Here are sample job advertisements for Economic Development, City Manager, and Community Development roles...

Director of Economic and Community Development

Town of Stonington 

Bachelor’s degree in Urban, Regional or Community Planning, Public Administration or a related field. A minimum of seven (7) years of progressively responsible professional experience in land use, planning management or economic development is required. Proven record of obtaining and administering grants is required.

• Identifies creative mechanisms to advance sustainable development, to support existing as well as attracting new businesses, grant writing and project management. Resolves complex issues at the direction of the First Selectman. Role requires independent judgement, initiative, maturity, and excellent communication skills. Maintains flexibility and confidentiality in response to the evolving policies and priorities facing the Town.
• Partners in the development and implementation of Economic & Community Development programs that are aligned with the town’s POCD. In addition to traditional economic development, projects may also include protecting and enhancing open space and farm land, creative approaches to transportation challenges, historic preservation, affordable housing, and addressing climate change. Additionally, oversees the Comprehensive Plan Update project, which will result in a contemporizing of current zoning regulations to enhance alignment with sustainable development outcomes, and the POCD while making them more user friendly.
• Prepares and/or reviews grant applications (CDBG, DOT, Economic Development, etc.) and effectively partners with others in the administration of grant programs and projects. Possesses considerable knowledge of Local, State, and Federal Land Use Regulations.
• Cultivates and maintains effective working relationships with public officials, residents, and other jurisdictions and agencies (including regional, state and federal) exercising related functions. Confers with attorneys, builders, and members of the public on economic and community development matters.

Experience with the use of computer hardware and software such as GIS and other related computer-based technologies is required. Certification as a Planner by the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) is desired. Must possess and retain a valid Motor Vehicle Operator’s License.

Background and credit checks will be performed. 

Economic Development Manager

Seaside California

Description

Join the City of Seaside’s management team and become part of something special! Seaside is the largest City on the Monterey Peninsula and has the greatest opportunity for growth and economic development. The City is looking for an experienced, talented, and creative Economic Development Manager to assist the City in taking the next steps to economic vitality.

Under administrative direction of the Community & Economic Development Director, the Economic Development Manager plans, organizes, directs and administers the City’s economic development activities and performs other work as required.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

The purpose of this classification is to develop and manage a quality economic development program for the City of Seaside that retains, expands, and attracts business firms in order to increase City revenue to improve City services, to develop/attract jobs and higher paying jobs for our citizens, and to develop a trained workforce.

Examples of Duties

The following tasks are typical for positions in this classification. Any single position may not perform all of these tasks and/or may perform similar related tasks not listed here:

• Represents City in discussions with private developers and public agencies regarding City’s participation in potential development projects. Negotiates financial and other terms under which City may undertake such projects.
• Meets with real estate brokers and owners of vacant and underutilized commercial properties to identify occupancy and development constraints, and works with property owners and City staff to minimize or eliminate those constraints.
• Meets with business representatives to determine overall growth and development needs and goals, in order to formulate needed economic development activities, programs and plans.
• Evaluates, identifies, and promotes model community and business/economic development projects.
• Coordinates the processing of development applications including coordination with other Departments, other government agencies, property owners, and citizens groups.
• Manages, directs, and evaluates subordinate staff.
• Develops programs to attract quality developers/development projects to the City.
• Oversees the work performed by consultant staff hired by the City. Evaluates services performed and costs for services performed by external consultants, vendors, and contractors.
• Prepares and administers operating budget for the Economic Development function.
• Assesses economic and fiscal impact of business projects to the City, and of City projects on the business community.
• Responsible for trouble shooting and problem solving of specific issues related to business retention and new business recruitment.
• Prepares variety of reports, recommendations, contracts and memoranda related to assigned activities and programs.
• Makes presentations to the City Council and Successor Agency Board regarding all matters related to economic development policies and activities.
• Conducts an on-going process of evaluation and review of program goals, objectives, strategies, and plans to ensure the long-term ability of the program to accommodate appropriate responses to new or changing issues and opportunities.

• Performs all other duties as assigned.
• Represents the City in meetings with developers, builders, citizens and other governmental agencies.

Typical Qualifications

Any combination of experience and education/training that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:

Education

Equivalent to graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with major course work in Public Administration, Economics, Urban Planning, or a closely related field. A master’s degree is desirable and may be substituted for one year of professional experience. Certification by the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) and/or possession of the Certified Economic Developer (CED) certificate is highly desirable.

