City of Chula Vista, CA Hiring for Economic Development Specialist I at Chula Vista, CA Full Time

To perform a variety of technical and professional duties and support of the City’s various areas of community development and administration of economic development programs related to community enhancement such as federal grants, Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program, business attraction and retention, and residential and commercial development; to serve as a liaison for assigned projects and programs and respond to questions and inquiries from the public; and to perform related duties as assigned.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

This is the entry-level classification in the Economic Development Specialist series. The Economic Development Specialist I class is distinguished from the II level by the performance of less than the full range of duties assigned to the II level. Incumbent works under immediate supervision while learning job tasks, progressing to general supervision as procedures and processes of assigned area of responsibility are learned.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

Receives immediate supervision from assigned supervisor.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Functions may include, but are not limited to, the following: coordinate with City staff to facilitate project processing and permitting with property owners, developers, and business owners; provide information and assistance to those who contact the Economic Development Department; attend various meetings, make presentations and provide technical assistance regarding economic development programs, issues and projects; assist with a wide variety of research, administrative, and analytical duties in support of the City’s Economic Development functions, operations, and programs; assist with research and studies including economic or financial studies including analysis and identification of trends; identify grant opportunities, apply for grants as directed, and oversee the application process for various programs to provide services and funding for the community; assist in the preparation and upkeep of marketing material and information packets used to promote Chula Vista to companies including economic, statistical, financial, population growth, demographic and other information for dissemination to potential business clients; represent the City to outside business interests and possible investors at various conferences and industry trade shows; meet with business owners and/or representatives interested in locating or expanding in the city; assist in the research and analysis of information regarding community enhancement and economic development projects; research specific trade and investment needs for clients, staff, and partners; interpret legislation and assist in preparing economic impact studies, financial analysis and/or housing studies; assist with the development of programs for the revitalization of the City’s commercial and industrial areas; assist with implementation and monitoring of various economic development programs according to program guidelines; perform technical analysis and interpretation of pertinent economic, demographic and physical data as it relates to economic revitalization; assist businesses in their dealings with other City departments; build and maintain positive working relationships with co-workers, other City employees and the public using principles of good customer service; perform other related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:
Any combination of experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be training equivalent to a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in Urban Studies, Economics, Business Administration, Public Administration or a related field. License or Certificate: Possession of a valid California driver’s license.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities / Physical Demands and Working Conditions:

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Knowledge of: methods and techniques of research, statistical analysis, and report preparation; urban planning and community enhancement policies, practices and techniques; basic principles of real estate development and land use; basic principles and practices of project management; pertinent federal, state, and local laws, policies, codes, and regulations related to area of assignment; superior ability in oral and written communication skills; computer equipment and software applications related to assignment; principles and practices of customer service; general regulations and requirements governing economic development programs utilizing the use of state and federal loans and CDBG funds; basic economic development strategies, practices and techniques; general marketing concepts and principles. Ability to: learn to analyze policy issues, research and compile technical and statistical information, make recommendations and prepare reports; learn and apply applicable laws, policies, rules and regulations; prioritize and coordinate several work activities and follow up as required; research, organize, and maintain accurate office files; plan and organize work to meet changing priorities and deadlines; use initiative and sound independent judgment within established guidelines; operate standard computer and office equipment related to assignment; communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing; communicate effectively with the public, outside agencies, business community and City Council; establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work; work with various cultural and ethnic groups in a tactful and effective manner.

Physical Demands and Working Conditions

On a continuous basis, sit at desk for long periods of time. Intermittently twist and reach office equipment; use telephone, write or use keyboard to communicate through written means; may lift light weight. See in the normal vision range with or without correction to read typical business documents and computer screens; hear in the normal range with or without correction. Some of the work is performed indoors in a carpeted and air-conditioned office environment with fluorescent lighting and moderate noise level. There is exposure to outside atmospheric conditions, traffic, noise, physical barriers, or around potentially hazardous construction conditions, substances and material when conducting field visits. Work is frequently disrupted by the need to respond to in-person and telephone inquiries.

Additional Information:
Recruitment No. 21274708

To be considered, applicants must submit an online City Application with Supplemental Questionnaire by 5:00 p.m. on the closing date listed. Candidates whose applications indicate education and experience most directly related to the position will be invited to participate in the selection process.

Unless otherwise noted, a passing score must be achieved at each step of the selection process in order to have your name placed on the eligibility list for hiring consideration. Note that the examination materials for this recruitment are validated, copyrighted and/or inappropriate for review. The eligibility lists established as a result of this recruitment will be for a duration of six (6) months, unless otherwise extended. All notices will be sent via e-mail.