Bachelor's degree in Business or related field; Master's preferred.
5 years of entrepreneurship/business development experience; 2 years in a managerial role preferred.
Experience in launching or leading innovation programs in higher education.
Established network in the Los Angeles and San Fernando Valley entrepreneurial ecosystem preferred.
Experience with technology-driven and socially impactful startups preferred.
Responsibilities
Leads and manages C-STE innovation and incubation programs, ensuring their success.
Designs and implements new programs to enhance the CSUN entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Builds partnerships with startups, corporations, and community organizations.
Raises funds for C-STE programs and initiatives through various channels.
Mentors student and alumni entrepreneurs from concept to launch.
Promotes a collaborative and inclusive work environment aligned with university values.
Performs additional duties as assigned.
Benefits
Excellent fringe benefits offered by the University.
Full Job Description
Director of Innovation and Incubation Programs
Job no: 561457 Work type: Management (MPP) Location: Northridge Categories: MPP, Administrative, At-Will, Full Time, On-site (work in-person at business location)
Responsibilities
Under general supervision, the Director of Innovation and Incubation Programs leads innovation and incubation programs, develops strategic initiatives, strengthens university and community partnerships, supports entrepreneurial learning and startup development, advances fundraising efforts, and ensures program operations align with Center for Social and Technology Entrepreneurship (C-STE) and CSUN priorities.
Leads, manages, and ensures the success of all C-STE innovation and incubation programs and spaces, including I-Corps, the Summer Accelerator, Sunstone Startup Launch, Demo Day, and the Student Innovation Incubator.
Envisions, designs, and implements new programs that fill gaps in the CSUN entrepreneurial ecosystem such as a pre-Incubation program, Digital Venture Studio, academic spinoffs, etc.
Builds and sustains partnerships with local startups, corporations, investors, community organizations, and government entities.
In collaboration with the Dean and C-STE Executive Director, raises funds to support C-STE programs, student and alumni ventures, and innovation initiatives through grants, sponsorships, and philanthropic partnerships.
Provides mentorship and guidance to student and alumni entrepreneurs, helping them move their ideas from concept to launch.
As a leader, demonstrates a commitment to student success that is mission aligned with the university's vision, values and priorities. Establishes an ethical and collegial work environment, promoting a collaborative, accountable and inclusive team. Encourages a courageous and resilient solution-oriented environment by participating in new opportunities to further the mission of the university. Participates in developing initiatives that further support the campus mission with a service-oriented and catalytic mind set. Strengthens employees by being communicative and a talent builder that develops team attributes, furthering departmental goals.
Performs other duties as assigned.
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Qualifications:
Equivalent to graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a Bachelor's degree in Business or a job-related field. Master's degree in business or a related field is preferred.
Equivalent to five years of entrepreneurship/business development experience, with two of the five years in a managerial role preferred.
Experience launching or leading innovation or incubation programs in a university or college environment.
Established network within the Los Angeles and San Fernando Valley entrepreneurial ecosystem is preferred
Experience supporting both technology-driven and socially impactful startups is preferred.
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities & Leadership
Demonstrated ability to manage and mentor early-stage ventures and lead innovation programs.
Proven experience in fundraising and securing financial or partnership support for programs or startups. Familiarity with academic research and trends in entrepreneurship and innovation education.
Strong interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills, with a proven ability to build relationships on and off campus.
Demonstrated ability to work with diverse student populations and to foster an inclusive, collaborative environment.
Lead diverse teams to support the operational mission and vision of employers by fostering an ethical, inclusive and collegial work environment.
Demonstrated ability to support ongoing improvement through courageous, resilient, and catalytic leadership.
Lead varying initiatives through a collaborative, service-oriented and communicative approach.
Demonstrated commitment to employee development, recognition, and accountability to further operational goals.
Pay, Benefits, & Work Schedule
Salary is commensurate with knowledge, skills, and experience. The University offers excellent fringe benefits.
The anticipated HIRING RANGE: $ 155,000 - $ 177,000 per year, dependent upon qualifications and experience.
General Information
This position is a sensitive position as designated by the CSU.
Advertised: Oct 06 2026 Pacific Daylight Time Applications close:
