Economic Development Specialist

Target Hiring Range: $65,894.40 to $73,216.42

Plans, initiates, and manages business retention, expansion, recruitment, and redevelopment initiatives. Works directly with developers, real estate investors, and existing and prospective businesses to expand and diversify the City of Farmers Branch’s tax base and employment opportunities.This is the journey-level classification in the Economic Development Specialist series. Incumbents perform a range of professional economic development duties under general supervision. Assignments are less complex than those of the Senior Economic Development Specialist and may be structured to provide training and development. Employees at this level typically exercise limited independent judgment and may perform routine or standardized tasks on an ongoing basis. Receives general supervision from higher-level management staff.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Assists in initiating, planning, coordinating, and supporting public and private economic development and redevelopment projects and research initiatives.
• Works with existing and prospective businesses to support retention, expansion, relocation, and recruitment efforts.
• Assists in negotiating and coordinating real estate development projects; supports site selection and land development processes.
• Conducts property and market analyses related to value, ownership, and title history.
• Maintains and manages client and stakeholder relationships.
• Assists in developing and implementing target market strategies, presentations, and marketing initiatives.
• Supports commercial real estate acquisition, management, and disposition activities, including coordination of inspections, appraisals, documentation, and escrow services.
• Prepares market and demographic information for business prospects.
• Assists in the development and administration of incentive programs.
• Collects, analyzes, and maintains economic, demographic, and market data; prepares reports, correspondence, and promotional materials.
• Assists with monitoring program budgets and expenditures.
• Serves as a liaison between the city and businesses, civic organizations, brokers, and other stakeholders.
• Coordinates logistics for meetings, events, and conferences, including setup, breakdown, and technical support.
• Maintains accurate records, files, logs, and databases.
• Performs purchasing and vendor coordination for servicing and marketing activities.
• Performs related duties as assigned by the Director or Deputy Director of Economic Development.
  
  

Experience:

Two (2) years of professional experience in economic development, business development, business management, regional economic analysis, marketing, land development or redevelopment, financial analysis, land planning, contracts, or a closely related field. Experience in a governmental setting is desirable.

Education:

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with a major in business, accounting, marketing, planning, economics, financial planning, real estate, or a related field.

A Combination Of Education And Experience May Be Considered. The City Evaluates 1.5 Years Of Full-time Experience As Equivalent To One Year Of Education.KNOWLEDGE:

• Knowledge of economic development principles and practices, including business attraction, retention, and expansion.
• Knowledge of community and workforce development strategies.
• Knowledge of research methods and data analysis related to social, economic, and industry trends.
• Knowledge of marketing and communications strategies, including web, print, and social media outreach.
• Knowledge of economic development incentives and compliance monitoring.
• Knowledge of Texas 380 economic development incentives and Texas Increment Reinvestment Zones (TIRZ)
• Knowledge of local government operations, policies, and interdepartmental coordination.
• Knowledge of real estate, development processes, and property data relevant to economic development.
• Knowledge of project management concepts and performance measurement.
• Knowledge of CRM systems, databases, and reporting tools used in economic development.
• Knowledge of professional standards, ethics, and public-sector accountability.
  
  

SKILLS:

• Skill in researching, collecting, and analyzing data to support strategic decision-making.
• Skill in written and verbal communication, including report writing, presentations, and stakeholder correspondence.
• Skill in marketing and promotional support, including contributing to campaigns that enhance the City’s image.
• Skill in collaboration and relationship-building with businesses, developers, community partners, and internal departments.
• Skill in project coordination and multi-tasking in a fast-paced, evolving environment.
• Skill in administrative support, including maintaining databases, preparing reports, and supporting leadership.
• Skill in organizing meetings, events, and special projects.
• Skill in using Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel, for data tracking and reporting.
• Skill in using and learning CRM and data management systems (e.g., Monday, Microsoft Excel, Salesforce).
• Skill in time management and prioritization to meet deadlines and evolving priorities.
  
  

ABILITIES:

• Ability to support and implement economic development programs and initiatives aligned with City strategies.
• Ability to engage professionally and effectively with diverse stakeholders, including businesses, residents, advisory boards, and regional partners.
• Ability to interpret and apply data and research findings to inform recommendations and initiatives.
• Ability to adapt quickly and learn new tools, processes, and subject matter.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining attention to detail.
• Ability to take initiative and demonstrate a proactive, solutions-oriented mindset.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
• Ability to maintain accurate records and ensure data integrity.
• Ability to support leadership and departmental operations as priorities arise.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, as required.
• Ability to perform moderate physical activities, including standing, walking, reaching, and lifting up to 30 pounds.
• Ability to maintain a valid driver’s license and meet City driving standards
  
  

Licenses And Certificates:

Possession of a valid driver’s license at the time of application and maintenance thereafter.

Environment:

Work Environment:

Office and field settings; travel between sites; frequent use of computers and electronic devices.

Physical And Mental Requirements:

Ability to sit, stand, or walk for extended periods; operate standard office equipment; communicate effectively; read and prepare documents; make sound decisions; and interact professionally with others.