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Process Optimization Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Manufacturing Engineer

Davenport, IA · On-site

$46 - $48/hr

Implement process optimization for assembly operations * Support new technology adoption in manufacturing processes * Improve ergonomics and cost efficiency on the shop floor Required Qualifications ...

Controls Engineer - DeltaV

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$125K - $135K/yr

This individual will play a key role in plant reliability, process optimization, capital projects, and continuous improvement. Key Responsibilities * Design, program, troubleshoot, and maintain ...

Develop scrap recipes based on different feedstocks for production trials with the purpose of optimizing the electric arc furnace scrap melting process. * Develop an understanding of the relationship ...

Showing results 21-40

Process Optimization information

What is process optimization?

A Process Optimization job focuses on analyzing, improving, and streamlining workflows to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve overall performance. Professionals in this role use data analysis, automation, and best practices to identify bottlenecks and implement solutions. They often collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive continuous improvement and ensure sustainable operational success. Depending on the industry, this role may involve Lean, Six Sigma, or other methodologies to optimize business processes.

What does a process optimization specialist do?

A typical day for a Process Optimization professional involves analyzing current workflows, identifying areas for improvement, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to implement solutions. You may spend time mapping out processes, conducting data analysis, and facilitating meetings or workshops to gather input and drive change. The role often requires balancing hands-on problem solving with documentation and reporting progress to stakeholders. Close collaboration with departments such as production, quality assurance, and IT is common to ensure sustainable improvements. These varied responsibilities keep the work dynamic and provide opportunities for ongoing learning and impact.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed for process optimization?

To thrive in Process Optimization, you need strong analytical skills, a background in process engineering or industrial engineering, and often a relevant degree in engineering, business, or operations management. Familiarity with process mapping software, Lean Six Sigma methodologies, and data analysis tools such as Excel, Minitab, or Tableau is commonly required, with certifications like Lean Six Sigma Green or Black Belt being advantageous. Exceptional problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and a collaborative mindset help candidates stand out in this role. These skills are crucial for identifying inefficiencies, facilitating improvements, and driving measurable results across diverse business operations.

What is a process optimization specialist?

A process optimization specialist is a professional who analyzes and improves business processes to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance quality. They often use tools like Lean, Six Sigma, or data analysis software and may require certifications in process improvement methodologies.

What jobs involve process improvement?

Jobs that involve process improvement include roles such as Process Improvement Specialist, Business Analyst, Operations Manager, and Lean Six Sigma Consultant. These positions focus on analyzing workflows, identifying inefficiencies, and implementing changes to enhance productivity and quality, often requiring skills in data analysis, project management, and familiarity with process improvement methodologies.

What are the most commonly searched types of Process Optimization jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Process Optimization jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Process Optimization jobs in Iowa?

For Process Optimization jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Process Optimization jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Process Optimization jobs in Iowa are:

Infographic showing various Process Optimization job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution.

Source to Pay System and Process Lead

Principal Financial Group

Des Moines, IA

$130K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

What You'll Do
This role will help further our procurement transformation journey by advancing Source-to-Pay (S2P) and Risk maturity through leading practices, process excellence, technology enablement, and data-driven decision making. The role will lead the expansion of Coupa S2P and Risk capabilities across international markets, own the product roadmap, enhance user experience, data quality and deliver scalable insights, automation, and governance that drive measurable business outcomes.
This is a strategic, hands-on role responsible for defining and advancing S2P processes, capabilities, and performance. You'll partner across Procurement, Finance, Technology, Accounts Payable, Risk, Law and Supplier Management to achieve business outcomes.
What You'll Do
  • Lead a portfolio of continuous improvement initiatives across the end-to-end Source-to-Pay lifecycle, including Sourcing, Supplier Management, Contracting, Procure-to-Pay, and Supplier Enablement.
  • Refine and maintain the S2P process roadmap, identifying opportunities to increase automation, standardization, efficiency, and business value.
  • Serve as the business lead for S2P processes and technology capabilities, ensuring solutions align with enterprise objectives and procurement transformation priorities.
  • Partner with Procurement, Finance, Supplier Management, Accounts Payable, and Technology teams to identify process gaps, address business challenges, and implement sustainable solutions
  • Establish, maintain, and continuously improve the S2P governance framework, including process ownership, RACI definitions, controls, policies, and supporting documentation.
  • Lead planning and execution activities that support expansion and adoption of S2P capabilities across regions, functions, and business partners.
  • Identify and deploy AI, agentic, and intelligent workflow capabilities that improve productivity, decision quality, and user experience across the S2P lifecycle.
  • Develop and govern enterprise S2P reporting, analytics, and performance metrics, including adoption, automation, compliance, cycle times, and operational effectiveness.
  • Partner with system administrators, analysts, and technology teams to expand capabilities in analytics, automation, reporting, and process optimization.
  • Influence stakeholders across all levels of the organization, driving alignment, adoption, and continuous improvement through effective change leadership.
  • Lead supplier enablement initiatives that improve e-invoice adoption, streamline supplier interactions, and increase procurement efficiency.

