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Defense Innovation Unit Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

The Tatitlek Corporation

Portfolio Analyst

Arlington, VA · On-site

$110K - $120K/yr

Overview We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Portfolio Analyst to support the Defense Innovation Unit reporting to the Secretary of Defense. DIU is an organization dedicated to ...

Vast

Director, Government Affairs

Washington, DC · On-site

S. Space Force, Air Force, Space Development Agency (SDA), Defense Innovation Unit (DIU), and other defense-related organizations. * Engage with relevant Congressional committees and staff ...

L3HHCM20

Principal, Business Development

Arlington, VA · On-site

Leverage expertise in Department of War (DoW) acquisition pathways, including the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) and Naval Rapid Capabilities Office (NRCO), to accelerate business growth * Serve as a ...

Blue Origin

Strategy Principal

Arlington, VA

$169K - $237K/yr

S. budgeting, appropriations, and contracting processes, particularly for government space agencies (i.e., Space Systems Command, Space Development Agency, Defense Innovation Unit, Air Force Research ...

Markon

Senior Software Developer

Annapolis Junction, MD · On-site

$195K - $220K/yr

Collaborates with Cyber Innovation Unit. * Develops, creates, and modifies general computer ... defense agencies. Our growing reach extends across 17 states, 116 countries, and 5 continents ...

New

Markon

Senior Software Developer

Annapolis Junction, MD · On-site

$195K - $220K/yr

Collaborates with Cyber Innovation Unit. * Develops, creates, and modifies general computer ... defense agencies. Our growing reach extends across 17 states, 116 countries, and 5 continents ...

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How much do defense innovation unit jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for defense innovation unit in Silver Spring, MD is $20.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $21.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive at the Defense Innovation Unit, and why are they important?

To thrive at the Defense Innovation Unit, you need expertise in technology development, project management, and an understanding of defense and national security, typically supported by a relevant degree and experience in innovation or the defense sector. Familiarity with emerging technologies, acquisition processes, and tools such as project management software and secure communication systems is crucial. Strong collaboration, adaptability, and effective communication skills help drive partnerships between government, industry, and academia. These abilities are essential for accelerating the adoption of cutting-edge solutions that address complex defense challenges.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working at the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU)?

Professionals at the Defense Innovation Unit often navigate the challenge of bridging the gap between fast-paced commercial technology development and the more structured processes of the Department of Defense. Adapting to the unique demands of both government and private sector stakeholders requires strong communication and project management skills. Additionally, team members regularly collaborate with startups, industry partners, and military end-users, making the ability to translate technical concepts into actionable solutions critical. Balancing innovation with compliance and security standards is another key aspect of the role.

What is the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU)?

The Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) is an organization within the U.S. Department of Defense that accelerates the adoption of commercial technology into the military. DIU works with innovative private sector companies to identify, prototype, and field advanced technological solutions that address national security challenges. By bridging the gap between the military and the commercial tech industry, DIU helps ensure the U.S. military maintains a technological edge. Their areas of focus include artificial intelligence, autonomy, cyber, human systems, and space technologies.
What are popular job titles related to Defense Innovation Unit jobs in Silver Spring, MD? For Defense Innovation Unit jobs in Silver Spring, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Defense Innovation Unit jobs in Silver Spring, MD look for? The top searched job categories for Defense Innovation Unit jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:
Defense Innovation Unit jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defense Innovation Unit job openings in Silver Spring, MD as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,560 per year, or $20.5 per hour.

DIU Program Manager - Cross Portfolio

Riverside Research Institute

Arlington, VA

$150K - $250K/yr

Other

Posted 5 days ago

New

Job description

Riverside OverviewRiverside Research is an independent National Security Nonprofit dedicated to research and development in the national interest. We provide high-end technical services, research and development, and prototype solutions to some of the country's most challenging technical problems.    All Riverside Research opportunities require U.S. Citizenship.  Position Overview

The DIU Program Manager - Cross Portfolio manager leads technology transition efforts within one or more of the Defense Innovation Unit's (DIU) portfolio areas, including Cybersecurity, Human Systems, Space, Autonomy, Energy, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML), Emerging Technologies, and future mission priorities. Identifies capability gaps across the Department of War, matches them with commercially proven solutions, and drives prototype projects from problem framing through fielding.  

Responsibilities
  • Lead the end-to-end lifecycle of prototype projects from operational problem definition through commercial scouting, prototyping, experimentation, transition, and fielding.
  • Identify capability gaps across the Department and align them with commercially available technologies that can be rapidly adopted.
  • Develop portfolio strategies aligned with the National Defense Strategy and DIU mission priorities.
  • Evaluate technical, operational, acquisition, and transition risks whilemaintainingcost, schedule, and performance objectives. 
  • Lead multidisciplinary teams composed of government civilians, military personnel, contractors, and commercial partners.
  • Partner with acquisition professionals to execute Commercial Solutions Openings (CSOs), Other Transactions (10 U.S.C. 4022), and other rapid acquisition pathways.
  • Build trusted relationships across Combatant Commands, Military Departments, Defense Agencies, industry, venture-backed companies, academia, and the innovation ecosystem.
  • Mentor teammates and contribute to DIU-wide collaboration and knowledge sharing.
Qualifications

A minimum of 12 years of related experience with a Bachelor's degree, 8 years with a Master's degree, a PhD with 5 years experience, or equivalent experience is typically required for an employee at this level.

  • Bachelor's degree in engineering, computer science, physics, robotics, applied mathematics, or related STEM discipline.
  • 11+ years leading complex technology development, innovation, product management, or defense acquisition efforts.
  • Demonstrated success transitioning commercial technologies into defense or national security applications.
  • Working knowledge of DoD acquisition pathways including Other Transactions and adaptive acquisition.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to brief senior leaders. 
  • Ability to translate operational problems into executable commercial technology solutions.
  • Technical Specialization in one or more of the following areas:
    • Physical AI, robotics, embodied autonomy, and human-machine teaming
    • Directed energy
    • Quantum communications
    • Artificial intelligence and machine learning
    • Autonomous systems
    • Space systems
    • Energy and operational resilience
    • Cloud computing, software engineering, digital engineering, and data platforms
    • Emerging commercial technologies with defense applications
  • This position requires a current TS/SCI clearance.
Global Comp$150,000 - $250,000 This represents the typical compensation range for this position based on experience, location and other factors.Closing Statement  Riverside Research Institute is a not-for-profit, technology-oriented defense company, where service to our customers and support of our staff is our overall mission. Riverside is an affirmative action-equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws regarding recruitment and hiring.  Riverside offers comprehensive compensation and benefit packages to our employees. Riverside bases its employment decisions solely on technical experience, qualifications and other job-related criteria related to our organizational purpose as a not-for-profit company, and without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex marital status, sexual orientation, national origin, physical or mental disability, veteran's status or any other status legally protected by applicable federal, state, and local law.Employment Type: OTHER

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