Director of Research Services

Jan 9, 2025

Are you interested in working in a collaborative environment with like-minded professionals dedicated to the science of water, public health, and the environment? If so, advance the science of water by joining The Water Research Foundation (WRF) team! The science and knowledge WRF generates allows the water sector to provide high-quality, safe, accessible, and affordable water services that contribute to healthy, resilient communities and a sustainable global environment.

Position Overview

WRF is seeking a visionary and dynamic Director of Research Services to join the management team in either the Denver, CO office or the Alexandria, VA office. The Director of Research Services will play a critical role in managing the research services unit to ensure that WRF research programming is scientifically credible and responsive to subscribers.

This role will involve strategic planning, resource management, collaboration with other departments, staff leadership, and operational oversight to ensure that research programs align with organizational goals. The Director will work closely with the Chief Research Officer and other Research Services Directors to optimize research processes, implement best practices, and drive continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

  • Team Leadership and Supervision: Lead, manage, and mentor a team of research managers, providing guidance and support to foster individual and team development.
  • Research Planning: Oversee the execution of research programs, ensuring they are rigorous and aligned with the organization's overall goals. Support the Chief Research Officer in developing and implementing competitive research proposals in response to funding opportunities from federal and state departments and philanthropic organizations.
  • Communication and Collaboration: Collaborate with other research units, departments, and external partners to exchange ideas, share resources, and identify interdisciplinary opportunities. Collaborate with other Research Services Directors to ensure staff management consistency.
  • Project Management: Administer the design, execution, and dissemination of research projects to ensure high quality and impactful outcomes. Manage research projects to ensure fiscal responsibility, timeliness, and contractual compliance.
  • WRF Research Promotion: Represent WRF through presentations, authorship, conference attendance, professional association membership, and media interactions.

Job Requirements

  • Advanced degree (MS or PhD) in engineering, biological science, environmental science, chemistry, or related field.
  • Minimum five years of experience in research leadership roles, including experience managing teams and budgets.
  • Strong leadership and team management abilities, focusing on mentoring and professional development.
  • Excellent project management skills, with the ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously.
  • Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams and external stakeholders.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to address challenges creatively.
  • Positive, professional, and effective communication, both written and verbal.
  • Establish and maintain cooperative and positive working relationships internally and externally.
  • 10–20% travel is required.

WRF Benefits

  • Professional and collaborative environment
  • Competitive salary:
    • The pay range for this position is $130,000–$150,000 (if calculated on an annual basis), based on qualifications and experience.
  • An outstanding benefit package including:
    • Health, dental, and vision plans
    • Company paid life insurance along with supplemental options
    • Ancillary benefit programs
    • 401(k) plan with company match
    • Paid sick and vacation time
    • Flexible work arrangement and scheduling to enhance work/life balance

To Apply

Use the following form forms.waterrf.org/223203979838063 to submit your cover letter/salary range expectations and resume.

WRF is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.

No immigration or relocation assistance is available for this position.