Technical Research & Industry Development Lead

Job Summary

We are seeking a motivated and technically versatile professional to support the development of industry-focused research initiatives and strategic partnerships. This role works closely with the CIEST Laboratory Director to identify emerging opportunities, develop project concepts, engage with industry stakeholders, and prepare compelling research proposals that lead to externally funded collaborative projects.

We look for a candidate who combines broad technical knowledge across multiple engineering disciplines with strong proposal writing and business development awareness, and the persistence needed to develop projects from early concepts through funding and execution.

Position offers 50% FTE (part‑time) with possibility of full‑time conversion after development of active projects.

The Department of Civil, Environmental and Architectural Engineering is dedicated to educating undergraduate and graduate students to become leaders in the professional practice of engineering, contributing to technological advances that benefit humankind while enhancing the earth’s physical and biological resources.

We foster an inclusive environment and celebrate diversity. We are committed to fostering inclusive excellence.

• Industry Opportunity Development & Strategic Outreach
  • Work closely with the Laboratory Director to identify emerging research and commercialization opportunities
  • Develop one-page technical concept summaries and project pitches for industry engagement
  • Research industrial market needs, technology gaps, and funding opportunities
  • Identify potential academic‑industry collaboration opportunities across multiple sectors
• Research Proposal Development
  • Lead preparation of technical research proposals for industry‑sponsored projects
  • Develop technical narratives, statements of work, research objectives, and deliverables
  • Develop project frames (schedules, milestones, budgets, and documents)
  • Coordinate proposal development among faculty, researchers, technical staff, and external partners
  • Align laboratory capabilities with evolving industrial priorities
  • Translate broad technical concepts into clear and compelling project plans
  • Maintain strong awareness of contemporary and emerging technologies and potential markets leading to commercialization
• Communication & Collaboration
  • Engage professionally with faculty, researchers, industry representatives, and technical teams
  • Facilitate technical discussions and collaborative planning meetings
  • Communicate complex engineering concepts clearly to both technical and non‑technical audiences
  • Support long‑term partnership development and relationship management

A background check will be required in accordance with the Boulder Campus Background Check Policy.

Salary range: $50,000 to $55,000 per year. Relocation assistance not available.

The University of Colorado Boulder offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and retirement plans; generous paid time off; tuition assistance for the employee and dependents; and an ECO Pass for local transit. Additional programs are available through the CU Advantage program.

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Applied Science, Technology, or related technical field required
• Minimum 3 years of experience in:
  • Technical proposal development
  • Research program development for academia or industry
  • Engineering project development or technical business development
• Demonstrated track record of developing proposals that resulted in funded or implemented projects
• Strong technical writing and proposal preparation skills
• Broad technical literacy across multiple engineering and technology domains
• Strong interpersonal communication and relationship‑building skills

• Advanced degree in Engineering, Science, Technology Management, or related field
• Experience working within university research environments, national laboratories, or R&D organizations
• Experience engaging with industrial sponsors and corporate research groups
• Familiarity with sponsored research processes and contract/project development
• Knowledge of emerging technology ecosystems and industrial innovation trends

The position is open until February 2026. The University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.