Defense Contracting Team Lead

Iowa State University

17d

About The Position

The Center for Industrial Research and Service (CIRAS) at Iowa State University is seeking a qualified candidate to serve as the Defense Contracting Team Lead. The APEX Accelerator Program is a Department of War–funded initiative focused on growing and sustaining the government and defense industrial base. This position leads a team of government contracting specialists who provide client-centered coaching, education, connections, and technical support to help Iowa businesses pursue and succeed in government markets. The Team Leader will oversee delivery of technical assistance—including needs assessments and client-specific action plans—supporting clients through the federal and state/local acquisition processes, and provide guidance on registrations/certifications, opportunity identification, proposal development, defense innovation programs, contract compliance, cybersecurity, and related topics. In addition, the Team Leader represents Iowa State University, CIRAS, and the APEX Accelerator program externally; builds and maintains relationships with businesses, government agencies, and professional/trade associations; stays current on the federal contracting landscape and Department of War industrial base priorities; and drives change by continuously improving program services and curriculum to align with Department of War industrial base objectives. The successful candidate will bring strong business acumen, relationship-building capability, excellent written and verbal communication, and sound critical thinking/analytical problem-solving skills, with the ability to operate effectively amid ambiguity and change. This role includes staff leadership responsibilities such as team meetings, regular one-on-ones, performance coaching, capability development, and accountability for goals, metrics, and KPIs. This is a term position with an end date of June 30, 2028, with the potential for renewal based on funding availability. Employee must reside in or relocate to the state of Iowa on/before first day of employment.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree and 5 years of related experience
Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship.
Employee must reside in or relocate to the state of Iowa on/before first day of employment.

Nice To Haves

Demonstrated experience working in or with the Department of War (e.g., supporting Department of War initiatives, advising contractors serving Department of War needs, or working within Department of War culture and requirements).
Manufacturing sector experience (especially supporting manufacturers pursuing government/defense work).
Significant experience in federal contracting and the federal acquisition process, including advising businesses on registrations/certifications, opportunity identification, proposal development, compliance, and related requirements.
Proven people leadership experience (supervising, coaching, developing staff; driving performance toward goals/metrics/KPIs).
Strong stakeholder and partnership development experience with businesses, government agencies, and professional/trade associations; comfort serving as an external-facing representative/spokesperson.

Responsibilities

Conduct needs assessments and create client-specific action plans to expand government sales.
Provide strategic guidance and technical assistance on government contracting.
Coach clients and track progress toward goals.
Educate clients on state/local procurement, federal acquisition, registrations, certifications, bid opportunities, proposal development, defense innovation, compliance, and cybersecurity.
Connect clients to additional programs, partners, and resources.
Host events, workshops, and matchmaking sessions to share best practices and link businesses to opportunities.
Build and maintain professional relationships with businesses, agencies, and industry associations.
Represent Iowa State University, CIRAS, and the APEX Accelerator program.
Stay informed on federal contracting trends and Department of War industrial base priorities.
Improve programs, services, and curriculum to align with CIRAS and Department of War objectives.
Collaborate with CIRAS Strategic Advisors and Project Managers to deliver impactful solutions.
Lead and supervise government contracting specialists, interns, and student employees.
Hold team meetings and conduct regular one-on-one check-ins to align work and expectations.
Monitor and ensure achievement of team goals, metrics, and KPIs.
Support employee growth through coaching, feedback, and professional development planning.