Economic Development Specialist

Job Description

Job Description

If you're passionate about helping businesses grow and making a positive impact in a local County, we'd love to hear from you!

Economic Development Specialist needed ASAP! 

Onsite in Mechanicsburg
Salary: $50,000–$55,000/year, commensurate with experience
Temp-to-Hire

Schedule: Full-Time

Temp-to-Hire

Reports To: Economic Development Manager/Executive Director

Position Overview

We are seeking an Economic Development Specialist 1 to join our team and support economic development initiatives throughout Cumberland County. This entry-level position provides an opportunity to work directly with businesses, entrepreneurs, lenders, developers, and community partners.

The Specialist will assist with economic development loan administration, business outreach, business retention and expansion, site selection, and connecting local businesses with resources that support their growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and maintain a portfolio of approximately 36–60 active loans
• Review loan applications for completeness and accuracy and provide recommendations for approval
• Assist applicants, lenders, and program partners with economic development questions and technical assistance
• Communicate professionally with applicants and business representatives by phone, email, and written correspondence
• Maintain accurate project information in web-based tracking systems and CRM databases
• Review disbursement requests and perform desk audits
• Work with attorneys and other partners on loan closings
• Develop relationships with business owners, bankers, real estate professionals, developers, and business advisors
• Assist with business retention, expansion, and attraction projects
• Conduct business outreach, prospecting, cold calling, and partner-referral follow-up
• Respond to leads and requests for information (RFIs)
• Assist with prospect site visits and economic development projects
• Help create print and digital marketing materials for businesses, stakeholders, and site selectors
• Prepare monthly, quarterly, annual, and other program reports
• Assist with annual compliance reporting
• Represent the organization at public meetings, networking opportunities, and community events
• Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications & Skills

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited four-year college or university OR two years of related experience and/or training, or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• Strong critical-thinking and problem-solving skills
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills
• Strong attention to detail, accuracy, and follow-through
• Excellent time-management and organizational skills
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team
• Willingness to learn and participate in training
• Ability to maintain confidentiality
• Reliable transportation
• Ability to attend occasional evening functions
• A genuine interest in and passion for a loca County and its business community

What We're Looking For

The ideal candidate is professional, organized, personable, detail-oriented, and eager to learn. This is an excellent opportunity for someone interested in economic development, banking/lending, business development, real estate, government, or community development.