Economic Development Director

CITY OF LAKE WALESLake Wales, FL
$81,037 - $152,360Onsite

About The Position

Performs a variety of routine and complex administrative, technical and professional work in the preparation and implementation of economic development plans, programs and services. The role involves working under the general supervision of the City Manager and exercising supervision over administrative staff as assigned. Key responsibilities include assisting in the development of economic development plans, gathering and interpreting data, coordinating with other departments and agencies, and maintaining liaison activities with various business and community organizations. The position requires the ability to analyze technical and financial documents, respond to inquiries, write effectively, and present information to management and public groups. A significant part of the role involves developing and maintaining an inventory of available buildings and sites, and providing information on utilities, taxes, zoning, and transportation. The Director will also respond to citizen inquiries, prepare studies and reports, conduct research, monitor legislation, and prepare promotional materials. Serving on economic development task forces and administering grant applications are also key duties. The role requires knowledge of word processing, spreadsheet, and database software. Peripheral duties include serving on committees, attending professional development workshops, and assisting other staff members.

Requirements

  • A Bachelors degree in urban planning, business or public administration, economics, marketing, finance, or a related field, and experience in business, industrial or community development and real estate which includes the design, negotiation and/or implementation of business assistance programs and real estate contracts; or Any equivalent combination of education and experience, additional education substituting on a year for year basis for the required experience.
  • Considerable knowledge of business development.
  • Considerable knowledge of economic development.
  • Working knowledge of municipal zoning and infrastructure.
  • Working knowledge of planning programs and processes.
  • Ability to analyze and communicate effectively orally and in writing with industrialists, architects, contractors, developers, owners, supervisors, employees, and the general public.
  • Ability to establish effective working relationships.
  • Valid Florida Driver’s License, or ability to obtain one.

Nice To Haves

  • Certified Economic Developer (CEcD), or the ability to obtain within six months of employment.

Responsibilities

  • Assist in developing short and long range economic development plans.
  • Gather, interpret, and prepare data for studies, reports and recommendations.
  • Coordinate activities with other departments and agencies.
  • Maintain liaison activities with individuals, groups, and various business and community organizations.
  • Develop and maintain a comprehensive inventory of available buildings and sites in the community for economic development purposes.
  • Prepare and maintain information on utilities, taxes, zoning, transportation, community services, etc.
  • Respond to requests for information for economic development purposes.
  • Prepare data sheets and other information.
  • Respond to local citizens inquiring about local economic development activities and opportunities.
  • Prepare a variety of studies, reports and related information for decision-making purposes.
  • Conduct technical research studies and prepare statistical reports and recommendations.
  • Monitor local, state and Federal legislation and regulations relating to economic development, and report findings, trends and recommendations to supervisor.
  • Prepare graphics, charts, tables, promotional materials, etc. for economic development activities.
  • Serve when assigned as a member of an economic development task force.
  • Prepare, write and administer grant applications related to economic development.
  • Coordinate and manage professional service contracts, as assigned.
  • Serve as a member of various staff committees as assigned.
  • Attend professional development workshops and conferences.
  • Assist other staff members as needed.

Benefits

  • Salary Range: $81,036.80 - $152,360.00 Salary/year
© 2026 Teal Labs, Inc
Privacy PolicyTerms of Service