Economic Development Officer

About the role

The City of Colorado Springs is seeking an experienced and visionary leader to serve as its next Economic Development Officer. This is an at-will position reporting directly to the Chief of Staff.

Responsibilities

• Leading citywide economic development strategies that promote business retention, expansion, redevelopment, and investment.
• Building strong relationships with regional economic development organizations, chambers of commerce, educational institutions, and state and federal partners.
• Prioritizing the continued growth of Colorado Springs' nationally recognized defense and aerospace industries through strategic engagement with military installations and the Department of Defense community.
• Promoting workforce development initiatives that strengthen the regional talent pipeline and address workforce needs.
• Negotiating and administering economic development agreements while presenting recommendations to City Council.
• Cooking complex development projects by bringing together City departments and external partners to facilitate successful outcomes.
• Evaluating economic opportunities through data analysis, financial review, and community impact assessments.
• Serving as a trusted advisor on economic development policy, strategic initiatives, and community partnerships.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in a related area of study, such as public administration, business administration, or economics.
• Five or more years of full-time, professional experience in economic development or a closely related field.
• Three or more years of administrator, leadership, and/or supervisory experience.

Qualifications

• One year of relevant work experience may be substituted for one year of required education (OR) one year of relevant academic coursework beyond the minimum requirement may be substituted for one year of required professional experience.

Skills

• Collaborative relationship building.
• Experience navigating complex economic development initiatives.
• Cultivating partnerships.
• Turning strategic opportunities into measurable results.
• Understanding how strong communities and thriving businesses go hand in hand.
• Passion for creating an environment where both can succeed.

Benefits

Additional compensation depending on the position, area of assignment, and specific job assignments, including shift differential, pay differential, acting or lead, special assignment, hazard pay, longevity, cell phone allowance, uniform allowance, relocation, awards, standby, call out, compensatory time off, tuition, overtime, extra duty, incentive, holiday premium, proficiency, and vacation sell back.

Pay

$165,084.47 - $198,180.64 Annually

Schedule

At-Will