The Assistant Director, Operations will serve as a technical executive and strategic advisor, working closely with the Executive Director to drive the Hamm Institute for American Energy’s (HIAE) mission forward. This role is responsible for operational leadership, execution of strategic initiatives, and technical oversight of key energy innovation programs. The position will also bridge industry, academia, and government partnerships, leveraging expertise in energy innovation, research development, and technology commercialization.

Work Environment & Travel: This position is based at the Hamm Institute for American Energy in Oklahoma City and requires regular engagement with colleagues, OSU, industry partners, and government agencies. Some domestic and international travel will be required for stakeholder engagement, conferences, and research collaboration.

Special Instructions to Applicants

Applicants should include a resume, a cover letter, and the names, addresses (including e-mail addresses), and telephone numbers of three professional references. Applications must be submitted electronically and will be accepted until a successful candidate is selected.

Education & Experience

Position Qualifications:

Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree

Six (6) years of related work experience, to include progressive leadership experience in a relevant energy, research, or academic setting, with executive-level strategic oversight.

• Proven ability to manage large-scale, multidisciplinary technical teams in research, development, and operational execution.
• Deep understanding of energy technologies, carbon reduction, digital transformation, and industry trends.
• Strong program management, budgeting, and operational execution experience, including managing multi-million-dollar research portfolios.
• Demonstrated experience in public-private partnerships, industry collaborations, and securing funding through grants or private investment.
• Strong analytical, strategic, and problem-solving skills with a track record of innovation and impact in energy research.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and leadership abilities, with the capacity to engage across technical and non-technical audiences.
  
  

Preferred Qualifications:

Ph.D./Ed.D. in Engineering, Energy Policy, or Business with a technical emphasis.

Experience in a government, national lab, or corporate R&D setting focused on energy innovation.

• Knowledge of policy and regulatory frameworks impacting the energy industry.
• Experience working with academic research institutions and commercialization pathways.
  
  

Oklahoma State University (OSU) strives to provide a safe study, work, and living environment for its faculty, staff, volunteers and students. To support this environment and comply with applicable laws and regulations, OSU conducts pre-employment background checks on final candidates. Offers of employment are contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. The type of background check conducted varies by position and can include, but is not limited to, criminal (felony and misdemeanor) history, sex offender registry, motor vehicle history, financial history, and/or education verification. Background checks will be conducted when required by law or contract and when, in the discretion of the university, it is reasonable and prudent to do so.

Oklahoma State University, as an equal opportunity employer, complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding non-discrimination. Oklahoma State University is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all individuals and does not discriminate based on race, religion, age, sex, color, national origin, marital status, disability, or veteran status with regard to employment, educational programs and activities, and/or admissions. For more information, visit eeo.okstate.edu.