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Job Description:

Join a team that keeps essential administrative and operational functions running smoothly behind the scenes at the Center for Industrial Research and Service (CIRAS). This role provides critical support for day-to-day office operations that enable staff to serve clients, manage projects, and deliver impactful programs across Iowa.

The Administrative Assistant II is responsible for a wide range of operational and transactional duties, including processing invoices and purchases, maintaining records and data accuracy, supporting communication workflows, managing office correspondence (mail, email, and phone inquiries), and coordinating general office activities.

This position requires strong attention to detail, the ability to follow established processes with accuracy, and the confidence to manage multiple administrative systems independently. The ideal candidate is proactive, organized, and comfortable establishing their own daily workflow with minimal supervision.

 This role requires someone who excels at learning new technology, can quickly adapt to multiple software platforms, and is comfortable independently navigating databases, reporting tools, Microsoft Office applications, and CRM or enterprise systems with minimal supervision in a fast-paced administrative environment. Successful candidates will demonstrate the ability to work independently, establish priorities, and manage daily workflow with minimal supervision in a structured office environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience coordinating team meetings and events, including scheduling logistics, materials preparation, catering and vendor coordination.
• Experience supporting administrative processes such as invoicing, purchasing, reimbursements, or other transactional/financial workflows
• Experience using multiple enterprise systems (e.g., CRM, financial, purchasing, database, or reporting systems) with demonstrated ability to quickly learn new technology
• Experience in a higher education administrative 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

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.

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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.