Research & Innovation Program Manager
Helena, MT - USA
Job Summary
State government does not discriminate based on race color national origin religion sex sexual orientation gender identity or expression pregnancy childbirth or medical conditions related to pregnancy or childbirth age physical or mental disability genetic information marital status creed political beliefs or affiliation veteran status military service retaliation or any other factor not related to merit and qualifications of an employee or applicant.
The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) is recruiting for a Research & Innovation Program Manager. This position is responsible for managing and administering the operations and activities of the MDT Research Program the Experimental Projects Program and the Technology Transfer Program as well as the Departments library and related services. Develops and executes a strategic research roadmap aligned with MDTs goals and FHWAs State Planning & Research (SPR) program. Engages internal and external partners including universities FHWA land local agencies to advance the Departments research and innovation agenda. Guides the full research lifecycle ensuring research project outcomes benefit programs statewide. Services as the agencys primary liaison for federal research committees and programs. This position reports to the Business Solutions Office Lead and directly supervises 3 professional staff: two Research Project Managers and the Department Librarian.
For a full job description please contact Alycia Gereg at .
Benefits of working for MDT and the State of Montana include:
Culture of public service and a commitment to work/life balance
Potential hybrid remote work arrangement available
Health Dental and Vision Insurance
Access to Montana Health Centers low-cost clinics for state employees and their families
State Retirement plan and additional savings opportunities (deferred compensation)
Employees in this position receive overtime compensation or compensatory time for all time in a pay status over 40 hours in a workweek
Paid vacation sick leave and holidays
Eligibility for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness
Benefits apply on first day of employment
Relocation assistance may be offered to the successful candidate at the time of offer
For information on the Montana Department of Transportations mission vision and values please visit our website: Application Materials:
A resume detailing your qualifications and work history.
A cover letter of no more than two pages addressing your qualifications for the position.
Your online application and all required materials must be submitted before midnight on the closing date. Ensure all materials submitted are selected as Relevant.
If you need an accommodation with the application process please contact the HR representative listed below.
Required Education and Experience:
Bachelors degree in business science transportation or a closely related field. OR 4 years of related experience in lieu of a degree.
4 years of progressive experience in program administration transportation research or project and portfolio management.
1 year of supervisory or team lead experience.
Alternative combinations of related experience and education may be considered.
Knowledge Skills and Abilities:
Knowledge of project and portfolio management principles.
Skills in stakeholder engagement and collaboration. Ability to facilitate meetings with a variety of stakeholders.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Other Information
The advertised salary includes the 2.5% increase passed by the 2025 MT State Legislature regarding the state pay plan effective July 1 2026.
Drivers record will be verified. Successful applicants will be required to sign a release form which authorizes the Department to obtain the applicants permanent driving records. Compliance with Mont. Admin. R. 2.6.201 State Vehicle Use and MDT Policy #6.03.001 State Vehicle Use Policy are conditions of employment.
The Montana Department of Transportation is an equal opportunity employer. Women racial and ethnic minorities people with disabilities and veterans and disabled veterans are encouraged to apply. People with disabilities needing assistance in the application process or those needing this job announcement in an alternative format may call the Human Resources and Occupational Safety Division at 406.444.6054.
The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) is committed to continuous improvement of our employee safety program and our safety and health processes and to achieving an injury-free workplace.
Proof of eligibility to work in the United States must be provided if selected for hire. Generally sponsorship for work authorization is not available through the State of Montana.
Effective 5/26/2026 MDT is participating in E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility. After accepting a job offer and completing the Form I-9 your information will be submitted to the Department of Homeland Security and the Social Security Administration for verification. For more inormaton about E-Verify please visit the E-Verify website found here: .
Required Experience:
Manager
About Company
The Montana Department of Labor & Industry wants to help both employees and employers to be happy on the job. We take seriously our mission to promote and protect the well-being of Montana's workers, employers and citizens, and to uphold their rights and responsibilities. Our agenc ... View more