R&D Tax Credit Program Manager

Job Description

Drive Innovation. Ensure Compliance. Support Iowa Businesses. The Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) is seeking an R&D Tax Credit Program Manager to lead administration of the Iowa Research and Development Tax Credit Program, a key initiative supporting innovation and research investment across Iowa. This role plays a critical part in ensuring the program is managed effectively, transparently, and in compliance with state and federal requirements.

This position works closely with the R&D Tax Credit Project Manager and is a strong fit for professionals with experience in auditing, finance, research & development, compliance, or program management who enjoy analytical work, stakeholder engagement, and public‑sector impact.

The Iowa Economic Development Authority is dedicated to making Iowa the choice for people and business by building partnerships, leveraging resources, and strengthening economic and community vitality. IEDA administers several state and federal programs focused on business and community development to reach its goals of assisting individuals, communities, and businesses. Whether it is an enterprise or start‑up, a rural community seeking to preserve its history and highlight its arts and culture, or a community recovering from a disaster, IEDA creates opportunities for Iowans to thrive.

As the R&D Tax Credit Program Manager, you will provide expert guidance and play a critical role in shaping how this program is implemented and sustained over time.

• Develop and support program management strategies to ensure effective and sustainable program operations including program planning, program data synthesis, and report preparation.
• Ensure accountability and compliance of participating projects by conducting on‐site project monitoring activities including document review, discovery, and project review.
• Manage application intake, review, scoring, and disposition in accordance with program criteria.
• Provide technical guidance and program interpretation to applicants, recipients, consultants, and internal stakeholders.
• Advise program participants on issues of non‑compliance and work toward resolution.
• Coordinate program implementation efforts across internal stakeholders.
• Represent the program at industry events and stakeholder meetings to support outreach.

• Impactful Work:
  Play a key role in shaping Iowa’s economic impact through business and product growth.
• Professional Growth:
  Opportunities for attending conferences and workshops to promote programs and learn about their impact.
• Collaborative Environment:
  Work with a passionate team of professionals dedicated to making a difference and helping Iowa businesses flourish.

• Strong program and stakeholder management skills.
• Experience with financial, technical, or activity‑based documentation review.
• Ability to travel within Iowa for on‑site program and compliance activities.
• Dedication to uphold 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.

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

The R&D Tax Credit Program Manager position is a non‑merit, non‑contract position that is classified by the State of Iowa as an Economic Development Specialist 3 and is exempt per FLSA regulations. 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.

IEDA is an EEO/AA Employer. E‑Verify and Right to Work information is provided as required by law.