Search Community And Economic Development jobs

60 Community And Economic Development Jobs

60 jobs found Jobs found Email me jobs like this
Load More

  • Economic Development Director

    Kennewick, Washington United States City of Kennewick, WA Full Time $130,140.00 - $173,508.00 Annually Jun 07, 2025
    City of Kennewick Employer:

    City of Kennewick, WA

    Located in beautiful southeastern Washington State, Kennewick is the largest of the Tri-Cities Metropolitan Statistical Area and at the forefront of statewide growth. Benefiting from a talented labor force, steady job market and low cost of living, Kennewick is a thriving city attracting tourism and a reputation for fun. The pursuit of happiness stretches 26 square miles and features a variety of sports and recreational activities, entertainment, the region’s retail shopping hub and a casual, easy-living vibe. Nestled in the heart of Washington wine country, Kennewick boasts over 160 wineries within a 50 mile radius. More than 300 days of sunshine and its location along the Columbia River provide a variety of recreational activities including world-class fishing, birding, bike trails and parks. The City of Kennewick serve 85,000 citizens, administer 300 services over 12 departments, and employ over 400 employees. The City of Kennewick provides excellent public service, ensuring the safety and wellbeing of our community and one another through the empowerment of each employee.  We take pride in our dynamic team and have a vision of Leading the Way.  We are accountable to our community for innovation and collaborative efforts that anticipate needs, leverage resources, and deliver solutions.  Join our team and the City of Kennewick family!

    Apply Now View job Employer Profile

    Job Description

    Description

    First review after four weeks: 7/4/2025

    CORE VALUE STATEMENT
    The City of Kennewick will provide excellent public service and ensure the safety and wellbeing of our community and one another through the empowerment of each employee. We value integrity, inclusiveness, stewardship, and communication. We are accountable to our community for innovative and collaborative efforts that anticipate needs, leverage resources, and deliver solutions.

    SAFETY STATEMENT
    We expect our employees to ensure compliance with all applicable safety practices and policies, including those established by OSHA/DOSH regulations and by the City’s Accident Prevention Plan. This includes but is not limited to actively identifying and correcting potential hazards that may affect employee and public safety, including those identified by co-workers; leading by example to promote a positive culture of workplace safety through everyday action; and emphasizing safe completion of work throughout all aspects of developing and carrying out work plans.

    CLASSIFICATION SUMMARY
    Under general direction of the Community Planning Director, develops, implements, and manages the City’s economic development strategy plan. This position is responsible for the development, recommendation and implementation of policies, programs and procedures that accomplish the City's goals and objectives to ensure the economic health and vitality of the City. This position works collaboratively with Community Planning and Public Works for business recruitment, retentions, and
    expansion. This position provides highly responsible support to the City Council, City Manager, and Leadership Team. Work involves the use of initiative, project management, and independent judgement. This is a single position classification. It is not part of a series.

    WORK SCHEDULE
    The initial work schedule for this classification will be full-time, Monday through Friday. Early mornings, evenings, and weekend work may be occasionally required. This classification is exempt under the FLSA.

    Examples of Work Performed (Illustrative Only)

