Remote Strategic Advisor Southeast Iowa bei Center for Industrial Research and Service (CIRAS) at Iowa State University
Center for Industrial Research and Service (CIRAS) at Iowa State University · Vereinigte Staaten Von Amerika · Remote
- Senior
Position Title:
Strategic Advisor Southeast IowaJob Group:
Professional & ScientificRequired Minimum Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree and 8 years of related experiencePreferred Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in engineering, technology, business management or a related field.At least 10 years of experience within the manufacturing industry in a management role.
Experience assessing, developing, and implementing change within manufacturers.
Knowledge of manufacturing industry best practices.
Demonstrated ability to build relationships.
Demonstrated ability to communicate complex ideas and insights effectively.
Job Description:
Are you an experienced manufacturing leader looking for a meaningful role with greater flexibility and impact?
The Center for Industrial Research and Service (CIRAS) at Iowa State University is seeking a Strategic Advisor for Southeast Iowa. This role is ideal for accomplished professionals with deep expertise in manufacturing who are interested in applying their knowledge in a consultative, community-focused setting—without the demands of corporate leadership.
As a Strategic Advisor, you’ll provide high-level support to Iowa manufacturers by building trusted relationships with executives, identifying growth opportunities, and connecting clients to expert services and resources. You’ll play a key role in delivering real-world solutions that strengthen businesses and drive innovation across the state.
What you’ll do:
Serve as a strategic advisor to company presidents, CEOs, and owners by identifying opportunities to improve performance, reduce risk, and drive growth.
Lead the planning, delivery, and management of fee-for-service projects, grants, and collaborative initiatives.
Build and maintain relationships with regional economic development organizations, business groups, and trade associations.
Provide expert insight on manufacturing strategy, leadership, workforce development, and operational improvement.
Collaborate with internal and external teams to deliver integrated solutions that create meaningful, measurable outcomes.
Stay informed on Iowa and national manufacturing trends, bringing fresh insights to CIRAS clients and stakeholders.
Travel regularly within the Southeast Iowa territory to meet with clients and partners (daily/weekly), with occasional overnight travel.
This position offers:
The chance to leverage a career’s worth of knowledge in a high-impact, flexible setting.
A supportive team environment rooted in service, innovation, and continuous learning.
The satisfaction of helping Iowa’s manufacturers thrive and grow stronger communities.
Additional details:
Position type: Full-time, Professional and Scientific
Location: Must reside in Southeast Iowa (field-based with flexible work location within the southeast Iowa region; regular travel within region required)
Residency requirement: 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.
About CIRAS:
The Center for Industrial Research and Service (CIRAS) at Iowa State University partners with Iowa companies to enhance business performance, productivity, and competitiveness. With over six decades of service, CIRAS provides hands-on support in areas such as engineering, workforce, supply chain, digital technology, and leadership. Learn more at https://www.ciras.iastate.edu
What we offer – exceptional benefits:
Working at Iowa State University means you’ll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your wellbeing and career:
Work/life balance: Iowa State University was voted Best Place for Working Parents 2025
Generous vacation and sick leave – 24 vacation days, 18 sick days, and 11 paid holidays
Excellent health insurance options – including dental and vision coverage
Retirement plans with employer contributions – choose from multiple plans to secure your future
Tuition reimbursement and professional development support – grow with us
Wellness programs and work-life resources – including mental health and counseling support
Explore Iowa State’s benefits: https://www.hr.iastate.edu/benefits
Appointment Type:
Regular with Term Appointment (Fixed Term)Proposed End Date or Length of Term:
August 10, 2027Number of Months Employed Per Year:
12 Month Work PeriodTime Type:
Full timePay Grade:
PS811Application Instructions:
To apply for this position, please click on “Apply” and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:
1) Resume/Curriculum Vitae
2) Letter of Application/Cover Letter
If you have questions regarding this application process, please email [email protected] or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.
Why Choose ISU?
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