Innovation Specialist

Shive-Hattery is a premier architecture and engineering consulting firm headquartered in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. In total, the firm has 16 offices across the US. Shive-Hattery was founded in 1895 and has earned and maintained a strong reputation for excellence in client focus, quality service and communication. The firm prides itself on its One Firm, full-service offering; placing the best people with their clients, no matter the project location.

Shive-Hattery has an immediate opening in our West Des Moines, IA office for an Innovation Specialist. This on-site position could also be fulfilled at the following office locations: Cedar Rapids, IA; Iowa City, IA; Bettendorf, IA; Chicago, IL; Valparaiso, IN; Saint Louis, MO; and Madison, WI.

We are seeking a curious, creative, and resilient Innovation Specialist-someone who thrives on learning, embraces experimentation, and is passionate about solving problems in new ways. This role is less about checking boxes and more about bringing a mindset of innovation, adaptability, and continuous improvement.

Your innovative use of technology will enhance our operations and make us a more effective team. You will be involved in initiatives that include the following responsibilities:

• Conduct research to identify emerging technologies and trends that can be leveraged to innovate and improve products, services, or processes.
• Working closely with cross-functional teams, including engineers, designers, and business strategists, to integrate innovative solutions into existing systems and processes.
• Develop prototypes and conducting tests to validate the feasibility and effectiveness of new technologies and innovations.
• Evaluate and implement new technologies to enhance operational efficiency, product quality, and customer experience.
• Analyze market trends and consumer needs to identify opportunities for innovation and stay ahead of the competition.
• Lead innovation projects from initial concept through final delivery, ensuring all expectations and objectives are met.
• Provide training and support to staff on new technologies and ensuring smooth adoption and integration within the organization.
• Continuously seek ways to improve and optimize existing technologies and processes to maintain a competitive edge.

Job Requirements

• A degree is not required-what matters most is your experience, curiosity, and ability to creatively apply technology to real-world challenges. Whether you've learned through formal education, hands-on work, or self-driven exploration, we value what you bring to the table.
• Proven experience in technology-driven roles, preferably in a creative or innovative capacity, with specific experience in the AEC industry.
• Comfortable using and learning new digital tools.
• Able to prototype ideas quickly using available platforms.
• Understands how to map workflows and identify opportunities for improvement.
• Familiarity with generative AI tools (e.g., M365 Copilot, Copilot Studio, Midjourney) is a plus-but more important is your willingness to explore and experiment with these tools to enhance workflows and spark innovation.
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to troubleshoot and resolve technical issues efficiently.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills to collaborate effectively with team members and stakeholders.
• Ability to think outside the box and develop innovative solutions to enhance operations.
• Demonstrated ability to work well in a team environment and contribute to collective goals.
• Flexibility to adapt to changing technologies and project requirements.
• Meticulous attention to detail to ensure accuracy and quality of work.

What We Value

• A natural curiosity and drive to explore new ideas.
• Comfort with ambiguity and a willingness to learn through trial and error.
• Perseverance and the ability to learn from failure.
• A collaborative spirit and strong communication skills.
• A passion for improving how things work-whether through technology, process, or mindset.

If you're someone who sees possibility where others see problems, who loves to tinker, test, and try again-we'd love to hear from you. Your mindset matters more than your resume.

Why Shive-Hattery?

Shive-Hattery is a premier architecture and engineering consulting firm headquartered in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. In total, the firm has 16 offices across the US. Shive-Hattery was founded in 1895 and has earned and maintained a strong reputation for excellence in client focus, quality service and communication. The firm prides itself on its One Firm, full-service offering; placing the best people with their clients, no matter the project location.

You will find the right balance at Shive-Hattery. A large pool of resources in a 500+ person design firm, with a small firm feel where you build personal connections with colleagues, partners and clients. Flourish as a professional with the freedom to chart your own course and make an impact - and Design What Matters to make the world a better place.

At Shive-Hattery, our learning and teaching culture is built on collaboration. You'll have the opportunity to both learn from and teach your peers, working across disciplines to enhance your skills and grow professionally.

We offer a competitive total compensation package, including industry-leading pay and over thirty-five benefits designed to support your well-being and career development.

Benefit Highlights:

• Medical, Dental, Vision - 4 tiers of coverage
• Voluntary Life Insurance - Employee, Spouse, and Child
• Voluntary Insurance Plans - Accident, Critical Illness, & Hospital Indemnity
• FSA - Medical & Dependent Care
• 8 Paid Holidays + PTO
• Paid Parental Leave
• 401K/Roth 401K with Company Match
• Overtime Bonus
• Profit Sharing Bonus
• First Time License Bonus
• Tuition Reimbursement & Licensure/Certification Financial Support
• Professional Development Opportunities
• Calm Meditation & Stress Relief Subscription
• ...And Many More!

Shive-Hattery offers a flexible work environment and supports balancing personal and professional responsibilities. We are 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 status as a protected veteran.