Research & Innovation Program Manager

Research & Innovation Program Manager

The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) is recruiting for a Research & Innovation Program Manager. This position is responsible for managing and administering the operations and activities of the MDT Research Program, the Experimental Projects Program, and the Technology Transfer Program, as well as the Department's library and related services. Develops and executes a strategic research roadmap aligned with MDT's goals and FHWA's State Planning & Research (SPR) program. Engages internal and external partners, including universities, FHWA, and local agencies to advance the Department's research and innovation agenda. Guides the full research lifecycle ensuring research project outcomes benefit programs statewide. Serves as the agency's primary liaison for federal research committees and programs. This position reports to the Business Solutions Office Lead and directly supervises three professional staff: two Research Project Managers and the Department Librarian.

Benefits of working for MDT and the State of Montana include:

• Culture of public service and a commitment to work/life balance
• Potential hybrid remote work arrangement available
• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Access to Montana Health Centers, low-cost clinics for state employees and their families
• State Retirement plan and additional savings opportunities (deferred compensation)
• Employees in this position receive overtime compensation or compensatory time for all time in a pay status over 40 hours in a workweek
• Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays
• Eligibility for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness
• Benefits apply on first day of employment
• Relocation assistance may be offered to the successful candidate at the time of offer

Required Application Materials:

• A resume detailing your qualifications and work history.
• A cover letter of no more than two pages addressing your qualifications for the position.

Your online application and all required materials must be submitted before midnight on the closing date. Ensure all materials submitted are selected as "Relevant."

Required Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in business, science, transportation or a closely related field. OR 4 years of related experience in lieu of a degree.
• 4 years of progressive experience in program administration, transportation research or project and portfolio management.
• 1 year of supervisory or team lead experience.
• Alternative combinations of related experience and education may be considered.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge of project and portfolio management principles.
• Skills in stakeholder engagement and collaboration.
• Ability to facilitate meetings with a variety of stakeholders.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Other Information:

• The advertised salary includes the 2.5% increase passed by the 2025 MT State Legislature regarding the state pay plan effective July 1, 2026.
• Driver's record will be verified.
• Successful applicants will be required to sign a release form which authorizes the Department to obtain the applicant's permanent driving records.
• Compliance with Mont. Admin. R. 2.6.201, "State Vehicle Use," and MDT Policy #6.03.001, "State Vehicle Use Policy" are conditions of employment.
• The Montana Department of Transportation is an equal opportunity employer. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, people with disabilities, and veterans and disabled veterans are encouraged to apply. People with disabilities needing assistance in the application process, or those needing this job announcement in an alternative format may call the Human Resources and Occupational Safety Division, at View phone number on click.appcast.io.
• The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) is committed to continuous improvement of our employee safety program and our safety and health processes, and to achieving an injury-free workplace.
• Proof of eligibility to work in the United States must be provided if selected for hire. Generally, sponsorship for work authorization is not available through the State of Montana.
• Effective 5/26/2026, MDT is participating in E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility. After accepting a job offer and completing the Form I-9, your information will be submitted to the Department of Homeland Security and the Social Security Administration for verification.