Project Manager (Economic Development)

Project Manager

The City of Pasadena's Economic Development Division under the City Manager's Office is seeking an experienced and strategic Project Manager to join our World Class City and support a range of economic development initiatives. The Project manager plans, coordinates, and implements development projects that support business growth, advance development activity and help strengthen the City's economic base. The Project Manager works collaboratively with including but not limited to: internal departments, property owners, commercial real-estate developers, local institutions, businesses and business districts to move projects forward, navigate City processes, and support business attraction, retention, and expansion. The ideal candidate is a proactive and highly organized professional who can manage complex projects while navigating ambiguity and competing priorities. The role requires strong judgment, initiative and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively across departments and with external partners. The successful candidate will have strong oral and written communications skills, is comfortable working directly with businesses, property owners, and brokers, and will be able to translate City processes into clear, actionable guidance. Experience with data tracking, market analysis, and business development initiatives is highly desirable.

Essential Functions

• Directs and monitors activities such as economic development within assigned project areas; reviews contracts and progress reports; maintains appropriate documentation.
• Coordinates projects with a variety of staff, departments and organizations; collaborates across departments including Planning, Water and Power and others to support timely project implementation.
• Coordinates and supports public-private development efforts; establishes goals, objectives, budgets, and schedules consistent with departmental plans and policies.
• Secures technical or professional services and maintains effective community participation and collaboration on assigned projects.
• Prepares and presents reports to City Council, boards, commissions, and committees. Identifies and develops funding opportunities, partnerships, and program resources to support economic development initiatives.
• Tracks and analyzes retail and commercial real estate data, business activity, and market trends; maintains data systems to support outreach, reporting, and strategy development.
• Designs and delivers programs and services to attract, retain and expand businesses; attracts new businesses in target industry clusters and growth sectors such as deep tech.
• Builds and maintains relationships with property owners, brokers, developers, and business operators; coordinates outreach and facilitates business expansion opportunities.
• Advises and recommends execution of actions on all aspects of assigned projects; remains current on applicable State legislation/policies, development, planning and economic development trends.
• Acts as business concierge; provides guidance on startup, licensing, permitting, incentives and more; liaises with City departments as needed to assist businesses.
• Implements and supports initiatives identified in the Economic Development Strategic Plan and related work programs, including building systems and partnerships, investing in neighborhoods and small businesses, and cultivating a deep tech ecosystem.

Qualification Guidelines

COMPETENCIES The following list represents the core competencies needed for success in this position.

• Action & Results Focus - Initiating tasks and focusing on accomplishment.
• Self-Management - Showing personal organization, self-discipline, and dependability.
• Presentation Skills - Formally delivering information to groups.
• Writing - Communicating effectively in writing.
• Relationship Building - Establishing rapport and maintaining mutually productive relationships.
• Project Management - Ensuring that projects are on-time, on-budget, and achieve their objectives.
• Critical Thinking - Analytically and logically evaluating information, propositions, and claims.

• Bachelor's degree in economic development, redevelopment, real estate development, or urban planning, business or public administration, economics, or related field.
• Four years of progressively responsible experience in economic development, redevelopment, real estate development, or urban planning, including two years in a lead analytical, managerial, or supervisory role.
• Individuals with public sector project management experience will be deemed most qualified.

The selection process may consist of a training and experience evaluation, interview panel, and/or department-level interviews. Candidates may be required to complete a brief soft-skills assessment during the selection process. The candidate assessment provides insight into core interpersonal skills, behavioral traits, and preferred work environment - helping us support your success in the role.

There is currently one vacancy in the Economic Development Division of the City Manager's Office. The resulting eligibility list from this recruitment may be used to fill this vacancy and similar vacancies in the future. Candidates selected for this position are subject to a one year probationary work period.

Special Requirements

Must have or obtain a Class C California driver's license and a satisfactory driving record.