Innovation Project Manager

ERDCWERX - DEFENSEWERX is a neutral facilitator and trusted counselor, connecting a national network of individuals, businesses, educators and government organizations to enable creative and integrated solutions for our Department of War (DOW) customers. Located in Vicksburg MS, ERDCWERX (EWX) operates in direct partnership with the US Army Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) and its seven labs. EWX offers onsite and remote worksite options with emphasis on the direct support of ERDC’s labs in Illinois, Virginia, New Hampshire, and Mississippi.
JOB SUMMARY:
Reporting to the Senior Innovation Project Manager, the Innovation Project Manager serves as a strategic connector between the U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC), industry, academia, and government stakeholders to accelerate the transition of innovative technologies and ideas into impactful solutions.
This role is responsible for cultivating relationships, managing innovation-focused projects and outreach initiatives, and supporting efforts that advance ERDC research, testing and evaluation activities, acquisition opportunities, reimbursable services, and intellectual property commercialization.
The Innovation Project Manager works across a diverse portfolio of projects, engaging innovators, businesses, universities, and key partner organizations to identify opportunities, foster collaboration, and drive successful project outcomes. Successful candidates are proactive relationship builders who thrive in a dynamic environment and are passionate about advancing innovation from concept to impact.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
Collaborate with EWX team members to develop, coordinate, and advance project opportunities that support the ERDC Office of Research and Technology Transfer (ORTT), ERDC laboratories, and other ERDC entities
Develop and maintain expertise in the capabilities afforded EWX through the Partnership Intermediary Agreement (PIA)
Introduce EWX tools and capabilities; familiarize ERDC and other stakeholders regarding optimal opportunities to engage EWX
Maintain knowledge of ERDC strategic plans and objectives pertaining to technology transfer and transition
Cultivate and apply knowledge of ERDC lab team members, capabilities, and priorities
Demonstrate proficiency in government acquisition and collaboration methods including FAR, OTA/BOTAA, and Broad Agency Announcement
Advise stakeholders on government intellectual property (IP) 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
Provide timely response to inquiries from internal and external contacts regarding current and future project opportunities
Support ERDC’s IP commercialization and reimbursable services strategies by contributing to the review and promotion of select ERDC technologies and capabilities
Facilitate group sessions to support process mapping, project planning, and other objectives
Plan and coordinate project details and track important deliverables through the use of digital platforms including Hubspot and Submittable
Conduct outreach through email, social media, phone, and in-person communication to share information and foster a network of entities likely to fit ERDC project plans
Conduct market research to expand contact lists for the promotion of individual projects
Represent EWX at conferences, industry events, briefings, and speaking engagements to strengthen partnerships and advance organizational objectives
Make virtual and in-person presentations to various sized groups and events
Contribute to the growth and success of EWX and DWX
Other duties as assigned
QUALIFICATIONS:
Bachelors 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
Exhibit an understanding of federal government contracting, technology transfer and commercialization, technology business start-ups, product development, and investment options
Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint), CRM/database software (HubSpot, Submittable)
Some travel required (15-20%)
Occasionally assists with the movement of office supplies, materials, or equipment in support of on-site and off-site events.
While this job description is intended to be an accurate reflection of the essential job required, management reserves the rights to modify, add, or remove duties from jobs and to assign other duties as necessary.
OTHER KEY REQUIREMENTS:
Ability to pass a background check
Ability to successfully obtain and maintain a security clearance or successfully obtain and maintain ITAR license
Must not have any conflicts of interest affecting DWX or its partners
Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail
Positive attitude and great work ethic
Professional attitude with well-developed, pro-active interpersonal and communication skills required
Must be able to multi-task, work independently, maintain focus, and be detail-oriented
Requires excellent time management and organizational skills
Requires technology savvy, quick learner, team player, and process improvement focused
Must be willing and able to perform in a dynamic, rapidly changing environment
Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment and drive results through collaboration
Desire to serve, mentor, guide, and develop others and promote DWX core values and a positive working environment
Possess a genuine passion for advancing the DWX mission and creating a sustainable and thriving organization
CONDITIONS OF WORK:
Do whatever it takes to get the job done
Be a servant leader willing to share credit and own accountability
Be a part of a team
Bring a growth mindset and be open to learning and coaching
DEFENSEWERX VALUES:
Teamwork: Leverage our strengths to achieve our objectives
Integrity: Honor commitments to all those we serve
Excellence: Deliver clear and measurable outcomes aligned to program and partner objectives
Empathy: Truly seek to understand and value others' place and position
Innovation: Advance the art of the possible
Applications will be accepted from all qualified persons. DEFENSEWERX does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, parental status, military service, or other nonmerit factor. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Applicants requiring reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process should contact DEFENSEWERX directly.
While this job description is intended to be an accurate reflection of the essential job required, management reserves the rights to modify, add, or remove duties from jobs and to assign other duties as necessary.

Employment type
Full-Time

Work arrangement
No