Technical Research&Industry Development Lead, Boulder

Technical Research&Industry Proposal Development Lead

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 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.The ideal candidate combines broad technical knowledge across multiple engineering disciplines with strong proposal writing, business development awareness, and the persistence needed to develop projects from early concepts through funding and execution. As an initial appointment, position offers 50% FTE (i.e., part-time), with the possibility of full-time conversion per development of active projects.The Technical Research&Industry Proposal Development Lead will help initiate and shape new research projects by identifying industrial needs, aligning them with laboratory capabilities, and developing strategic project concepts for academic-industry collaborations. The role begins with early-stage opportunity development, including preparation of concise one-page concept summaries ("project pitches") for outreach to potential industry partners. Upon positive engagement, the candidate will lead development of full-scale technical research proposals, statements of work, budgets, technical narratives, and collaborative project structures.This position requires a technically sophisticated individual who can quickly understand emerging technologies, communicate complex ideas clearly, and build credibility with both academic researchers and industry decision-makers. CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.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 sectorsResearch 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 partnersAlign 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 managementWhat We Can Offer

The salary range for this position is $50,000 to $55,000 per year. Relocation assistance will not be available for this position. At the University of Colorado Boulder, we are committed to supporting the holistic health and well-being of our employees. Our comprehensive benefits package includes medical, dental, and retirement plans; generous paid time off; tuition assistance for you and your dependents; and an ECO Pass for local transit. As one of Boulder County's largest employers, CU Boulder offers an inspiring academic community and access to world-class outdoor recreation. Explore additional perks and programs through the CU Advantage program.Be Statements

Be resourceful. Be impactful. Be Boulder. What We Require

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 projectsStrong technical writing and proposal preparation skills Broad technical literacy across multiple engineering and technology domains Strong interpersonal communication and relationship-building skills What You Will Need

Technically curious and adaptable across disciplines Strong initiative and self-direction Ability to work effectively in ambiguous or early-stage project environments Persistent mindset to sustain long-term opportunity development efforts Strategic thinker with practical execution capability Excellent organizational and project coordination skillsStrong networking and interpersonal communication abilities What We Would Like You to Have

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 Special Instructions

To apply, please submit the following materials as individual files: Cover Letter Resume/CV Writing Sample(s) List of References (to be used for phone reference checks) (Optional) Transcripts/Proof of Degree : If you are selected as the finalist, your degree will be verified by the CU Boulder Campus Human Resources department using an approved online vendor. If your degree was obtained outside of the United States, please submit an English-translated version (if applicable) as an Optional attachment. For full consideration, please apply by June 18, 2026. Note: Application materials will not be accepted via email. For consideration, applications must be submitted through CU Boulder Jobs. In compliance with the Colorado Job Application Fairness Act, in any materials you submit, you may redact or remove age-identifying information such as age, date of birth, or dates of school attendance or graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.