    ESSENTIAL DUTIES
    The following list reflects the essential job duties and responsibilities of this classification but should not be considered all-inclusive. The incumbent will be expected to perform other related duties as assigned.
    • Development of short and long-term economic development plans, as well as gathering of information and preparation of studies, reports, and recommendations to achieve such goals.
    • Proposes measurable outcomes and manages efforts to achieve economic development, such as job creation goals established by the City Council; outreach to attract new and retain existing employers to the City of Kennewick; and entrepreneurial and business climate support in alignment with Council’s vision for our strategic opportunity centers.
    • Responds to site selector and developer inquiries regarding locating in the City of Kennewick to include providing information on applicable real estate listings, market analytics, demographics, available utilities and other pertinent information. Including assisting selectors, developers, business owners, and entrepreneurs in coordinating with internal departments regarding their economic development interests.
    • Provides coordination and leadership of economic development initiatives and Council priorities, such as rivershore conveyance, workforce development, placemaking activities, downtown revitalization, and tourism.
    • Build and maintain strategic partnerships with local businesses and property owners to facilitate economic development opportunities, supporting both business retention/recruitment efforts and property redevelopment initiatives that benefit all stakeholders.
    • Plan and conduct business visits within target industries to generate job creating projects, opportunities for workforce training grants, and to support the needs of local business.
    • Connects developers and businesses with the appropriate internal and external services to navigate the development process, business licensing, and municipal code compliance inherent in successfully doing business in Kennewick.
    • Develops and manages the City’s Economic Development Marketing Plan based on the City Council’s goals and priorities, and collaborates with the Communication & Marketing Specialist to implement the plan.
    • Researches, develops and recommends new emerging communication methods, technologies, and enhancements to better market the City of Kennewick as related to economic development.
    • Assists in the management of the economic development website and social media postings. Responsible for creating and updating content for economic development and business recruitment efforts.
    • Seeks local, state, and federal grants to support City priorities; communicates grant opportunities to City departments; and helps coordinate application for public and private grants.
    • Provides technical expertise on issues such as incentives, regulations, and other issues pertaining to economic development.
    • Provides leadership in the area of special events such as dedications, groundbreakings, ribbon cuttings, and receptions; shop local initiatives; business appreciation events and campaigns; and legislative and site selector tours.
    • Attends tradeshows to market the Tri-Cities region, with an emphasis on business recruitment to Kennewick; makes business contacts and follows up with prospects.
    • Develops and implements business retention & expansion measures, intended to reduce businesses relocating outside of the City and attract new, complimentary businesses that create sector synergy and support entrepreneurship.
    • Maintains partnerships and collaborates with regional economic development and planning organizations, ports, chambers of commerce, downtown association, tourism bureau, civic groups, business owners, and community development-related organizations and agencies.
    • Assists in developing and managing the division budget.
    • Coordinates the City of Kennewick’s Sustainability Program.
    • Performs other related duties as assigned.


    Employment Standards

    MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
    This position requires a Bachelor’s degree in economic development, business/public administration, or related field and five (5) or more years of substantial experience in planning, economic and/or community development and strategic communications, preferably in a local government environment. In addition, various disciplines of economic development including primary sector recruitment, retention, and expansion are highly desired. The City may consider any combination of relevant education and experience sufficient to demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the essential duties listed above.
    • Must possess and maintain a valid State of Washington driver’s license.
    • Must pass a criminal background investigation.
    • Must maintain a level of mental and physical fitness required to perform the essential functions of this classification.


    Supplemental Requirements

    Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
    To perform the essential functions of the classification, incumbents must be able to demonstrate the following knowledge, skills and abilities:

    Knowledge of:
    • Administrative principles and practices including program development, implementation, and project management.
    • Basic math skills and accounting. Ability to formulate and evaluate financial proposals and analyze “deals.”
    • Principles and practices of advanced strategic planning, project planning, public communication, plan development, and the production of support materials.
    • Principles and practices of public/media relations, public speaking, community relations, economic development, marketing, and advertising; research methods, techniques, and public involvement strategies; methods to develop strategic communication in a rapidly changing environment; implementing creative marketing plans and developing multi-media presentations.
    • Communication techniques including verbal, written, online, media, and other technology, along with how to strategically apply them in a municipal environment.
    Skills & Ability to:
    • Organizational skills to effectively manage multiple priorities and competing deadlines.
    • Must be able to analyze data, determine trends, and apply the results
    • Ability to anticipate reactions from public, elected officials, business community, and governmental agencies to manage various situations.
    • Utilize word processing and other software to efficiently carry out work assignments.
    • Research, analyze, and compose reports, research papers, and documents that clearly communicate the subject matter.
    • Work with a high degree of autonomy, exercising personal initiative.
    • Maintain confidentiality of politically sensitive materials and information.
    • Build and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with a variety of internal and external customers and contacts.
    • Remain flexible to changing priorities, multi-task, and work independently.
    • Must maintain regular attendance and punctuality.
    Physical Requirements:
    To perform the essential functions of the classification, incumbents must be able to meet the following physical requirements: must regularly talk, hear/listen, see/observe, sit, stand and walk; must regularly demonstrate fine motor skills; must occasionally exert up to 10 pounds of force.

    The benefits listed below are those currently enjoyed by full-time City of Kennewick Non-Contract employees. It is important to remember that over the course of time these benefits may change - they are not permanent. Benefits may change through City Council or administrative action or changes mandated by state and federal law.

    Paid Holidays
    12 per year (9 scheduled; 3 “floating”)
    New Year's Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday, Washington's Birthday, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day and the day after Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and three floating holidays selected by the employee. An employee will accrue one of the three floating holidays on each of the following days: February 1, February 12, and August 31. An employee will only accrue a floating holiday on these days if actually employed.

