Ecosystem Engagement Lead
Location: On-Site (Columbus, OH) | Organization: Parallax Advanced Research
Why This Role Matters
At Parallax Advanced Research, we’re committed to advancing science, accelerating innovation, and serving the public good. As a nonprofit research institute, we unite government, academia, and industry to solve complex national security challenges through The Science of Intelligent Teaming™.
As the Ecosystem Engagement Lead, you’ll serve as the primary connector for the Defense Innovation OnRamp Hub: Ohio (ORH). You’ll lead outreach and engagement efforts that strengthen the bridge between the Department of Defense (DoD), regional innovation ecosystems, and commercial tech providers. This high-visibility role is vital to driving collaboration, aligning regional capabilities with national defense priorities, and enhancing Ohio’s presence in the defense innovation landscape.
In This Role, You Will:
Stakeholder Engagement & Ecosystem Development (75%)
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Serve as the lead outreach contact for ORH across the region.
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Engage with DoD entities, defense laboratories, Program Executive Offices (PEOs), and acquisition offices.
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Build partnerships with Ohio-based companies and non-traditional vendors aligned with Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) priority areas.
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Develop strategies that deepen regional defense innovation ecosystems and commercial sector collaboration.
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Represent Parallax at defense innovation events, trade shows, and consortia, maintaining a strong and visible presence.
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Strengthen the connection between academia, startups, and the DoD to promote dual-use technology solutions.
Program Execution & Reporting (25%)
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Prepare briefings, reports, and communications to keep leadership and partners informed.
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Track and communicate engagement activity, ecosystem trends, and outcomes.
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Support implementation of the ORH CRM tool, providing user feedback for improvement.
We’re Looking for Someone Who:
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Holds a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree (BA/BS or MA/MS) in a relevant field.
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Has 5–7 years of experience in outreach, engagement, or strategic partnerships in defense, innovation, or technology sectors.
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Demonstrates proven success working with cross-sector stakeholders (government, industry, academia).
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Communicates clearly and confidently, with strong writing, speaking, and presentation skills.
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Is adept at navigating fast-paced environments and managing multiple priorities.
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Possesses strong organizational and time-management skills.
Preferred Qualifications:
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Experience working with DoD innovation groups (e.g., AFWERX, DIU, NSIN).
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Familiarity with dual-use technologies, TRLs, and commercialization pathways.
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Understanding of FAR/Non-FAR acquisition and SBIR/STTR processes.
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Experience in defense ecosystem building or with venture-backed startups.
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Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance (Secret or higher).
Work Environment & Travel
This is an on-site role based in Columbus, OH, with up to 35% travel expected. You’ll engage regularly with regional DoD installations, academic institutions, and commercial partners. The role requires initiative, adaptability, and a professional presence.
Why Join Parallax?
We offer a workplace that supports personal well-being and professional growth, backed by a strong benefits package:
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Health Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision coverage
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Insurance: 100% employer-paid life, short- and long-term disability
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Retirement: Roth or pre-tax 401(k) with company match + annual employer contribution
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Education: 100% tuition coverage for employees + 80% for dependents
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Time Off: 25 days of PTO, flex holidays, paid parental leave, and military leave
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Work-Life Balance: PTO sell-back program and hybrid flexibility for select positions
At Parallax, we believe in driving national impact through collaboration, innovation, and integrity. If you’re passionate about enabling high-impact partnerships and building the future of defense innovation—we encourage you to apply.
Parallax Advanced Research is an Equal Opportunity Employer, a drug-free workplace, and complies with ADA regulations as applicable.
