This position is responsible for supporting community and economic development planning activities throughout the Township of Lower Merion. The position requires an understanding of the Township’s municipal planning process, while focusing on supporting the economic development and placemaking of the Township’s commercial areas. Responsibilities include developing and implementing policies and programs to support the Township’s economic development goals, acting as a liaison with local business organizations and undertaking special assignments within the Planning Division.

Works under the general supervision of the Assistant Director of Planning.Supports community and economic development planning activities.

Implements business enhancement programs for commercial districts, prepares financial analyses and submits and manages applications for funding available for public improvements on projects related to retail/commercial development.

Conducts research and data analysis in connection with grants and special projects relating to economic development and placemaking.

Collaborates with Township departments, Business Improvement Districts and developers/property owners.

Maintains a current database/inventory for commercial areas in the Township as well as other pertinent economic and business data.

Assists in the development and implementation of commercial district master plans and enhancement strategies.

Develops a variety of Township-sponsored programs designed to enhance the Township's commercial districts.

Acts as a liaison to the Business Improvement Districts and other business associations, such as the Main Line Chamber of Commerce, retail or commercial district authorities and other groups which are involved in enhancing the Township.

Assists in preparing grants, administering and monitoring grant funds and other sources of funding that may be available for public improvements on projects related to retail/commercial development.

Assists in preparing, administering and monitoring Request for Proposals, financial analyses and other reports as required.

Supports business associations, facilitates a cooperative climate between business interests and local officials, and encourages activities such as promotional events, advertising, store hours, special events, business recruitment, parking management, etc.

Provides technical assistance to advisory committees, ad-hoc or other public engagement opportunities.

Delivers public presentations regarding Township economic development activities.

Responds to inquiries, questions and comments regarding economic development per established standards and protocols; responds to and resolves difficult and sensitive inquiries, issues and complaints.

Upholds strict confidentiality in dealing with sensitive information, including legal documents, financial data, contracts, and other proprietary information.

May be required to attend evening or weekend meetings and events based on organizational responsibilities and requirements.

Attends and participates in professional group meetings; stays current on new trends and best practices.

Performs duties of lower-level classifications, as necessary.

May be assigned to other departments or divisions to perform required duties, as needed.
A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in urban planning, community and economic development, business administration or related field and a minimum of five (5) years relevant field experience; or a master’s degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in urban planning, community and economic development, business administration or related field and a minimum of three (3) years of relevant field experience.

Progressively responsible experience in downtown management or economic development.

Designated member of Pennsylvania Downtown Center preferred. Candidates who are not designated members will be required to obtain membership within 6 months of hire.

Comprehensive knowledge of the fundamentals of economic development programs and the principles and practices of public and business administration.

Good understanding of municipal land use planning (subdivision, land development, zoning), community and economic development principles.

Experience working with a broad range of governmental agencies (state, county, regional, local) and private businesses in the advancement of economic development policies and programs.

Knowledge and experience with urban planning and placemaking principles.

Proficiency in the collection, interpretation and communication of economic development data.

Grant writing and grant administration experience.

Ability to prepare and present comprehensive financial and administrative reports.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, public officials, businesses, citizen groups and the general public.

Ability to work cooperatively as a member of a service-oriented team.

Skill in adapting to a changing work environment and competing demands.

Ability to manage multiple priorities to ensure that deadlines are met and to set priorities that move projects through efficiently to achieve customer and quality objectives.

Ability to use critical thinking skills, exercise initiative and independent judgement.

Considerable ability to communicate and present ideas clearly and concisely, both verbally and in writing.

Skill in the use of Microsoft 365 applications (Word, Outlook, and Excel) and its tools for communication and collaboration, such as Teams and OneDrive, applicable department tools, and ability to learn and become proficient in the use of specialized software as required.

Ability to handle difficult and stressful situations with professional composure, diffuse potentially confrontational situations and resolve disputes.

Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.
Ability to sit for a minimum of 5 up to 8 hours, stand for a minimum of 1 up to 3 hours and walk or drive for a minimum of 1 up to 2 hours.

Ability to bend/stoop and squat, reach above shoulder level, crouch, lift, and/or push or pull 1% to 35% of the workday for general office procedures.

Ability to lift and carry up to 24 pounds of files and office equipment up to 35% of the workday.

Ability to lift up to 34 pounds of equipment up to 35% of the workday.

Ability to use both hands for simple grasping, fine manipulation and repetitive movements.

Ability to drive an automobile.

Lower Merion Township

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Economic Development Specialist