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Defense Innovation Unit Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Vast

Director, Government Affairs

Washington, DC

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 ...

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 ...

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Defense Innovation Unit information

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How much do defense innovation unit jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for defense innovation unit in Washington, DC is $22.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.88 and $23.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 does the Defense Innovation Unit do?

The Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) is a Department of Defense organization that collaborates with commercial technology companies to accelerate the development and adoption of innovative solutions for national security. It focuses on integrating emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and autonomous systems into defense applications. DIU employees typically work in a fast-paced environment, requiring technical expertise and project management skills to bridge the gap between industry and military needs.

What are popular job titles related to Defense Innovation Unit jobs in Washington, DC?

For Defense Innovation Unit jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Defense Innovation Unit jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Defense Innovation Unit jobs in Washington, DC are:

Defense Innovation Unit jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defense Innovation Unit job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,629 per year, or $22.4 per hour.

Technical Program Manager

Defense Innovation Unit (DIU)

Arlington, VA • On-site

$148K - $192K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:
The Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) is a Department of War organization focused on accelerating the adoption of commercial technology throughout the military. They are seeking experienced candidates for future openings in Technical Program Management, where responsibilities include managing agreements for technology development and providing recommendations and briefings to management.
Responsibilities:
• Manages cost, schedule, and performance of agreements to research, develop, evaluate, modify, and deliver commercial technology to accelerate warfighting advantage and solve operational problems.
• Seeks out technology opportunities, manages agreement performance, and plans transition for broader department adoption.
• Provides authoritative recommendations, briefings, and other formal and informal feedback and status to management on all aspects of the agreement, commercial technical performance, and for all significant decision points.
• Plans, organizes, and coordinates activities with functional specialists, including contracting, engineering, configuration management, and test.
Qualifications:
Required:
• Experience in program management
• Experience in managing cost, schedule, and performance of agreements
• Ability to research, develop, evaluate, modify, and deliver commercial technology
• Experience in seeking out technology opportunities
• Experience in managing agreement performance
• Ability to plan transition for broader department adoption
• Ability to provide authoritative recommendations and briefings
• Experience in coordinating activities with functional specialists
• Experience in contracting, engineering, configuration management, and testing
Preferred:
• Military experience
• High technology product development and leadership
• Operations expertise
Company:
Defense Innovation Unit is a DoD organization that focuses on accelerating commercial technology for national security. Founded in 2015, the company is headquartered in Mountain View, USA, with a team of 51-200 employees. The company is currently Growth Stage.

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