Director, Innovation in Port Studies

Job Title

Director, Innovation in Port Studies

Agency

Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi

Department

Blucher

Proposed Minimum Salary

Commensurate

Job Location

Corpus Christi, Texas

Job Type

Staff

Job Description

TAMU-CC is a dynamic university designated as both a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) and Minority-Serving Institution (MSI) with approximately 11,000 students from 47 states and 54 foreign nations. We employ over 1,400 full-time and 2,000 part-time Islanders (including students/GAs). The University attracts highly talented faculty and staff and offers an array of undergraduate and graduate degrees, including doctoral programs.  As a member of the Texas A&M University System, TAMU-CC benefits from a range of resources, increased visibility and influence, and opportunities to collaborate in mutually beneficial ways with peers across member institutions and associated agencies.

PURPOSE

The Conrad Blucher Institute for Surveying and Science (CBI) at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi seeks an entrepreneurial leader to establish and direct Innovation in Port Studies (iPORTS), a new research hub dedicated to advancing science applications for marine port operations.

Who We Are

 

Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi (TAMU-CC) is a vibrant, Hispanic and Minority Serving Institution that has attained Carnegie R2 status as a doctoral university with high research activity.  TAMU-CC is a regional university that proudly provides a solid academic reputation, renowned faculty, and highly rated degree programs since 1947.  The university has a heritage of teaching excellence with innovation in research and community engagement as part of the distinguished Texas A&M System. TAMU-CC is the only university in the nation located on its own island and is at the heart of the Texas Gulf Coast. With palm tree lined pathways throughout the campus, nearby natural wetlands, a scenic hike-and-bike trail and pristine views of the beach and bays, TAMU-CC is a first-choice institution.

The Conrad Blucher Institute for Surveying and Science (CBI) at TAMU-CC is a collaborative research environment utilizing geospatial science to support data driven decision making.  The institute’s research laboratories develop innovative solutions informed by precise measurements honoring the legacy of the Blucher family and their commitment to surveying and science.  CBI pushes the boundaries of geospatial science by applying cutting edge technologies to map, measure, collect and manage big data used to predict our physical environment.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Development and Strategic Leadership: 30%

• Establish iPORTS as a nationally recognized research hub for marine ports.

• Develop strategic partnerships with port authorities, maritime industry stakeholders, federal agencies, and technology vendors.

• Foster interdisciplinary collaboration across TAMU-CC departments including Engineering, Environmental Science, Business, and Computing Sciences.

• Represent the institute at national and international maritime conferences, professional organizations, and industry forums.

• Develop and maintain advisory board relationships with port industry executives, government officials, and academic partners.

Funding Development and Revenue Generation: 30%

• Develop and implement a diversified funding strategy combining federal research grants, port authority contracts, industry partnerships, consulting services, and training programs.

• Prepare and submit competitive grant proposals, manage awarded projects, and ensure compliance with all sponsor requirements.

• Build revenue-generating service lines including, but not limited to, port geospatial consulting, decision support tool development, vulnerability assessments, and technology validation services.

• Establish technology licensing and commercialization pathways for iPORTS innovations.

Functional Area 3: Research and Technical Operations: 25%

• Lead and direct applied research in port geospatial applications including, but not limited to, digital twin development, infrastructure monitoring, bathymetric mapping, environmental compliance, and cargo optimization.

• Oversee the selection, deployment, and maintenance of geospatial sensing infrastructure to support continuous data acquisition across port facilities.

• Develop decision support tools and operational dashboards integrating real-time sensor data, geospatial analytics, and predictive modeling.

• Coordinate vulnerability assessment and climate adaptation research for port infrastructure and operations.

• Establish emerging technology testing and validation capabilities leveraging CBI and member port capabilities and facilities.

• Contribute to peer-reviewed publications, technical reports, and industry white papers advancing port science.

Outreach, Training, and Industry Engagement: 10%

• Develop professional training programs for port personnel, maritime industry professionals, and government agency staff on port technologies and applications.

• Create continuing education and certificate programs addressing maritime workforce needs.

• Engage with professional organizations including AAPA and regional port associations to disseminate research and build industry relationships.

• Develop outreach materials, case studies, and best practices documentation for port applications.

• Travel to port facilities, conferences, and stakeholder meetings which may require the use of rental or university vehicles for travel.

Administration and Leadership: 5%

• Recruit, supervise, and mentor staff, graduate students, and affiliated researchers.

• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources across multiple concurrent research and consulting engagements.

• Communicate effectively with CBI Executive Director, university administration, and external stakeholders on iPORTS activities and strategic direction.

• Operates university vehicles and rental vehicles as needed for site visits and field activities.

• Other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree.

• Ten (10) years of progressively responsible experience in geospatial science, maritime/port operations, transportation research, or related fields, to include five (5) years of demonstrated experience in leadership, project management, or supervisory roles.

• Additional education may be considered as a substitution for the minimum requirements:

  • Master’s degree and Eight (8) years of progressively responsible experience in geospatial science, maritime/port operations, transportation research, or related fields, to include five (5) years of demonstrated experience in leadership, project management, or supervisory roles

• Proven track record of securing and managing external funding from federal agencies, industry partners, or other sponsors.

• Demonstrated experience building partnerships with government agencies, industry stakeholders, or port authorities.

• Excellent written and oral communication skills with ability to present to various audiences including port executives, government officials, and technical researchers.

• Maintain a valid Drivers License.

KNWOLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Excellent strategic planning, project management, and organizational leadership skills.

• Entrepreneurial mindset with demonstrated ability to build programs, partnerships, and revenue streams.

• Ability to develop and maintain relationships with government agencies, professional organizations, and industry partners.

• Experience in grant writing, proposal development, and research administration.

• Knowledge of maritime industry operations and marine port infrastructure.

• Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and deliver results in a timely manner.

• Ability to assess and prioritize multiple tasks and projects in a fast-paced office environment, meeting deadlines and project requirements.

• Intermediate proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.

• High level of articulation and professionalism.

• Exceptional attention to detail.

• Critical thinking and proactive problem solving.

• Ability to take initiative and identify opportunities for improvement.

• Ability to either work in a team environment or independently with minimal guidance.

• Ability to manage and prioritize tasks, resources, and time effectively.

• Ability to present information clearly and concisely.

• Ability to perform effectively under conditions of fluctuating workload and competing deadlines.

• Genuine care for workplace wellbeing including what is physical and tangible and those unseen contributions that facilitate an efficient and effective work environment.

PREFERRED QUALIFICAITONS

• Master’s degree or higher in Maritime Studies, Geospatial Science, Geography, Transportation, Civil Engineering, or closely related field.

• Direct experience working with port authorities, maritime terminals, or shipping industry.

• Experience with NOAA programs, MARAD initiatives, or other federal maritime/transportation agencies.

• Experience with smart infrastructure systems.

• Experience with technology commercialization or industry consulting.

• Existing relationships with AAPA or other maritime professional organizations.

• Experience providing college-level instruction or professional continuing education.

SALARY: Up to $10,000.00 Monthly ($120,000.00 Annual, Approximately)

NOTE:

• This position has the possibility to be hybrid or remote.

• Employment may be impacted by the Presidential proclamation issued on September 19, 2025 and the moratorium issued by Texas Governor Abbott on January 27, 2026.

BENEFITS (rules, policies, eligibility apply)

From our generous benefits package and professional development opportunities, to our retirement programs and our commitment to service excellence, the Island University is an engaging and rewarding place to work.

INSURANCE:

• Medical

  • $0 - $30 per month for Employee Only coverage after university contribution ($920 value).

  • Up to 83% of premium covered by the university:

    • Employee and Spouse

    • Employee and Children

    • Employee and Family coverage

• Dental & Vision

• Life Insurance, Accidental D&D, Long Term Disability, Flexible Spending Account and Day Care Spending Account

DUAL CAREER PARTNER PROGRAM

ON-CAMPUS WELLNESS OPPORTUNITIES

Work Life Solutions:

• Counseling, Work Life Assistance, Financial Resources, and Legal Resources

Tuition Benefits:

• Public Loan Forgiveness

• Book scholarships

• 100% tuition coverage for up to 18 credit hours per fiscal year (other rules may apply).

Retirement:

• Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS) or Optional Retirement Plan (ORP)

• Voluntary Tax Deferred Account/Deferred Compensation Plan

Time Off:

• 8+ hours of vacation paid time off every month.

• 8 hours of sick leave time off every month.

• 8 hours of paid time off for Birthday leave.

• 12-15 paid holidays each year.

All positions are security-sensitive. Applicants are subject to a criminal history investigation, and employment is contingent upon the institution’s verification of credentials and/or other information required by the institution’s procedures, including the completion of the criminal history check.

Equal Opportunity/Veterans/Disability Employer.