Workforce Services Project Manager

Position Title:

Workforce Services Project Manager

Job Group:

Professional & Scientific

Required Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree and 5 years of related experience

Preferred Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in human resources, industrial/organizational psychology, business management, or related field.

5-10 years of progressive HR experience, including demonstrated success leading HR-related initiatives with multiple stakeholders.

Experience working with small to mid-sized businesses, either as an internal HR lead or consultant.

Familiarity with data-driven HR practices such as employee engagement surveys, retention metrics, and turnover analysis.

Experience providing coaching to business executives and mid-level managers.

Experience facilitating group discussions and strategic planning sessions, especially related to workforce planning.

Job Description:

Are you an experienced HR leader or consultant who thrives on helping businesses grow through smart workforce strategy?

The Center for Industrial Research and Service (CIRAS) at Iowa State University is seeking a Workforce Services Project Manager to lead workforce improvement projects that directly support Iowa businesses. This role is ideal for professionals who want to apply their human resources expertise in a strategic, consultative capacity with flexible work options and meaningful impact across the state.

As a member of the CIRAS team, you will collaborate with business leaders—particularly at small to mid-sized firms—to implement practical, high-impact workforce solutions that improve retention, engagement, leadership, and overall organizational effectiveness.

What you’ll do:

• Lead workforce consulting projects for Iowa businesses, focusing on talent strategy, retention, employee engagement, change management, and related challenges.

• Conduct workforce needs assessments and develop tailored, data-informed strategies to help clients address current and future talent gaps.

• Facilitate workshops, coaching sessions, and planning meetings with executives, HR leaders, and operational managers.

• Serve as a strategic partner, connecting clients with tools, training, and resources to implement long-term, sustainable workforce improvements.

• Collaborate with internal CIRAS experts to integrate workforce strategy with operational, technology, and business strategy improvements.

• Develop or refine training programs, tools, and resources to expand CIRAS workforce offerings.

• Analyze project effectiveness and outcomes to demonstrate value and guide continuous improvement.

• Build and maintain professional relationships with clients, industry groups, government agencies, and other partners.

This position is a great fit for:

• Experienced HR professionals who enjoy solving complex people challenges in various environments.

• Consultants or internal HR leaders who want more autonomy and variety in their day-to-day work.

• Individuals seeking a balance between strategic impact and flexibility, with the opportunity to work remotely or in person across Iowa.

Additional details:

• Position type: Full-time, Professional and Scientific

• Location: Must reside in the state of Iowa (Remote or in-person) regular in-state travel is required. Relocation expenses will not be included.

• 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.

This is a term position with the end date: 06/30/2027.

About CIRAS:
For over 60 years, the Center for Industrial Research and Service (CIRAS) at Iowa State University has helped Iowa businesses improve performance and competitiveness. CIRAS provides customized services in areas such as operations, digital technology, workforce, leadership, and supply chain. 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 covera