Job Description

Position Title:

NW Iowa Strategic Advisor

Job Group:

Professional & Scientific

Required Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree and 8 years of related experience

Job Description:

The Strategic Advisor works directly with manufacturing leaders across Northwest Iowa to improve business performance, competitiveness, and long-term success. This role focuses on building deep, trusted relationships with owners, CEOs, and presidents while gaining a clear understanding of each company’s strategic, operational, and technical challenges. By educating clients on industry research and best practices, the Strategic Advisor helps leaders see the value and return on investment that comes from improving their business.

In this position, you will identify opportunities for meaningful change, scope and develop tailored solutions, and connect companies with the right CIRAS experts and partners. Strategic Advisors play a hands-on role throughout implementation to ensure measurable results. Beyond direct client work, this role also contributes to CIRAS programs, services, and outreach efforts that strengthen Iowa’s manufacturing sector as a whole.

The NW Strategic Advisor must reside in the Northwest Territory and is expected to travel to clients within the territory three to four days a week.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, technology, business management, or a related field.

• 10+ years of experience within the manufacturing industry in a leadership or management role.

• Experience assessing, developing, and implementing change within manufacturing organizations.

• Experience with building and maintaining strong client relationships.

• Experience working across organizations to connect resources and solve complex business challenges.

• Experience with financial management, including budgeting, cost control, or P&L responsibility within a manufacturing environment.

About the Department:

The Center for Industrial Research and Service (CIRAS) helps Iowa businesses solve complex problems and move forward with confidence.

As part of the Iowa State University College of Engineering and Economic Development and Industry Relations, we connect companies to innovative expertise, applied research, and strategic resources that drive real results.

Since 1963, CIRAS has partnered with Iowa businesses to strengthen leadership, improve operations, grow markets, and build skilled workforces. We bring practical industry knowledge, an objective perspective, and access to a powerful statewide network.

For more information visit the CIRAS Website

This is a term position with an end date of June 30, 2028, with the potential for renewal based on funding availability.

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship. Immigration sponsorship is not available for this position.

Application Instructions:
To apply for this position, please click on “Apply” and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:

Resume/Curriculum Vitae

Letter of Application/Cover Letter

Why Choose Iowa State University?
Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental, as well as:

• Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
• Generous vacation, holiday, and sick time and leave plans
• Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
• Life insurance and long-term disability
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Various voluntary benefits and discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellbeing program
• Iowa State offers WorkFlex options for some positions. WorkFlex offers flexibility on when, where, and how you do your work. For more information, please speak with the Hiring Manager.

If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu, or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.

Appointment Type:

Regular with Term Appointment (Fixed Term)

Proposed End Date or Length of Term:

June 30, 2028

Number of Months Employed Per Year:

12 Month Work Period

Time Type:

Full time

Pay Grade:

PS811

Original Posting Date:

May 14, 2026

Posting Close Date:

June 4, 2026

Job Requisition Number:

R19211

Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Veteran. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to Office of Equal Opportunity, 2680 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa 50011, Tel. 515-294-7612, email eooffice@iastate.edu.

General ISU compensation information can be found on the University Human Resources website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications.