Community and Economic Development Specialist

Travis County•Austin, TX

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

This position is primarily responsible for compliance verification and documentation for the County’s Economic Development Program. The incumbent will be responsible for reviewing documentation submitted by companies to demonstrate compliance with various requirements under their Economic Development Agreements with the company. The position requires excellent documentation, organization, and communication skills. In addition, under general direction, the position assists in the implementation of the Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS). The position also prepares applications, administers and monitors compliance with grant programs related to CEDS programs. Assists in the design and expansion of County community and economic development and business activity. Performs research, advanced review and analysis of multiple projects and/or programs. Works within the department on community engagement efforts. This position is eligible for telework/hybrid work plan, with in-office work as necessary from a central office location as assigned (700 Lavaca). MUST LIVE IN or NEAR AUSTIN TX AREA. Distinguishing Characteristics: This job classification falls within the Professional Support job family. This classification requires minimal supervision, exercises independent judgment and initiative, and requires managing complex projects while simultaneously monitoring compliance on multiple levels. It is distinguished by the responsibility for oversight and maintenance of compliance issues for a department in conformity with Federal, State and Local statutes, policies, procedures, and industry standards. This classification may require a flexible work schedule to meet the needs of the department.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Business, Finance, Public Affairs/Administration, Social Science, or related field AND three (3) years increasingly responsible experience with community and economic development, compliance monitoring, related grants programs, and other related activities.
OR, Any combination of education and experience that has been achieved and is equivalent to the stated education and experience and required knowledge, skills, and abilities sufficient to successfully perform the duties and responsibilities of this job.
Valid Texas Driver's License

Nice To Haves

Compliance experience.
Proficiency in creating and maintaining financial calculations and spreadsheets using Excel.
Experience developing, creating, and maintaining record and file management systems.

Responsibilities

Assists with the drafting, review and revision of policies relating to the Chapter 381 program and other community and economic development programs under development.
Responsible for grant applications related to federal, state and local programs.
Performs compliance and administration connected to community and economic development and grant programs.
Researches new grants and programs that could benefit Travis County residents and provides recommendations.
Reviews and makes recommendations on assigned community and economic development projects.
Prepares and presents reports for the Commissioners Court on compliance, grants and community and economic development initiatives.
Interfaces with the public, stakeholder groups, micro to large businesses, elected and appointed officials, and peer departments in other jurisdictions on community and economic development policies and projects.
Attends conferences, Chamber of Commerce and school district meetings and events, and other meetings and events as assigned to remain abreast of changes to policy and rules and economic trends that may impact Travis County's community and economic development work.
Performs compliance audits of Chapter 381 agreements to ensure compliance with agreement requirements. This includes working closely with the City of Austin's Economic Development Division compliance staff on similar agreements, the Purchasing Office Contract Compliance Division, the County Attorney's Office, the Auditor's Office, and the Budget Office.
Works collaboratively with County departments on aligned projects.
Prepares reports to management and Commissioners Court on compliance as well as letters to the companies with whom the county has agreements.
Performs other job-related duties as assigned.