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Job Specification Details

Economic Development Specialist II

Job Code 469100
Pay Plan Classified
Pay Grade 23
Occupational Category Administrative Services, HR & Fiscal Operations
Effective Date 05/02/2023
Class Definition

Highly responsible work providing a wide range of economic development knowledge and skill for the Department of Economic, Housing and Community Development in the Agency of Commerce and Community Development. The incumbent will work independently and report to the commissioner, deputy commissioner and interact with other department staff to further develop the department's strategic planning initiatives. Work is performed under the general direction of the Commissioner.

Examples of Work

Gathers, coordinates and analyzes data related to the specific industry sector, as stated in the strategic plan for the Department. The incumbent may be responsible for specific geographical territories, within which he/she independently serves as liaison with the Regional Development Corporations and other partners, local communities, and industry leaders to meet the needs of Vermont's manufacturing and business sector. Incumbent will create and execute a work plan, related to their assigned territory, to meet the objectives as set out in the Department's strategic plan, which will include special emphasis on Vermont prevailing environmental laws, tax structure, and other regulatory issues that affect manufacturing and business sectors. Serves as the Department's representative as an economic development partner with the manufacturing industry to provide assistance in areas such as state permits and regulations, workforce training, financing, and marketing either directly or providing linkages with specialists in the department and other economic develop service organizations. Monitors and assists the Economic Development Specialist I position. Serves as the administrator for the Department's customer relations management program insuring system security and integrity. Incumbent will coordinate and manage the quarterly partners meetings, and provide assistance and knowledge based support to both business training sessions and trade show development. Incumbent will provide outreach services to customers, insuring that customers are familiar with and able to access all of the Department's resources, including the Procurement Technical Assistance program, Vermont Training Program, the Global Trade Partnership as well as the Downtown Program, Growth Centers, New Neighborhoods, Community Development Block Grant Program and any other programs available through DEHCD or its partners. Performs related duties as required.

Environmental Factors

Duties require some travel both instate and outside the State as well as evening and weekend meetings with business and industrial clients, development organizations, and others. Considerable human relations and negotiation skills are required. Some public speaking will be required.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Knowledge of federal and state laws, rules, and regulations applicable to businesses, industries, and real estate development.

Knowledge of existing Vermont businesses and industries and the State's current general business and economic climate.

Knowledge of industrial marketing principles and practices.

Knowledge of current transportation, labor, and marketing information about Vermont.

Ability to communicate effectively and persuasively, in person, by phone and in writing, with officers of corporations and companies as well as community leaders.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships and to build trust with business and industrial clients.

Ability to assemble and analyze statistical, economic, and marketing information and make practical recommendations.

Minimum Qualifications

A bachelors degree or higher in accounting, finance, economics, government AND one (1) year of experience in local, state, or federal government or a not for profit.  Experience with grants for economic or community development is a plus.  

OR

Three (3) years' experience in any government or not for profit role relating to economic or community development. Grant experience a plus. 

Preferred Qualifications

Master's Degree.

Special Requirements

n/a