Innovation Project Manager

Innovation Project Manager

Salary

$63,585.60 - $98,633.60 Annually

Location

Des Moines - 50315 - Polk County, IA

Job Type

Full-time

Job Number

27-01279

Agency

269 Iowa Economic Development Authority

Opening Date

11/03/2026

Closing Date

11/15/2026 11:59 PM Central

LinkedIn Tag

#LI-DNP

Point of Contact

Bethany Sawatzky - bethany.sawatzky@iowafinance.com

To Apply

Submit an application, resume, and cover letter at jobs.iowa.gov by the position closing date.

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

Job Description

Help turn innovative ideas into opportunities for Iowa businesses and entrepreneurs.

The Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) is seeking an Innovation Project Manager to help administer programs that support innovation, entrepreneurship, small businesses, manufacturing and economic growth across Iowa. This position works across a diverse portfolio of Innovation programs, helping connect businesses and entrepreneurs with resources designed to support their growth. Youll combine program and project management with relationship building, data analysis, marketing and outreach to help advance IEDAs Innovation initiatives.

About Us:

At the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA), were dedicated to making Iowa the choice for people and businesses. We build powerful partnerships, leverage diverse resources, and drive economic and community vitality. From supporting startups and expanding enterprises to preserving the rich history and culture of rural communities, and aiding in disaster recovery, we create endless opportunities for Iowans to thrive.

Key Responsibilities:

As the Innovation Project Manager, you will manage assigned Innovation programs and help businesses, entrepreneurs and other stakeholders navigate program opportunities. Youll coordinate application and funding processes, administer boards and committees, develop partnerships, and represent IEDA with business, community and government partners.

• Manage Innovation programs including initiatives related to small businesses, manufacturing, entrepreneurship, infrastructure and investment, and help develop program policies, guidelines, applications and supporting materials.
• Lead application and funding processes by determining applicant eligibility, reviewing applications against established criteria, managing scoring processes and making funding recommendations.
• Guide applicants and program participants by communicating throughout the application process and providing technical assistance to applicants, prospective applicants and grantees.
• Coordinate boards and committees responsible for reviewing applications and proposals, and assist with quarterly Iowa Innovation Council meetings and work groups.
• Build partnerships and promote programs by working with industry trade associations, local economic development professionals, businesses, educational institutions, government partners and other stakeholders.
• Support program by helping implement marketing efforts, identifying eligible businesses and collaborating with partners on innovation and entrepreneurial events and activities.

An ideal candidate is:

• An organized project manager who can successfully coordinate multiple programs, application processes, deadlines and stakeholders.
• A strong communicator who can clearly present program information and provide useful guidance to businesses, entrepreneurs and community partners.
• Adaptable and solutions-focused, with an interest in innovation, entrepreneurship and economic development.
• Dedicated to our Core Values:

Accountability in Action - We take pride in our work and results.

Innovate Together - We thrive on solving challenges through dynamic collaboration with our teams and partners.

Mission Driven - We place Iowans at the heart of everything we do

As an employee of the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) | Iowa Finance Authority (IFA), youll enjoy the advantages of being a State of Iowa employee, with a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your health, financial security, and work-life balance. The State of Iowa offers a broad range of benefits for employees and their families, including health, dental, retirement, wellness, and income-protection programs.

• Generous Paid Time Off: Build time away for what matters most with vacation leave that carries over year to year, sick leave with unlimited accumulation, and (9) paid holidays.
• Affordable, Quality Health Coverage: Access comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits to help keep you and your family healthy. The State of Iowa offers health coverage administered by Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield.
• Retirement Security: Plan confidently for the future with the Iowa Public Employees Retirement System (IPERS) and additional voluntary retirement savings opportunities through the Retirement Investors Club.
• Life and Disability Protection: Eligible employees receive State-paid basic life insurance and long-term disability coverage, providing financial protection when its needed most.
• Wellness and Family Support: Take advantage of confidential Employee Assistance Program (EAP) services, wellness resources, and employee discounts on popular products and services.
• Additional Tax-Saving Benefits: Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) allow employees to set aside pre-tax dollars for healthcare and dependent care expenses.
• A Career with Purpose and Stability: Join a mission-driven organization where your work positively impacts communities across Iowa while enjoying the stability and benefits that come with public service.

Learn more about the benefits available to State of Iowa employees on the State of Iowa Benefits Overview.

New to the area or looking to relocate to Iowa? Visit ThisIsIowa.com to see how Iowa offers something for everyone- competitively low cost of living, bustling cities and neighborhoods, access to entertainment, opportunities for career growth and unrivaled access to outdoor adventures.

The Innovation Project Manager position is a non-merit, non-contract position that is classified by the State of Iowa as an Economic Development Specialist 2 and is exempt per FLSA regulations.

To Apply: Submit an application, resume, and cover letter at jobs.iowa.gov by the position closing date.

The Iowa Economic Development Authority is an EEO/AA Employer

Our agency uses E-Verify to confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees. To learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities, please visit www.dhs.gov/E-Verify.

E-Verify and Right to Work

The State of Iowa participates in E-Verify, a federal program that helps employers confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees. Within the required timeframe, new hires will be verified through the E-Verify system to ensure authorization to work in the United States. The State of Iowa also complies with the federal Right to Work laws, which protect employees' rights to work without being required to join a labor organization. For more information, please visit www.e-verify.gov.

This is a non-merit, position. Candidates must follow the instructions in the "To Apply" section. Positions in this class are exempt from the screening and referral requirements of the Iowa Department of Administrative Services - Human Resources Enterprise.

Minimum Qualification Requirements

Applicants must meet at least one of the following minimum requirements to qualify for positions in this job classification:

1) Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a degree in research, planning, economics, public relations, business, corporate finance, journalism, or marketing, and experience equal to two years of full-time work in interpreting laws, rules and regulations, and/or securing compliance with them; or compiling and evaluating statistical, historical, economic, business, financial, or technical related program data.

2) A total of six years of education and/or full-time experience (as described in number one), where thirty semester hours of accredited college or university coursework in any field equals one year of full-time experience. Notes Travel, including overnight travel, may be required for positions in this class. Employees must arrange transportation to and from assigned work areas.

For additional information, please click on this link to view the job description.

Additional Qualification Requirements

Travel, including overnight travel, may be required for positions in this class. Employees must arrange transportation to and from assigned work areas

Why Choose the State of Iowa?

At the heart of our commitment to excellence is a dedication to our most valuable asset - our employees. Discover the outstanding benefits that set us apart as an employer of choice.

Our Robust Benefits Package Includes:

Competitive Compensation:

Enjoy a competitive salary that reflects directly on your skills and expertise.

Keep in mind, your wage is just one part of your total compensation. Unlock the complete value of your employment with the State of Iowa by using our user-friendly Total Compensation Calculator. Gain insights into your comprehensive annual compensation, including salary and State-provided benefits.

Health and Wellness:

Prioritize your well-being with our comprehensive health plans, including medical, dental, and vision coverage. Enjoy the peace of mind knowing that the State of Iowa covers 90% of the premiums, providing you and your loved ones with excellent coverage at a remarkably low cost.

Retirement Planning:

We are proud to offer the Iowa Public Employees Retirement System (IPERS). A defined benefit plan, IPERS benefits are guaranteed for life, meaning once you retire, you will receive the same monthly benefit for the remainder of your life (once vested). We invest in your long-term financial well-being, so you can retire with peace of mind. Click here to learn more about IPERS.

Paid Time Off:

Life is unpredictable, and at the State of Iowa, we understand the importance of work-life balance. Our leave policies, including paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave with unlimited accrual, ensure you have the flexibility you need for personal and family matters.

Professional Development:

Elevate your career with continuous learning opportunities. We support your growth through training programs, workshops, and tuition reimbursement.

Employee Assistance Program (EAP):

We care about your well-being beyond the workplace. Access confidential counseling, resources, and support through our Employee Assistance Program.

Diversity and Inclusion:

Be part of a diverse and inclusive workplace that embraces all backgrounds and perspectives. We believe diversity is a strength that drives innovation.

Join Us - Elevate Your Career:

Ready to elevate your career with the State of Iowa? Click here to explore more about our unparalleled benefits and discover what makes us unique. Your success is our priority!

01

This position will be located at our Des Moines office location with the opportunity of occasionally working remotely. Relocation assistance will not be provided. Are you able to fulfill this requirement with or without a reasonable accommodation?

• Yes
• No

Required Question

Employer State of Iowa

Agency 269 Iowa Economic Development Authority Address 1963 Bell Ave

Suite 200

Des Moines, Iowa, 50315

Website iowaeda.com