Experience

Five years of increasingly responsible municipal experience in planning, redevelopment, community development, economic development, or a related field with at least three of the five years working in a government agency conducting economic development programs.

License Required
Possession of an appropriate valid California motor vehicle operator’s license.

Knowledge of:

• Principles and practices of public and private financing mechanisms commonly used to fund development projects.
• Principles of real estate including property acquisition, disposition, and marketing.
• Principles and practices of modern public administration, municipal budgeting, economic development, urban planning, zoning and management.
• General aspects of municipal government including labor relations, finance, principles of management.
• Principles and practices of governmental contracting and contract administration.
• Applicable state and federal laws affecting financing and management of city operations.

Ability to:

• Plan, communicate, delegate, and monitor a variety of concurrent projects.
• Communicate clearly and effectively orally and in writing.
• Work cooperatively and effectively with all individuals contacted during the course of employment, including the City Council, City Manager, City Department Directors, coworkers, subordinates, other employees of the organization, staff of other agencies, and the general public.
• Interpret objectives, regulations, and policies for the public.
• Formulate and present policy recommendations to the City Council, community organizations, and other boards and commissions.
• Analyze difficult problems, develop a positive course of action and follow through on its implementation.
• Demonstrate sound professional judgment, ability to reason logically, creatively and imaginatively.
• Understand quality site planning and architectural design principles and their application to development proposals.
• Formulate and present policy recommendations to the City Council, community organizations, and other boards and commissions.

Community Development Director

CITY OF BROOKSVILLE

A highly responsible professional and technical position directing the City’s Planning and Zoning and related programs, including Comprehensive Plan, development, land use, annexation, and other related activities.

Responsible for developing or proposing policies, planning and zoning regulations, implementing policies and procedures, and resolving complex technical problems. Supervision is usually in the form of broad administrative policy and instructions or general program objectives. Work is reviewed for compliance with City Manager’s directions and general and timely adherence to established City policies.

JOB FUNCTIONS:

* Develops and coordinates implementation of goals, objectives and policies of the Comprehensive Plan and revision to the Land Development Regulations.

* Presents staff reports and recommendations to elected and appointed officials at public hearings and workshops. Coordinates project task forces and committees which may include citizens, appointed and elected officials, and other agency personnel. Serves as liaison with citizenry, professional community and other governmental entities. Creates and maintains good working relationships with officials, other agencies, the general public, and other employees.

* Prepares reports and other documents including complex tasks in areas such as land use, economics, environment, health, recreation, comprehensive planning, transportation, housing, and land development regulations. Prepares complex reports, charts, graphs, and maps which clearly and concisely express the ideas and recommendations being made.

* Reviews and analyzes Federal and State regulations relating to planning, and zoning and aggressively pursues economic development/redevelopment programs.

* Receives and reviews rezoning, conditional use permits and special exception use permit applications for completeness and instructs citizens on procedures for filing rezoning, conditional use permits, subdivision approvals, annexation, special exception, use permit applications, and other permits.

* Performs background research, interviews and surveys relating to transportation, environmental, land use, housing, and economic development.

* Compiles data and prepares application for financial assistance from private and public sources. Directs disbursement of State and Federal funds and administration of grant projects to implement the established program goals and objectives and directs project activities to insure administrative efficiency and compliance with laws, regulations, and standards, as they impact the City.

* Prepares budget estimates for program activities, establishes and maintains accounting records. Meets with and discusses the various components of on-going programs with grantor agency monitoring personnel concerning, but not limited to: financial management, development of minority business enterprises, fair housing, acquisition of real property, relocation of displaced persons, environmental assessment, rehabilitation of privately owned property, and public works projects. Provides appropriate records needed by monitoring teams and responds to any findings or concerns submitted by grantor agency. Prepare and submit necessary reports to grantor agency during the course of program implementation and completes documents for program close-out. Reviews official directives and correspondence to ascertain prescribed changes in agency programs, policies, and procedures.

* Represents City or makes presentations of plans and proposals to other government jurisdictions and community service organizations.

* Willingness and ability to comply with the City’s regulations and procedures, exercise sound judgment, perform at a high level of efficiency and productivity, and support the City’s goals and objectives.

* Advanced ability to read, comprehend, implement, and complete written and/or oral directions in English. Skill in English composition and spelling, and ability to prepare correspondence and make oral presentations at a professional level utilizing modern business English.

