Defense Tech Programs Lead: Field Testing

University of Louisville; Louisville (KY); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Louisville is seeking a Research Projects Program Manager to lead testing and validation experiences supporting DoD priorities. The role directs event planning, scenario development, and team coordination to deliver program objectives within a grant-funded framework.

The position requires a security clearance eligibility, in-person work, and collaboration with military, academic, and industry partners. Funding extends through August 15, 2027, contingent on funds availability.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Engineering, Defense Studies, Systems Engineering, Operations Management, or substantially related field with four years of relevant experience.

Responsibilities

• Serve as primary point of contact for DoD sponsors and stakeholders.
• Design, plan, and execute technology testing events, field exercises, and validation experiences that simulate real-world operational conditions relevant to defense priorities.
• Coordinate with military stakeholders, subject matter experts, academic partners, and industry participants to develop test scenarios, success criteria, and evaluation frameworks.
• Oversee project planning, scheduling, and resource allocation to ensure milestones and deliverables are met.
• Assign roles and responsibilities to project staff and ensure clear communication across all functional areas.
• Manage logistics and operational execution for field demonstrations, prototype testing, and technology assessment events.
• Communicate across academic, industry, defense, and federal funding landscapes.
• Track participant progress, testing outcomes, metrics, and program impact; generate reports and demonstrate measurable outcomes.
• Develop after-action reports, lessons learned, and recommendations for refinement and transition opportunities.

Education

Master's degree in Engineering, Defense Studies, Systems Engineering, Operations Management, or substantially related fields

Job description

The University of Louisville is seeking a Research Projects Program Manager to lead testing and validation experiences supporting DoD priorities. The role directs event planning, scenario development, and team coordination to deliver program objectives within a grant-funded framework.

The position requires a security clearance eligibility, in-person work, and collaboration with military, academic, and industry partners. Funding extends through August 15, 2027, contingent on funds availability.