Strategic Ecosystem Lead for Defense Tech OnRamp (NC)

RTI International; Few (NC); On-site; USD 138,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

RTI International in North Carolina is seeking an Ecosystem Engagement Lead for the DIU OnRamp Hub to expand outreach, engagement, and pipeline development across regional partners. You will cultivate relationships with startups, universities, VC firms, nonprofits, accelerators, and government, coordinate technical reviews, and translate mission needs into actionable scouting and engagement plans.

The role requires travel up to 40%, onsite work, and a proven ability to manage multiple

Qualifications

• Master’s degree or equivalent with 5+ years of relevant experience.
• Proven ability to design and execute stakeholder outreach strategies.
• Experience building relationships with startups, universities, and industry partners.

Responsibilities

• Develops outreach and pipeline development strategies for NC DIU OnRamp Hub.
• Maintains relationships with startups, universities, venture firms, and DoW partners.
• Oversees technology scouting and coordinates reviews against mission needs.
• Ensures ecosystem intelligence is current and pipelines are diverse.

Skills

Stakeholder outreach

Relationship management

Facilitation

Written and verbal communication

Project management

Education

Master’s degree in a relevant field

Tools

CRM systems

Job description

RTI International in North Carolina is seeking an Ecosystem Engagement Lead for the DIU OnRamp Hub to expand outreach, engagement, and pipeline development across regional partners. You will cultivate relationships with startups, universities, VC firms, nonprofits, accelerators, and government, coordinate technical reviews, and translate mission needs into actionable scouting and engagement plans.

The role requires travel up to 40%, onsite work, and a proven ability to manage multiple