* Estimates project costs and prepares formal budget, including phasing schedules for program implementation. Develops staffing and work plan, and schedules in accordance with time limitations and funding.

* Performs individual assignments of a varied nature with minimal supervision. Establishes a schedule of priorities according to budgetary, personnel and timing constraints and revises the schedule as needed.

* May serve as City’s Community Development Agency Director.

* Perform other duties not specifically enumerated within the job functions listed above as may be required at the discretion of the City Manager.

KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES:

* Knowledge in planning, zoning, demographics, construction, engineering, budgeting, management, and laws and codes applicable thereto. Skills and abilities to plan, develop, present, and implement federal, state, and locally funded programs.

* Knowledge of Federal, State (particularly Florida’s Growth Management Act), and/or Local laws governing zoning, planning, and development regulations.

* Knowledge of land development regulation and the implementation techniques of growth management.

* Ability to project a good public image and maintain effective customer relations. Interact courteously with the public, officials, supervisors and co-workers.

* Skill in drafting official documents

* Comprehensive knowledge of business English, punctuation, spelling and arithmetic, and ability to express facts and ideas clearly and concisely, both in writing and orally to groups and individuals.

* Ability to organize, direct and effectively coordinate the activities of skilled, technical and professional personnel.

* Ability to make interpretive impartial judgmental decisions, provide professional input and reports for City officials and maintain effective working relationships with subordinates, City officials and the public.

* Ability to express facts and ideas clearly and concisely in English, both in writing and orally to groups and individuals.

* Knowledge of applicable laws and regulatory codes related to private/public sector improvement projects and developments.

* Computer software skills in word processing, database & spreadsheets.

* Ability to maintain acceptable attendance record.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Minimum:

Education: Bachelor degree in urban planning, public administration, or closely related field from an accredited College or University acceptable to the City. Experience: Five years as a Community Development Director or Assistant Director, or seven years of proven senior level urban planning experience, or an equivalent combination. A Master Degree from a College or University acceptable to the City may be substituted for two (2) years of experience. Bondable. Licensed Certification or Registration: Valid Florida Driver’s license. Preferred: A Master’s degree, supervisory, redevelopment agency, local governmental planning, and grant experience. Knowledge of regional area. American Institute of Certified Planners designation.

City Manager

City of Las Cruces, NM

As the chief administrator, the Manager is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the organization, managing the work of City personnel, and implementing Council policies, goals, and objectives. The City Manager provides Council with policy and program recommendations and develops the Annual Budget and multi-year Capital Improvement Program. The City Manager currently has six direct reports, which include the Chief of Staff, Assistant City Manager (2), Fire Chief, Police Chief, and City Attorney.

The City Manager’s Office in Las Cruces includes the following five divisions: Administration, Council and Community Support, Fiscal Management, Community Relations, and Fleet Management. The Office has 58.5 FTEs and a budget of $9.7 million.

Meeting or exceeding the minimum qualifications does not guarantee an invitation to participate in the process.

Duties and Responsibilities

• The City of Las Cruces is seeking a transformational leader to serve as City Manager. This individual has a commitment to public service and is forward-thinking, politically astute, and demonstrates sound judgment and exceptional decision-making skills. The ideal candidate has worked effectively in a council-manager form of government and has successfully implemented and carried out Council priorities and policies.
• The next City Manager is a relationship builder who effectively works with diverse groups of individuals and organizations. They are approachable and accessible and instill trust throughout the community, region, and organization. The successful candidate is a skilled communicator who demonstrates cultural sensitivity and understands the importance of effective civic engagement and in providing accurate and timely information. They are transparent, honest, and responsive.
• The City Manager is open and demonstrates a collaborative management style. They lead a team of accomplished professionals and are fully invested in their continued development and success. The ideal candidate leads without bias and engages with staff throughout the organization and provides support, direction, and feedback. The Manager encourages and motivates employees and has experience in succession and workforce planning.
• The ideal candidate demonstrates high ethical standards and integrity. The Manager is capable and competent in balancing multiple priorities and projects. They can manage high-pressure situations. The successful candidate has experience in municipal government functions, including financial and budget management, human resources, economic development, and risk management, and is familiar with public safety. They bring best practices in performance management, local government service delivery, and governance to Las Cruces.
• The next City Manager recognizes the importance of the rich history of Las Cruces and is fully invested in the community’s continued success. They will work closely with the Council to preserve the community’s identity and history while planning and preparing for its future.

