Technology and Commercialization Business Counselor

Position Title:

Job Group:

Required Minimum Qualifications:

Special Required Qualifications

Preferred Qualifications:

Job Description:

Summary

The State of Iowa Small Business Development Center (SBDC) located in Ames Iowa is currently taking applications for a full-time Program Specialist III to act as a Technology and Commercialization Business Counselor.

This position will be responsible for providing general business counseling with entrepreneurs covering both start up business discussions as well as existing business questions and assistance. General counseling will consist of analyzing individual business client needs and developing a customized process and procedure for each business client which could include workshops referrals to outside counselors or professional addition to scheduling client outreach this position will also provide assistance to walk-in clients; assist with the general management of the SBDC Office; and have the potential to work on greater outreach for the SBDC including meeting with external agencies Iowa State University constituents and different governmental departments.

They will also work with the SBDC offices across the state to counsel clients on Wellmark Applications. Small Business Innovation Research / Small Business Technology Transfer (SBIR/STTR) program understanding is also needed to assist with tech clients and their unique funding paths.

The successful candidate will possess excellent verbal and written communication skills and experience counseling clients on business ventures.

Example of Duties

Manages a program to ensure that implementation and prescribed activities are carried out in accordance with the objectives of the university.

Plans monitors and manages an internal or external project from initiation through completion.

Leads or coordinates project planning resourcing and staffing for assigned program.

Monitors and manages budget and ensures that the program meets the overall objectives of the university.

Develops public relations initiatives workshops seminars surveys or other activities to promote the program and carry out its objectives.

Acts as a representative of the program.

Participates in project management.

May secure external funding as needed.

Level Guidelines

Senior-level position possessing high-level professional and/or technical skills working independently under minimal supervision to support ISUs mission and department or work unit goals

Applies senior-level professional knowledge and expertise to work requiring greater latitude

Solves moderately complex problems and regularly exercises judgment to determine appropriate action

Regularly exercises judgment to resolve problems and determine appropriate action on a broad set of issues and problems.

May provide recommendations regarding problems/issues outside the bounds of defined procedures and practices

Responds to complicated inquiries provides training and provides direction to lower-level staff

May provide supervision for one to two other staff (i.e. leads a small work team)

May lead projects for which well-defined practices and procedures may not exist

Provides guidance to students

This position requires periodic statewide and occasional national travel.

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 posting will be open until filled. However to receive full consideration please apply before April 14th 2026.

Appointment Type:

Number of Months Employed Per Year:

Time Type:

Pay Grade:

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:

1) Resume/Curriculum Vitae
2) Letter of Application/Cover Letter

If you have questions regarding this application process please email or call or Toll Free: 1-.

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

Original Posting Date:

Posting Close Date:

Job Requisition Number: