The Town of East Hartford is seeking a professional dedicated to driving community growth by attracting investment, creating jobs, and strengthening the local economy. This role requires a strong blend of analytical, strategic, and interpersonal skills, along with a deep commitment to meaningful community impact.

Working under the general direction of the Director of Development, this position plans, designs, coordinates, and administers initiatives related to the promotion and development of the Town’s economic resources. It also oversees services and programs that support the Town’s economic development goals.

The role includes administrative responsibility for researching, recommending, and implementing procedures that encourage, support, and monitor development projects involving federal, state, and private sector participation.

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement:

The Town of East Hartford proudly stands as an equal opportunity employer, dedicated to fostering a work environment free from discrimination. We firmly uphold the principles of equality, ensuring that all individuals are treated fairly without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. Our commitment to inclusivity and diversity is unwavering, and we enthusiastically encourage applicants from all walks of life to join our team.

Primary Responsibilities

• Plans, directs, and administers economic development activities and programs.
• Actively recruits and negotiates with businesses to encourage their establishment within the Town, and works with existing businesses to support retention, expansion, and problem resolution.
• Develops brochures, promotional materials, and other marketing content for the Town.
• Serves as staff support to the Economic Development Commission and participates in community organizations, including meetings held outside normal business hours or at alternate locations.
• Administers and promotes the Town’s Enterprise Zone programs and oversees additional local, state, and federal incentive initiatives.
• Maintains up-to-date economic development data, including business information and available land and building inventory.
• Prepares correspondence and produces regular narrative and statistical reports for the Director of Development and external agencies.
• Assists public and private organizations in preparing grant applications and contracts necessary to implement federal and state grant programs.

Additional Job Functions

• Provides technical data and research support to Town departments, boards, commissions, and the public as needed.
• Attends meetings, including evening meetings, when required.
• Participates in professional economic development organizations to maintain current knowledge and best practices.
• Conducts site visits to support economic development initiatives.
• Develops and maintains content for the Town of East Hartford website.

Strong Analytical Skills -Ability to interpret economic data, market trends, and demographic information to identify growth opportunities and evaluate program effectiveness.
Strategic Planning Expertise -Skilled in designing and implementing initiatives that support community goals, including business recruitment, workforce development, and grant-funded projects.
Effective Communication and Stakeholder Engagement -Capable of clearly presenting findings, proposals, and updates while working collaboratively with government officials, businesses, nonprofits, and community groups.
Project Management Skills-Experience managing timelines, budgets, and compliance requirements for projects involving local, state, and federal regulations.
Negotiation Ability-Proficient in negotiating with investors, partners, and stakeholders to secure funding, resources, and cooperative agreements.
Technical Assistance and Support -Able to provide guidance to small businesses, entrepreneurs, and community organizations on permitting, funding opportunities, and economic development programs.
Strong Work Ethic and Initiative -Demonstrates reliability, a positive attitude, and the ability to take initiative when working on complex, multi-sector projects.
Knowledge of Economic Trends and Policies -Understanding of public policy, economic development principles, and regulatory frameworks to ensure alignment with broader economic and political environments.
Collaboration and Teamwork -Skilled in working across public and private sectors, coordinating with multiple agencies, and contributing to collaborative initiatives.
Problem-Solving and Adaptability-Able to respond to evolving market conditions and community needs with flexibility, creativity, and effective solutions.

A bachelor’s degree in economics, business, public administration, or a related field is preferred.
Three to five years of experience in industrial or commercial development, or in an economic development organization, is required.
An equivalent combination of education and experience that demonstrates the ability to successfully perform the duties of the position may also be considered.

Town of East Hartford jobs

Economic Development Specialist