Program Director

The Office of Research at Washington State University (WSU) is responsible for advancing the research enterprise at WSU systemwide. The Office of Research facilitates all aspects of the research from pre-award to compliance, advancement, development, and commercialization. The Office of Research amplifies WSU's land-grant mission by partnering with the university community, industry leaders, and other stakeholders to advance, extend, and grow the positive impact of WSU research for the state, region, and nation.

The Program Director serves as the operational leader responsible for the day-to-day management, execution, and performance of the Washington Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) OnRamp Hub. Working under the direction of the Managing Director, this position oversees implementation of DIU OnRamp Hub standardized services, coordination of stakeholder engagement, management of Digital Backbone reporting requirements, execution of Hub programming and events, monitoring of performance metrics, budget coordination, and achievement of key operational milestones.

The Program Director plays a critical role in translating strategy into execution by coordinating ecosystem intelligence, mission engagement, technology scouting, readiness assessment, validation support, and transition activities that connect commercial innovation with Department of War mission needs. The position ensures that Hub activities remain aligned with DIU priorities and performance expectations while fostering collaboration among defense, academic, industry, entrepreneurial, investment, and regional innovation partners.

Through effective program management, stakeholder engagement, and operational oversight, the Program Director supports the advancement of defense innovation outcomes, strengthen regional innovation capacity, and accelerate the transition of dual-use technologies to mission applications.

• 25% Program Operations and Execution
• 15% Stakeholder Engagement and Partnership Management
• 15% Event and Program Management
• 15% Reporting, Performance Metrics, and Compliance
• 10% Budget Administration and Financial Coordination
• 10% Strategic Planning and Organizational Development
• 5% Facilities and Resource Management
• 5% Other Duties as Assigned

Screening Begin Date:
This position will remain open until filled. Screening of applicants will begin on Friday, October 23, 2026.

This is a full-time (100% FTE), temporary position. This position is overtime exempt.

Temporary End Date:
This is a temporary position expected to end on October 31, 2028. Renewal is dependent on the need for extension and/or if additional funding is secured to extend employment.

Monthly Salary: $11,397.13 - $16,666.67 | Commensurate with experience and qualifications In accordance with RCW 49.58.110, the above salary reflects the full salary range for this position. Individual placement within the range is based on the candidate’s current experience, education, skills, and abilities related to the position.

• WSU offers a comprehensive benefits package which includes paid sick and vacation leave; paid holidays; medical, dental, life and disability insurance package for employees and dependents; retirement; deferred compensation, optional supplemental retirement accounts; training and development; and employee tuition waiver.
• For additional information, please review the detailed Summary of Benefits offered by WSU for AP staff and Total Compensation.

• A Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field and six (6) years of progressively responsible relevant experience, which has included at least three (3) years of managerial experience.
• Any combination of relevant education and…