Assistant to the President - Higher Ed. jobs in El Paso, TX

Plans, directs, and coordinates strategic activities of the Research Development unit within Research & Innovation to foster collaboration between academic institutions and government agencies. This position serves as a liaison to facilitate communication, coordinate research initiatives, and advocate for funding opportunities that align with the priorities of both federal agencies and national labs. The liaison plays a key role in promoting research excellence, innovation, and strategic partnerships that advance national security, energy independence, and economic growth.

Essential Functions

Serves as the point of contact for faculty members seeking to engage in research collaborations with the Department of Energy (DoE), Department of Defense (DoD), and national labs. Facilitates meetings, forums, and networking events to foster collaboration, identify common interests, and promote partnership opportunities.

Builds and maintains strong relationships with faculty, government agencies, congressional offices, and relevant stakeholders. Acts as a trusted advisor and advocates for collaboration, representing the interests of the research community that are aligned with government entities.

Develops and implements long-term strategic plans to align University research capabilities with the priorities of the DoE and DoD. Identifies emerging research trends, technology needs, and funding opportunities to address national challenges and opportunities.

Assists faculty members in preparing research proposals for DoE, DoD, and congressional funding opportunities. Provide guidance on proposal requirements, funding mechanisms, and strategies for effectively communicating the relevance and potential impact of research projects.

Prepares briefing materials, reports, and presentations summarizing research initiatives, outcomes, and impact for internal and external stakeholders.

Coordinates resources, expertise, and infrastructure to support collaborative research projects between the University and government agencies. Facilitate access to federal research facilities, funding opportunities, and technical assistance to enhance research capabilities and competitiveness.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

Required Qualifications:

Education: Bachelor's degree in a relevant field (e.g. science, engineering, public policy)

and

Experience: Ten (10) years of experience working in and/or with Department of Defense, Department of Energy, or other U.S. national security organizations.

Qualified Applicants Should Demonstrate:

Strong understanding of Department of Defense and Department of Energy research priorities and contracting processes.

Awareness of congressional delegations, particularly in areas related to energy, national security, defense, environment, and research funding.

Strong interpersonal skills, and the ability to build and maintain effective relationships with diverse stakeholders, including government officials, faculty, and industry partners.

Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to communicate complex technical information and policy issues clearly and persuasively.

Analytical thinking and problem-solving skills, with the ability to identify opportunities, anticipate challenges, and develop strategic solutions.

Organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Ability to handle sensitive information with absolution discretion.

Preferred Qualifications:

Advanced degree

Must be eligible to acquire and maintain a U.S. Security Clearance.

The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee must frequently stand and walk. The employee must regularly sit; use hands to feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear. The employee must lift and move up to 20 pounds.

The noise level for this work environment is usually moderate.

In keeping with its access, excellence and impact mission, The University of Texas at El Paso is committed to an open, diverse, and inclusive learning and working environment that honors the talents, respects the differences, and nurtures the growth and development of all. We seek to attract faculty and staff who share our commitment.

The University of Texas at El Paso is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer. The University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or sexual orientation and gender in employment or the provision of services in accordance with state and federal law. Discrimination on the basis of sex includes an employee’s or prospective employee’s right to be free from sexual harassment under Title IX of the Higher Education Amendments of 1972.

For accommodation information for employees and applicants with disabilities, please contact UTEP's Equal Opportunity Office at eoaa@utep.edu.