Job Description

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST

City of Mt. Vernon, Missouri

DESCRIPTION OF WORK

Under the direction of the City Administrator, this position collaborates with a wide range of partners including community and business leaders, city and county officials, financial institutions, the Chamber of Commerce, regional economic development organizations, and state partners to attract new industry, support business growth, and enhance the overall business climate and quality of life in Mt. Vernon.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develop and support entrepreneurship, business incubation, and small business development initiatives.
• Partner with local school districts, colleges, and community stakeholders to promote entrepreneurship education and strengthen the local entrepreneurial ecosystem.
• Foster a business climate that supports the retention and expansion of existing businesses.
• Assist in the development of workforce initiatives that improve both the quality and availability of the local labor force.
• Lead and support targeted business recruitment efforts, including site selection assistance and coordination with prospective employers.
• Collaborate with local, regional, and state officials, including agencies such as the Missouri Department of Economic Development.
• Research, write, and administer grants; ensure compliance with reporting requirements.
• Prepare applications and supporting documentation for Missouri economic development incentive programs (e.g., tax credits, workforce training programs, business financing tools, Chapter 100 Bonds, Community Improvement Districts, Transportation Development Districts, etc.).
• Utilize market research and digital marketing tools to promote Mt. Vernon as a competitive location for investment.
• Representing the City on community committees, boards, and professional organizations as assigned.
• Maintain, analyze, and present economic and demographic data to support decision-making and marketing efforts.
• Advocate for local business interests at the local, regional, and state levels.
• Support rural economic development initiatives, including tourism development and agritourism opportunities.
• Assist in implementing quality-of-life initiatives that enhance community attractiveness for residents, businesses, and workforce recruitment.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Strong oral and written communication skills with the ability to effectively engage diverse audiences.
• Proficiency in computer applications, including Microsoft Office and data management systems.
• Demonstrated negotiation skills and the ability to build consensus among stakeholders.
• Ability to develop and implement strategic and long-range plans.
• Capacity to leverage partnerships, funding sources, and community resources.
• Strong relationship-building skills with public and private sector partners.
• Working knowledge of local, state, and federal economic development programs and funding opportunities.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING

• Bachelor’s degree in business, economics, marketing, finance, urban/regional planning, public administration, or a related field required.
• Minimum of two (2) years of experience in economic development, community development, planning, or a related field, preferably with a focus on entrepreneurship and small business development preferred.
• Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

• Residency within a reasonable distance of Mt. Vernon, Missouri, is preferred, with the expectation of establishing strong community engagement.
• Valid Missouri driver’s license with an acceptable driving record required.
• Ability to attend evening and weekend meetings, events, and community functions as needed.
• Perform any other duties that are assigned by the City Administrator.

Interested individuals may send a resume to the Mount Vernon City Clerk’s Office at P.O. Box 70, 109 North Hickory Street, Mount Vernon, MO 65712. Resumes may be also emailed to administrator@mtvernon-cityhall.org. Applications are available on the City’s website at Questions regarding this position should be directed to the Robert Harrington, City of Mount Vernon City Administrator at 417-466-2122 or administrator@mtvernon-cityhall.org. The City of Mount Vernon is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $50,000.00 - $60,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Experience:

• verifiable: 5 years (Required)

License/Certification:

• Class B Commercial (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

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