Economic Development Specialist

$90,845 - $110,423/Yr

City Of Fremont - Fremont, CA

Full-time - Entry Level

Fremont, CA

Justice, Public Order, and Safety Activities

About the position

The Economic Development Specialist plays a crucial role in promoting Fremont as a business destination while assisting in the retention of existing businesses and the establishment of new ones. Under general supervision, this entry-level position reports to the Economic Development Director and focuses on attracting, expanding, and retaining businesses through the implementation of citywide marketing plans and economic development activities. The specialist serves as a primary contact for businesses and commercial districts, providing essential support to the Economic Development Commission and executing various promotional tasks. The responsibilities of the Economic Development Specialist include explaining new business requirements to potential owners, assisting in business site selection, and directing business owners to local, state, and federal resources. The specialist also plays a key role in implementing the City's Small Business Program, organizing community events, conducting surveys, and facilitating educational workshops. Additionally, the specialist publishes the EBiz Newsletter, makes economic development presentations to business groups, and represents the City in partnerships such as the North Silicon Valley Partnership. In terms of marketing, the Economic Development Specialist coordinates marketing materials with vendors and designers, maintains an automated business database, and responds to inquiries regarding economic data. The role also involves analyzing and preparing monthly budget reports, writing articles for the City Newsletter, and updating the City’s website and social media content. The specialist provides clerical support for the Economic Development Department, including scheduling meetings and processing timecards and invoices. This position is essential for fostering a vibrant business environment in Fremont and requires a proactive approach to economic development.

Responsibilities

• Explains new-business requirements to potential owners and assists in business site selection using automated systems.
• Directs business owners to local, State and Federal resources.
• Assists in the implementation of the City's Small Business Program as well as other community events, surveys, focus groups and educational workshops.
• Publishes the EBiz Newsletter.
• Makes economic development presentations to business groups.
• Represents the City to the North Silicon Valley Partnership.
• Coordinates marketing materials with vendors and designers.
• Maintains an automated business database.
• Responds to inquiries regarding economic data.
• Analyzes and prepares monthly budget reports.
• Writes articles for the City Newsletter, updates website and Facebook content.
• Provides staff support for the Economic Development Commission.
• Coordinates ongoing projects with the Chamber of Commerce.
• Coordinates Business Appreciation Program.
• Provides clerical support for the Economic Development Department including scheduling of meetings, timecard and monthly invoice processing.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university in Urban Planning, Economics, Business Administration, Marketing, Public Relations, Public Administration, or a related field.
• One year of experience in economic or community development, including one year of experience in the public sector and/or in marketing.
• Knowledge of the principles, practices, and issues of economic development including business recruitment, expansion, and retention.
• Skill in public speaking and working with graphics design software.
• Ability to implement elements of an economic development program and interpret complex rules, regulations, laws, and ordinances.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience in public relations techniques and promotional events planning.
• Familiarity with automated information systems and public presentations.
• Proficiency in desktop publishing and printing techniques.