimizing resistance and maximizing organizational ROI.
- Lead the full lifecycle of technology projects, from initial feasibility studies and business case development to post-implementation review.
- Serve as the primary translator between technical IT teams and non-technical department heads to ensure tools meet actual operational needs.
- Manage two teams of 4–6 individuals, providing mentorship, performance evaluations, and daily work direction for both FTEs and specialized external consultants.
- Oversee project budgets and lead the procurement process for new vendors, ensuring compliance with state regulations.
Benefits
- a variety of leave options
- professional development opportunities
- insurance
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Manager
