Business Counselor 2 - Fort Bend County SBDC

About the Role

Provides comprehensive business consulting services to small business owners on a wide range of topics. Support may be provided in an assigned specialized area or areas. Consults with clients throughout the Gulf Coast region of Texas at the regional office, sub-center locations, or through on-site visits.

This position will be part of the Fort Bend County Small Business Development Center, with multiple locations throughout Fort Bend County. The role is currently expected to report to the location in Richmond, Texas, but may periodically require travel to other locations in Fort Bend, Matagorda, and Wharton Counties.

A key part of the position includes engaging and helping build relationships with stakeholders, such as the SBA and its resource partners, lenders, Chambers of Commerce, and other community partners.

Responsibilities

• Assist clients in analyzing business strengths and weaknesses and developing strategies for improvement.
• Assess clients' management and technical education needs and recommend appropriate training classes.
• Develop and update specialized training classes and materials for individual clients or groups; may conduct training seminars or presentations.
• Participate in public relations activities, including making speeches, presentations, and serving on various committees.
• Remain informed on changes in laws and regulations applicable to the area of specialization.
• Provide specialized support in areas such as obtaining contracts with federal, state, and local governments; enhancing product commercialization and technology; solicitation of financial support; or entering/expanding into international trade.
• May assist the director with a variety of administrative duties and responsibilities.
• Perform other job-related duties as required.

Requirements

• Thorough understanding of both theoretical and practical aspects of an analytical, technical, or professional discipline; or basic knowledge of more than one professional discipline.
• Knowledge of the discipline is normally obtained through a formal, directly job-related 4-year degree from a college or university or an equivalent in-depth specialized training program.
• Minimum of five (5) years of directly job-related experience.
• Experience in business advising services areas such as budgeting, financial analysis, marketing research, business plan development, capital access, and other business-related areas.
• A combination of experience related to small business consulting, banking and/or finance, and small business ownership.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint, and Excel) is required.
• Frequent travel with the use of a personal vehicle is required; out-of-town travel may be required periodically.

Skills

• Strong communication skills.
• Ability to work independently.

Pay

$56,800 - $64,600

Additional Information

The SBDC program is funded through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and the State of Texas. The continuation of this position is contingent on the continuation of funding from the SBA and the State of Texas at current levels.

All positions at the University of Houston System are security-sensitive and will require a criminal history check.