    Paid Time Off (PTO)
    The purpose of PTO is to compensate employees for absences due to injury, illness, vacation and personal business. In addition, the program is designed to provide employees with personal flexibility regarding the use of leave hours. PTO hours accrue based upon the actual number of regular hours worked.

    Accrual per Month:
    0-5yrs 6-9yrs 10-14yrs 15-19yrs 20-24yrs 25-29yrs 30+yrs
    12 hours 15 hours 17 hours 19 hours 21 hours 23 hours 25 hours

    Retirement Plan
    All City employees are members of the Public Employees Retirement System (PERS). The City and the employee both contribute toward the plan. PERS provides regular retirement and disability retirement benefits. City employees also participate in the Social Security Program. Rates effective as of 09/01/2024. ( www.drs.wa.gov )

    PERS Employee Contribution Rate Employer Contribution Rate
    Plan II 6.36% 9.11%
    Plan III Employee Choice (see booklet) 9.11%

    Deferred Comp
    The City contributes an equivalent of 5% of your regular monthly salary to Mission Square Retirement (previously ICMA) deferred compensation program. No employee match required, but employees may contribute towards plan if desired. ( www.icmarc.org )

    Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
    The City currently pays the entire dental and vision insurance premiums for the employee and dependents. Employee current premium share is $200.00 per month for medical insurance to cover themselves and dependents.

    Life Insurance
    1.5 x annual salary (not to exceed $250K) provided by the City of Kennewick. Employee may purchase Voluntary Term Life Insurance for employee, spouse and/or dependents through New York Life (previously Cigna).

    Long Term Disability
    The City pays the entire long-term disability premium for employees through New York Life (previously Cigna).

    Wellness Program
    The Wellness Program has been established to encourage employee health and fitness, both at work and at home. A City Wellness Committee promotes and provides opportunities for healthy lifestyles. Employee fitness center is open to all employees and their spouses.

    Employee Assistance
    An Employee Assistance Plan (EAP) is provided by the City to assist you and family members, providing counseling and treatment in such areas as stress, drug and alcohol abuse and family counseling.

    Other Benefits Offered
    • Flexible Spending Plan (Pre-Tax Deduction for Medical/Dental and Day Care)
    • Aflac Supplemental Insurance
    • Tuition Assistance
    • Bereavement Leave
    • Overtime
    • Direct Deposit (paydays are 5th and 20th of the month)


    Closing Date/Time: 7/18/2025 11:59 PM Pacific
    Apply Now View job Employer Profile

    Please mention you found this employment opportunity on the CareersInGovernment.com job board.

LATEST JOBS

Navigating the Path to a Career in Community and Economic Development

Navigating the Path to a Career in Community and Economic Development

In the dynamic field of community and economic development, professionals dedicate their efforts to crafting strategies that stimulate growth, enhance community well-being, and foster economic prosperity.

For those intrigued by the opportunity to shape the futures of communities and regions, a myriad of job prospects await.

Let's dive deeper into exploring community based organizations and the job sector surrounding it, while also looking at some step-by-step processes for on applying to these positions through our dedicated website.

 

Understanding Economic Development Jobs

Community and economic development jobs encompass a range of roles dedicated to improving local, regional, and national communities from economic, social, and financial standpoints.

These positions often involve the community development department collaborating with leadership councils, non-profit organizations, and government entities to devise and implement development plans that address local needs and opportunities.

What Types of Jobs are Available in the Community and Economic Development Sector?

Though not fully extensive, here is a look at some of the most common types of careers that fall under the umbrella of community and economic development positions in the public sector.

category0013-image-001-careers-in-government
Economic Development Officer:

An Economic Development Officer is responsible for keeping the focus on attracting businesses, supporting local enterprises, and job creation strategies, aiming to stimulate economic growth and prosperity within the community through strategic partnerships and initiatives.

Explore Job Categories:

These types of coordinators work on community engagement connection initiatives, social development projects, and enhancing public amenities, fostering a sense of belonging and well-being among residents while addressing local needs and aspirations.

Urban Planner:

An Urban Planner gets the unique role of being involved in planning and zoning to ensure sustainable growth and the effective use of land, striving to create vibrant, resilient communities that balance economic development with environmental conservation and social equity.

