Economic Development Officer

City of Colorado Springs • Colorado Springs, CO

1d • Onsite

About The Position

The City of Colorado Springs is seeking an experienced and visionary leader to serve as our next Economic Development Officer, an at-will position reporting directly to the Chief of Staff. This is a unique opportunity to help shape the City by fostering business investment, supporting industry growth, and strengthening partnerships that create lasting economic prosperity. As the City's chief economic development strategist, you will work at the intersection of public service and private industry, advancing initiatives that support business retention and expansion, attract new investment, develop our workforce, and position Colorado Springs as a premier destination for innovation. The ideal candidate is a collaborative relationship builder with experience navigating complex economic development initiatives, cultivating partnerships, and turning strategic opportunities into measurable results. You understand how strong communities and thriving businesses go hand in hand and are passionate about creating an environment where both can succeed. This position is subject to budget required furloughs to be implemented in the 2026 calendar year. About the City of Colorado Springs Nestled at the base of majestic Pikes Peak – America's Mountain, Colorado Springs is home to more than 506,000 residents and spans 195 square miles of breathtaking landscapes. With more than 240 days of sunshine each year, the City offers an exceptional quality of life while serving as a hub for innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic opportunity. Colorado Springs is home to five military installations, a nationally recognized aerospace and defense industry, a growing cybersecurity ecosystem, world-class healthcare organizations, advanced manufacturing, and Olympic City USA. These strengths, combined with a highly educated workforce and collaborative regional partnerships, continue to make Colorado Springs one of the country's most desirable places to live, work, and invest. Learn more about the City's Strategic Plan and the Economic Development Office.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in a related area of study, such as public administration, business administration, or economics.
• Five or more years of full-time, professional experience in economic development or a closely related field.
• Three or more years of administrator, leadership, and/or supervisory experience.
• One year of relevant work experience may be substituted for one year of required education (OR) one year of relevant academic coursework beyond the minimum requirement may be substituted for one year of required professional experience.
• Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis.

Responsibilities

• Leading citywide economic development strategies that promote business retention, expansion, redevelopment, and investment.
• Building strong relationships with regional economic development organizations, chambers of commerce, educational institutions, and state and federal partners.
• Partnering with the Colorado Springs Airport to coordinate development efforts within Peak Innovation Park, supporting business attraction and investment in targeted industry sectors.
• Supporting the continued growth of Colorado Springs' nationally recognized defense and aerospace industries through strategic engagement with military installations and the Department of Defense community.
• Promoting workforce development initiatives that strengthen the regional talent pipeline and address workforce needs.
• Negotiating and administering economic development agreements while presenting recommendations to City Council.
• Coordinating complex development projects by bringing together City departments and external partners to facilitate successful outcomes.
• Evaluating economic opportunities through data analysis, financial review, and community impact assessments.
• Serving as a trusted advisor on economic development policy, strategic initiatives, and community partnerships.

Benefits

• additional compensation depending on the position, area of assignment, and specific job assignments, including shift differential, pay differential, acting or lead, special assignment, hazard pay, longevity, cell phone allowance, uniform allowance, relocation, awards, standby, call out, compensatory time off, tuition, overtime, extra duty, incentive, holiday premium, proficiency, and vacation sell back.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager