CyBIZ Lab Program Specialist II

As a CyBIZ Lab Program Specialist II at Iowa State University, your primary responsibilities include overseeing student teams working on various consulting projects, mentoring students, analyzing complex data, and preparing them for high-level presentations. You'll also engage with industry clients, guiding students through the research and execution phases of their projects. Your role is crucial in linking the academic and business worlds, helping students gain hands-on experience while providing valuable insights to our clients.

To qualify for the CyBIZ Lab Program Specialist II position at Iowa State University, applicants should have a Bachelor’s degree and at least two years of relevant experience. Ideal candidates will have strong written and oral communication skills, a background in project management, and the ability to critically assess business challenges across various sectors. Experience working with student teams and familiarity with tools such as Microsoft Suite and market research databases are also preferred.

The CyBIZ Lab Program Specialist II role is unique at Iowa State University because it combines academic support with real-world application. You’ll be facilitating collaboration between students and actual businesses, allowing for practical learning experiences. This position helps students refine their skills in a professional setting while also providing businesses with fresh perspectives on their challenges. It’s an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on both student and client outcomes.

The CyBIZ Lab at Iowa State University benefits businesses by providing access to innovative solutions from fresh minds. Businesses work with student teams who bring diverse perspectives and up-to-date knowledge to analyze problems and develop strategies tailored to specific needs. This collaboration often results in actionable insights and positive business transformations, all while giving students invaluable experience in a real-world context.

During the application process for the CyBIZ Lab Program Specialist II position at Iowa State University, you can expect to submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and qualifications. If selected for an interview, be prepared to discuss your experience with project management, communication skills, and how you’ve guided teams in the past. Iowa State University strives to make this process as smooth as possible, so reach out to HR with any questions.

When answering this question, focus on specific examples where you've successfully guided students or team members. Highlight your approach to mentorship, how you support their growth, and any tangible outcomes from these experiences.

Discuss your experience managing several projects simultaneously, emphasizing your organizational skills and ability to prioritize tasks effectively. Showcase how you communicate with stakeholders and ensure that projects stay on track.

Provide a detailed overview of consulting projects you've undertaken, outlining your specific contributions. Describe the challenges faced and how you addressed them while ensuring successful outcomes.

Emphasize the importance of open communication and active listening. Share strategies you use to align team goals and keep everyone informed, as well as how you handle conflicts or misunderstandings.

Talk about the data analysis tools you are familiar with, such as Excel or market research databases. Be prepared to describe how you’ve used these tools in past experiences to inform decision-making.

Discuss methods you implement to help students prepare, including practicing public speaking, providing constructive feedback, and encouraging peer reviews to build confidence and presentation skills.

Highlight your strategies for staying informed, like subscribing to industry newsletters, attending conferences, or engaging with professional networks. Emphasize how this knowledge enriches student learning.

Share a specific situation where you encountered a challenging project. Describe the steps you took to analyze the problem, the solutions you considered, and the final outcome, showcasing your critical thinking skills.

Describe qualities such as strong communication skills, a collaborative spirit, adaptability, and a problem-solving mindset. Relate these attributes to how they would benefit the position and the students.

To answer this question, express your passion for education and student development. Share specific reasons why this role aligns with your career goals and how you admire Iowa State University's commitment to innovation.