We are seeking a Problem Sourcing and Curation SME to support the Problem Sourcing and Curation team, belonging to the Defense Innovation Unit’s Commercial Operations Team reporting to the Secretary of Defense. DIU’s Commercial Operations is a component dedicated to fostering innovation and collaboration among DoD Mission Partners, Academia, Industry, new ventures & entrepreneurs, private capital investors, and other national security stakeholders to solve some of the most complex challenges facing the nation. A key component of this mission involves engaging with the academic, venture and startup communities to leverage their creativity and agility in addressing defense-related problems.
The ideal individual will have the ability to exercise good judgment in a diversity of situations, with excellent written and verbal communication, analytical, interpersonal, and organizational skills, and the ability to maintain a realistic balance among multiple priorities and equities in a high-tempo environment serving DIU’s mission.
The successful candidate will build ongoing rapport and interact seamlessly and with a professional demeanor across a broad range of individuals including members of the Senior Management Team, government contractors, Federal civilian and military employees, and cross-government stakeholders. The role is expected to handle exquisitely highly sensitive, confidential, and institutional information while exercising professionalism and discretion.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
1. Problem Identification and Sourcing:
● Collaborate with Department of Defense Mission Partners, Armed Services, and other national security organizations to identify critical problems and challenges.
● Conduct thorough research to understand the context and specifics of identified problems.
● Engage with top-tier research universities, institutions and non-traditional problem solvers to source innovative solutions and technologies.
2. Curation and Analysis:
● Evaluate and curate a diverse range of problems across multiple deep, critical technology areas correlating with DIU’s portfolios, including but not limited to AI, cybersecurity, space, and emerging technologies.
● Analyze the potential impact, feasibility, and alignment of sourced problems with organizational goals and national security priorities.
3. Stakeholder Engagement:
● Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including military personnel, defense contractors, and academic researchers.
● Facilitate regular communication and collaboration between stakeholders to ensure alignment and progress.
4. Technical Expertise:
● Apply expertise in hard sciences and STEM disciplines to understand and assess complex technical problems.
● Stay updated with the latest advancements and trends in relevant technology areas to inform problem sourcing and curation.
5. Documentation and Reporting:
● Prepare detailed reports and documentation on sourced problems, including background information, analysis, and potential solution pathways.
● Present findings and recommendations to senior leadership and other relevant parties.
6. Project Management:
● Manage the lifecycle of problem sourcing projects, from initial identification to final curation and handover to solution development teams.
● Ensure timely and efficient progress of projects, adhering to established timelines and milestones.
7. Innovation and Continuous Improvement:
● Identify opportunities for innovation in problem sourcing and curation processes.
● Implement best practices and continuous improvement initiatives to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of the role.
8. Compliance and Ethics:
● Ensure all activities comply with relevant regulations, policies, and ethical standards, particularly those related to national security and defense.
SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS:
1. Analytical Skills:
● Strong ability to analyze complex problems and data to identify key issues and potential solutions.
● Proficiency in using analytical tools and methodologies to evaluate the feasibility and impact of sourced problems.
2. Communication Skills:
● Excellent verbal and written communication skills to effectively convey complex technical information to diverse audiences.
● Ability to facilitate discussions and negotiations with stakeholders from various backgrounds.
3. Technical Proficiency:
● Deep understanding of multiple STEM fields, including AI, cybersecurity, space, and emerging technologies and other critical technology areas identified by DOD.
● Ability to quickly grasp new technologies and their potential applications in defense and national security contexts.
4. Collaboration and Teamwork:
● Strong interpersonal skills to build and maintain relationships with academic institutions, defense contractors, and government agencies.
● Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team environment.
5. Project Management:
● Proven experience in managing projects, including planning, execution, and monitoring.
● Ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines.
6. Problem-Solving Skills:
● Creative and critical thinking skills to develop innovative solutions to complex problems.
● Resilience and adaptability to navigate challenges and setbacks effectively.
7. Emotional Intelligence:
● High level of emotional intelligence to manage relationships and understand the needs and motivations of various stakeholders.
● Ability to remain calm and focused under pressure.
8. Networking and Relationship Building:
● Strong networking skills to connect with key partners in academic institutions and Defense Innovation Unit's programs.
● Ability to leverage relationships to facilitate collaboration and drive project success.
REQUIREMENTS:
● Advanced degree in a hard science or STEM field (e.g., Physics, Engineering, Computer Science).
● 10+ years of proven experience working with deep technology areas and top-tier research universities.
● Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
● Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
● Familiarity with the Department of Defense and national security environments is highly desirable.
● Exceptional analytical skills with the ability to assess trends and identify opportunities for innovation.
● Comprehensive knowledge of national security needs and the Science and Technology programs that align with these requirements.
● Strong interpersonal and communication skills, both oral and written, tailored to engaging diverse stakeholders effectively.
● Capacity to prioritize competing initiatives, overseeing multiple projects while achieving measurable results in support of broader strategic goals.
● Occasional travel may be necessary, estimated at up to 15-20% of the time.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
Candidates should be able to perform the essential functions of the position, which may require standing, walking, sitting, and the ability to lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required include close vision, distance vision, and the ability to adjust focus.
WORK ENVIRONMENT:
The working environment is typically an office setting, with occasional exposure to outdoor conditions. The noise level is usually moderate, and reasonable accommodation may be made for individuals with disabilities.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:
This role does not include supervisory responsibilities.
ADDITIONAL QUALIFYING FACTORS:
Applicants must have the ability to obtain and maintain a secret security clearance, complete a satisfactory background screening, and provide proof of identity and legal authorization to work in the United States.
The Tatitlek Corporation prioritizes hiring and advancement for its shareholders, their descendants, and spouses who meet the qualifications for this position.
As an equal opportunity employer, The Tatitlek Corporation values diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive environment free from discrimination. We celebrate the unique contributions of all individuals and encourage applicants from varied backgrounds to apply.
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