Job Description

Job Description:
The Center for Industrial Research and Service (CIRAS), in partnership with Agriculture and Natural Resources (ANR) Extension and Outreach at Iowa State University, is seeking a CIRAS Business Services Specialist III with the focus in food and feed safety & quality. This position works directly with Iowa food and feed manufacturers, processors, and handlers to develop and implement food safety and quality programs, support regulatory compliance efforts, and assist companies with industry standards such as FSMA / Preventative Controls, SQF, ISO 22000, and HACCP, including training and implementation support, such as Preventive Controls Qualified Individual (PCQI) training. They serves as a key resource for training, technical assistance, and continuous improvement initiatives across the food and feed manufacturers, processors, and related supply chains.

The successful candidate will manage client projects, deliver educational programs, conduct on-site consultations, and collaborate with Iowa State University experts (including ISU labs like the Meat Lab and Food Innovation Hub) and industry partners to provide practical solutions for Iowa businesses. This role requires strong project management, communication, and relationship-building skills, as well as regular travel throughout Iowa to support clients and help improve food safety, quality, and operational performance (including on-site assessments, training, and support for the implementation of standards). This role offers opportunities to grow expertise in food and feed safety, regulatory compliance, and applied technical consulting.

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience in the food or feed manufacturing sector, and related supply chains.
Experience interfacing with university researchers for the benefit of manufacturers.
Experience in developing plans to achieve regulatory and non-regulatory conformance or certifications.
Experience leading complex technical projects focused on product design and qualification.
Experience with Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) and globally recognized food safety system programs.
Experience assessing and developing plans for clients or internal units needing improvements.
Bi-lingual skills.
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.