Economic Development Coordinator II - Project Intake

Nature of Work

If you're a strategic thinker who enjoys leading complex development projects, mentoring teammates, and helping shape the future of Grand Rapids through impactful economic development initiatives, this is an opportunity to make a lasting difference. The purpose of this job is to manage the application and approval process for various tax abatement and tax increment financing programs. The majority of time is dedicated to supporting projects for the Grand Rapids Brownfield Redevelopment Authority.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Manages and implements the core programs of the Economic Development Department, including various tax abatement programs as authorized by State Legislation, with primary focus on application and approval of Brownfield redevelopment projects and various tax abatements.
• Manages the project pipeline by coordinating overall project flow with the Director and partnering with the Coordinator I to allocate and balance duties between the two roles.
• Evaluates project proformas to determine appropriate level of incentive support.
• Collaborates with businesses and developers to ensure projects support City priorities.
• Responds to inquiries from, and provides detailed guidance to, potential applicants, other municipalities requesting information and citizen inquiries regarding specific projects.
• Serves as a liaison for businesses and developers to other City departments to identify and achieve resolution to issues.
• Reports on progress and outcomes of departmental programs and initiatives.
• Performs program evaluation and identifies process improvement; participates in program modifications and/or policies to align with City priorities.
• Serves as a liaison for businesses and developers to other City departments to identify and achieve resolution to issues.
• Supports utilization of grant funds; financial administration and reporting requirements of grants.
• Attends and presents at a variety of internal and public meetings and conferences including monthly board meetings of the Brownfield Redevelopment Authority.
• Prepares and reviews a variety of correspondence and reports related to the work; assists with special projects; maintains records and statistics.
• Prepares Requests for Qualifications (RFQs) and Requests for Proposals (RFPs) to support the City’s property disposition efforts, advance strategic development opportunities, and facilitate the selection of qualified partners for priority projects.
• Participates, informs, and recommends policy changes and guidelines for implementation.
• Assesses and recommends process improvement tools and changes.
• Travels for work-related conferences and trainings, including occasional overnight stays.

Minimum Training And Experience Required

• Education and Experience: Bachelor's degree in business or public administration, urban planning, or a related field --AND-- Five (5) years of professional experience related to economic development --OR-- Any equivalent combination of training, education, and experience that provides the required skills, knowledge, and abilities.
• Other Information: We Offer Medical, Dental, and Vision starting on Day 16% employee 401a contribution with employer matching (6% or 7% based on bargaining unit)Employee & Employer contributions to Retiree Health Savings AccountVoluntary benefits such as term life insurance, flexible spending accounts, accidental insurance, disability insurance, and deferred compensation plan optionsTwelve Paid HolidaysPaid Vacation and Sick TimePaid Parking (if applicable)Employee Home Ownership IncentiveTuition Reimbursement and professional development opportunitiesPaid Parental LeaveEmployee Assistance Program with free mental health counselingComprehensive Wellness program with a health and wellness incentiveEmployee Discounts and Perks Should an applicant need any disability related accommodation or other consideration in the application or selection process, please notify the human resources department upon submittal of application The City of Grand Rapids does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy or gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factor. Please Note This position is subject to the provisions of the applicable collective bargaining agreement and all relevant civil service rules. For additional information, links to union agreement and Civil Service Rules are provided below. Collective Bargaining Agreements Civil Service Rules City of Grand Rapids Employee Benefits Webpage