Innovation Specialist

About the Role

The Innovation Specialist will be the key driver in maintaining a robust flow of innovative ideas and initiatives within the Department of Energy (DoE). This role involves overseeing the strategy and execution of innovation activities, ensuring alignment with DOE's objectives. The specialist will evaluate innovation projects, strategies, and business cases to support the broader innovation ecosystem within DoE.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct analysis to assess the potential benefits and timelines for investing in innovation initiatives across energy sector departments.
• Collaborate with the innovation team to develop a systematic toolkit enabling DoE employees to innovate effectively and consistently.
• Support research efforts to reinforce DoE's innovation priorities and identify emerging technologies, methods, and equipment.
• Monitor global technological trends in the energy sector to identify best practices and innovations.
• Engage with external innovation experts and organizations to introduce current methodologies and insights into DoE.
• Contribute to the design and implementation of programs that cultivate an organizational culture valuing innovation.
• Participate in driving transformation-centered initiatives within the energy sector focused on innovation.
• Monitor progress and performance of approved innovation initiatives and projects.
• Assist DoE in establishing itself as a leader and catalyst for value-based innovation nationally and globally.
• Coordinate with stakeholders to clarify innovation scopes and growth opportunities within each directorate, evaluating associated risks.
• Promote an innovation-friendly environment, facilitating the adoption of new skills and cost-efficient strategies across directorates.
• Define and oversee innovation projects, ensuring they meet strategic objectives.
• Support the development of training programs on innovation methodologies.
• Generate new ideas and initiatives aligned with DoE's mission, vision, and innovation roadmap.
• Offer guidance on experimentation discipline, including defining success metrics, accountability frameworks, and knowledge gathering.

Qualifications & Experience

• Possess a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as Energy Management, Engineering, Innovation Management, or Social Sciences.
• Have at least five years of experience in innovation management and research and development.