Who You Are
  • Bachelor's degree in Business, Engineering, Supply Chain, Information Systems, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
  • 10+ years leading procurement operations, S2P transformation, and Coupa platform strategy, implementation, or optimization.
  • Deep understanding of the end-to-end S2P lifecycle, from sourcing through payment.
  • Experience implementing, managing, supporting, or optimizing procurement and business spend management technologies.
  • Demonstrated success leading process transformation, governance, and continuous improvement initiatives across complex organizations.
  • Strong knowledge of strategic sourcing, procurement operations, supplier management, contracting, purchasing, accounts payable processes, and associated controls.
  • Proven ability to translate business needs into scalable process and technology solutions.
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and reporting skills with the ability to convert insights into actionable recommendations.
  • Experience developing performance metrics, dashboards, and reporting that drive operational improvements and business outcomes.
  • Proven ability to influence and collaborate with diverse stakeholders across procurement, finance, technology, and business functions.
  • Experience leading large-scale change management, adoption, and organizational transformation initiatives.
  • Strong project leadership and prioritization skills with the ability to manage multiple strategic initiatives simultaneously.
  • Familiarity with procurement orchestration platforms and workflow automation capabilities is a plus.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint; experience working with enterprise ERP platforms is beneficial.

Preferred Qualification
  • Coupa certification (current or previously held).

Ideal Candidate
The ideal candidate is a strategic and results-oriented S2P leader who thrives at the intersection of process, technology, and business transformation. You're equally comfortable discussing procurement strategy with executives, partnering with teams to redesign processes, and guiding the implementation of technology solutions that improve business outcomes.
You bring:
  • A consultative mindset with a passion for continuous improvement and digital transformation.
  • The ability to see the big picture while effectively managing details and execution.
  • Strong communication skills and executive presence, with the ability to build relationships and influence decisions across functions.
  • Curiosity to challenge the status quo and identify innovative ways to improve processes, systems, and user experiences.
  • The ability to navigate ambiguity, lead through change, and drive alignment in a complex, global environment.
  • A commitment to creating scalable, sustainable solutions that deliver measurable business value.

Why Join Us?
You'll help shape the future of procurement by driving meaningful transformation across our global Source-to-Pay ecosystem. This is an opportunity to influence strategy, modernize processes, leverage emerging technologies, and create lasting impact across the organization. If you're energized by solving complex challenges, leading change, and building world-class procurement capabilities, we'd love to hear from you.
Salary Range Information
$130,000 to $160,000
Salary Range
$130000 - $160000 / year
Time Off Program
Flexible Time Off (FTO) is provided to salaried (exempt) employees and provides the opportunity to take time away from the office with pay for vacation, personal or short-term illness. Employees don't accrue a bank of time off under FTO and there is no set number of days provided.
Pension Eligible
Yes
Additional Information
Work Authorization/Sponsorship
At this time, we're not considering applicants that need any type of immigration sponsorship (additional work authorization or permanent work authorization) now or in the future to work in the United States. This includes, but IS NOT LIMITED TO: F1-OPT, F1-CPT, H-1B, TN, L-1, J-1, etc. For additional information around work authorization needs please use the following links.
Nonimmigrant Workers and Green Card for Employment-Based Immigrants
Investment Code of Ethics
For Principal Asset Management positions, you'll need to follow an Investment Code of Ethics related to personal and business conduct as well as personal trading activities for you and members of your household. These same requirements may also apply to other positions across the organization.
Experience Principal
At Principal, we value connecting on both a personal and professional level. Together, we're imagining a more purpose-led future for financial services - and that starts with you. Our success depends on the unique experiences, backgrounds, and talents of our employees. And we support our employees the same way we support our customers: with comprehensive, competitive benefit offerings crafted to protect their physical, financial, and social well-being. Check out our careers site to learn more about our purpose, values and benefits.
Principal is an Equal Opportunity Employer
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.
Date First Posted (TTF)
8/12/2026
Latest Post Date: Careers - US
8/12/2026
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