PLANNING & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR

Town of Mooresville

General Statement of Duties

This position performs complex professional work in directing the current and long-range planning activities for the Town. Assist in the continued improvement to the image of the Town focused on responsible but progressive growth and development. Assists Town Management with implementing Town goals, conducting studies and analysis related to community development, developing and implementing process and policy improvements and related work as apparent or assigned. The position requires high-level management experience with the ability to work within the Council-Manager form of local government respecting the honorable positions of elected officials and the responsibilities of the Town Manager. This position will facilitate high quality economic investments and pursue quality of life improvements by establishing solid relationships with both the public and private sector.

Distinguishing Features of the Class

• The employee is responsible for the overall design of the planning program and for achieving tangible results in appropriate distribution and diversity of land use in the Town. Employees in this class are distinguished by exercising considerable independent judgment, initiative, and accountability. An employee in this class directs the planning, zoning and community development activities in the Town to ensure coordinated guidance and regulation of the growth and development of the Town.
• The role also includes developing a favorable relationship between the Town and the business and development community.
• Duties and Responsibilities
• Develops coordinates and directs a variety of special and continuing plans related to the growth, development and redevelopment of the Town; balances concerns for current and long-range planning efforts.
• Oversees the development and implementation of programs, policies and procedures for the department, or as directed by the Assistant Town Manager.
• Directs the processing and preparation of development, rezonings, annexations, grants, agenda items, and/or other related items.
• Along with other staff, act as an advocate for new businesses, land developers and investors, including problem solving in the areas of plan approval, permitting and licensing; provide technical expertise and respond to complex questions and resolve conflicts.
• Creates departmental policies as needed to ensure a smooth running department to comply with state and federal laws and Town ordinances and polices.
• Plans and communicates to employees short- and long-range directives for the day-to-day operation of the department, sets, follows and monitors work priorities and goals and effectively uses staff time, systems and resources to meet departmental goals.
• Works with a variety of boards, including Town Board, Planning Board, and ad hoc advisory committees; responds to changing management/Board priorities.
• Provides research and input into the development of ordinances, policies and procedures for the Town and the department; advises the Town Manager and Board on related issues.
• Directs the development, preparation and maintenance of all comprehensive plans, feasibility studies and other plans and studies.
• Along with other staff, oversees and manages the Town’s development review process and relations with the development community.
• Responds to public inquiries regarding planning operations, responds to requests from elected officials related to special programs, presentations and constituent services.
• Develops community development activities such as writing grants, administering grants, supervising contract staff for CDBG, HOME and related grant opportunities from the public and private sector.
• Oversees the administrative, fiscal and personnel matters of the department.
• Oversees budget and budgetary process for the department.
• Performs other related duties as requested.

Recruitment and Selection Guidelines

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Requires considerable knowledge of the principles and practices of community and economic development and public sector planning.
• Considerable skill in the collection, analysis and presentation of technical data and planning recommendations and in working with others in a joint cooperative manner that supports department and Town goals.
• Ability to deal tactfully and effectively with community groups, developers, consultants, the general public and federal, state, regional as well as Town officials.
• Ability to demonstrate flexibility and adapt to changing management/Board priorities and unexpected events without service disruption.
• Ability to prioritize multiple projects and assign resources appropriately.
• Ability to plan and direct a comprehensive planning program.
• Ability to understand long-range growth and transportation issues facing the Town.
• Tactical in nature with the ability to “see the big picture” and direct multiple groups to accomplish tasks.
• Ability to effectively plan for growth and transportation for the future.
• Must have a full understanding of basic urban redevelopment and growth concepts.
• Considerable knowledge of governmental laws, programs and services pertinent to the community and economic development and planning process.
• Physical Requirements
• Must be able to physically perform the basic life operational functions of walking, talking and hearing.
• Must be able to perform sedentary work exerting up to 10 pounds of force frequently or constantly to lift, carry push or pull or otherwise move objects. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time.
• Must possess the visual acuity to examine and work with maps, charts and detailed materials, operate a computer, ability to go and inspect sites regarding planning issues, use measuring devices, do figure computations and do extensive reading.
• Minimum Education and Experience
• Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university in planning or related field and five to seven years of professional experience in public sector planning with two years of supervisory and administrative experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Master’s
• Degree Preferred.

Special Requirements

Possession and maintenance of AICP certification.

Possession of a valid North Carolina Driver’s License

Completion of the North Carolina School of Government’s Municipal Administration Course is preferred.