Economic Development Specialist

Economic Development Specialist This position performs a variety of administrative and professional work for the Economic & Community Development Department in advancing Westbrook’s economic vitality. The Specialist plays a key role in supporting business development, investment strategies, and community growth initiatives through research, coordination, outreach, and program administration. The City of Westbrook is committed to fostering a professional, respectful, and welcoming workplace. We encourage all qualified individuals to apply and ensure that hiring decisions are based on experience, skills, and the needs of the role. We also welcome applications from women, people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, people with disabilities, members of ethnic minorities, foreign‑born residents, and veterans. Our goal is to create an environment where every employee can contribute meaningfully and feel supported in their role. Key Responsibilities Performs a full range of complex administrative duties for the department including preparing and presenting staff reports and other necessary correspondence and documents. Coordinates both on‑site and off‑site meetings with developers, businesses, and community partners. Maintains and updates the business database and electronic filing system for the department. Administers and maintains the City’s Facade Improvement Program and other economic development programs as assigned. Researches grant and other funding opportunities, including drafting applications and preparing required reports under the direction of the Director and the Administration. Assists with business recruitment, retention, and expansion efforts. Engages with existing and prospective businesses through site visits, phone calls, and/or emails. Maintains a high level of confidentiality regarding sensitive business inquiries and development projects. Performs other related duties and projects as assigned. Education and Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Planning, Economics, Business Administration, or a related field preferred. Two (2) years of experience in economic development, community development, planning, or a related field preferred. Any equivalent combination of education and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the primary duties and responsibilities may be considered. For further details, the full job description is available here (PDF). Compensation and Benefits Competitive salary range of $70,802.34 – $83,401.54/year based on experience. This position is full‑time, non‑union, exempt. A comprehensive benefits package includes medical (PPO plan at 12% premium cost, plus HRA reimbursement), dental, vision, life insurance (one times base salary), short and long‑term disability, and employee assistance program. Generous paid leave including vacation, sick, and 13 holidays per year. Tuition reimbursement for job‑related courses. Retirement program of the Maine Public Employees Retirement Plan (Maine PERS) or defined 457 with matching up to 6%. Application Process Whether you have found us through our jobs page, Indeed, the Maine Municipal Association (MMA), Facebook, or other platforms, you can apply online, via email, or in‑person. Be sure to include all necessary information, including the position applied for, salary requirement, experience, education, qualifications, and certifications. Interested applicants should send their resume and letter of interest to the Human Resources Department at View email address on click.appcast.io. In‑person applications at 2 York Street, Westbrook, ME. Applicants who are not currently based in Maine should include a brief statement addressing their plans and readiness to relocate, including timing and reason for interest in the region. Applicants selected as finalists for this position will be subject to a comprehensive reference and background check. The City of Westbrook is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination or harassment of any kind. We recruit, employ, train, compensate, and promote without regard to race, religion, creed, color, national origin, age, gender, gender identity, and/or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, veteran status, or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. About the City of Westbrook The City of Westbrook was a traditional mill city that has grown and diversified significantly over the last two decades to become a residential hub and business center for the region. Westbrook has a population of over 20,000 and covers 17.36 square miles. Westbrook is centrally located to both urban and rural amenities. Currently, the City employs approximately 195 full‑time and 80 variable‑hour employees, covered by five different Collective Bargaining Agreements. The departments contained within the City are the Mayor’s Office, Economic Development, City Clerk, Finance, Human Resources, Planning, Code Enforcement, & Assessing, Public Services, Community Services, General Assistance, Library, Police, Fire & Rescue, and Dispatch. Economic Development Westbrook is recognized as a business‑friendly community. The Economic Development (ED) department assists businesses in finding optimal locations to relocate, expand, or start new ventures. It provides business retention services, including facilitating connections to resources, offering guidance through permit processes, and supporting the development of key infrastructure. ED also works on attracting new businesses, grants, and investments to help grow the local economy. The department collaborates closely with state and federal agencies, the private sector, and other City departments to promote Westbrook as a desirable location for investment. The department is staffed by three full‑time employees. #J-18808-Ljbffr