Project Manager:

While a project manager can mean a large variety of things, the biggest role they play is to oversee specific development projects and programs, while also ensuring they are completed on time, within budget, and meet community needs.

Project managers will perform related duties to leadership positions and are tasked with serving as a catalyst for positive change and improvement within the community through meticulous planning and execution.

Policy Analyst:

A policy analyst will research and prepare reports as well as develop policies related to economic and community development.

A policy analyst makes presentations and performs related duties that allow for leveraging of data-driven insights to inform decision-making and drive positive outcomes for the community.

Director of Economic Development:

Economic Director roles are key in working closely with leadership to set strategic directions, foster collaboration and innovation, as well as to drive economic growth and prosperity at the local, regional, or national level.

They are versed in working well with everyone from property owners to the city council in areas of code compliance, economic advancement, and other types of operations that affect a jurisdiction in growing responsibly and in a way that's healthy for everyone.

Sustainability Coordinator:

State and city departments often need a sustainability coordinator to help develop and implement strategies for sustainable community and economic growth, which will eventually work to promote environmentally responsible practices and resilience-building initiatives.

Sustainability Coordinators are key to making sure that long-term prosperity and well-being for current and future generations are possible.

Careers In Government
 

Begin Your Career Journey

Launch your career with Careers in Government! Explore exciting opportunities, connect with passionate professionals, and shape your legacy.

JOIN NOW
 

Are You Ready to Apply for Community Development Jobs?

Our website serves as a comprehensive platform for those seeking to embark on or advance their careers in community and economic development.

Here's how to utilize our site to find and apply for your next opportunity:

Step 1: Explore Job Listings

Begin your journey by browsing the current job listings on our website and finding the economic development department positions that appeal to you.

Look at the program goals, the types of tasks you'll be assigned, and what related work is involved.

Use filters to narrow down your search based on location, job type, and experience level. (If you need technical assistance with the application process, reach out for guidance on this.) Each listing provides detailed information, including job responsibilities, qualifications needed, and application deadlines.

Step 2: Understand the Job Requirements

Take the time to thoroughly read the full job description before you decide to apply for any job to ensure that you are one of the qualified individuals they are looking for.

Pay close attention to the qualifications required, such as educational background, experience, and specific skills. Jobs in this field often require at least a bachelor's degree and a keen understanding of both community development and economic development principles.

Step 3: Prepare Your Application

Government jobs often have set dates and deadlines for accepting applications. Pay close attention to the closing date before you begin you application.

  • Resume/CV: Highlight your relevant experience, particularly any work with leadership councils, executive leadership roles, or significant projects in community or economic development. Make it clear what type of general supervision you work best with and where your core strengths lie.
  • Cover Letter: Tailor your cover letter to each job application. Mention specific projects or initiatives you've led or contributed to and how they align with the job you're applying for.
  • Supporting Documents: Prepare any additional documents requested in the job listing, such as references, portfolios, or certifications.
Step 4: Submit Your Application

Follow the application instructions provided in the job listing carefully. Sometimes an organization may require you to apply directly through our website, while others might direct you to an external application process.

Step 5: Prepare for Interviews

If your application progresses to the interview stage, prepare by reviewing common interview questions in community development.

Be ready to discuss specific projects you've worked on, challenges you've overcome, and how you've contributed to economic and community growth.

Step 6: Continuous Professional Development

Regardless of the outcome, continuously seek opportunities for professional development.

Attend workshops, seminars, and conferences related to community and economic development. Stay informed about the latest trends and innovations in the field.

 

When You're Ready to Chart Your Next Chapter...Let Us Help

Careers in community and economic development are uniquely rewarding, offering the chance to make tangible differences in people's lives and the well-being of communities.

These roles allow professionals to work on a diverse array of projects, from revitalizing urban centers to developing sustainable economic strategies for rural areas.

A career in economic development is not just a job—it's a commitment to fostering environments where economies can flourish and communities can thrive.

Our website is your gateway to finding a role that matches your skills, passions, and career ambitions in this vital sector.

By following the steps outlined above, you can navigate the application process and take your first step toward a fulfilling career in community and economic development.

Whether you're aspiring to join a leadership council, work in an economic management position, or contribute to community development, your journey starts here.

category0013-image-002-careers-in-government

Unlock Government Opportunities with Careers in Government

Elevate your career or find the ideal government talent on Careers in Government! Explore and shape the future with us.

JOIN NOW
 
SHOW MORE