Community and Economic Development Specialist at Travis County – Austin, Texas

Job Summary

Under general direction, assists in the implementation of the Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS). Responsible for monitoring compliance for the Chapter 381 Property Tax Rebate Program and the revision and periodic review of the policy to align with the CEDS. Prepares applications, administers and monitors compliance with grant programs related to CEDS programs. Assists in the design and expansion of County community and economic development and business activity. Performs research, advanced review and analysis of multiple projects and/or programs. Works within the department on community engagement efforts.

This position is eligible for telework/hybrid work plan, with in-office work as necessary from a central office location as assigned (700 Lavaca). MUST LIVE IN or NEAR AUSTIN TX AREA.

Distinguishing Characteristics

This job classification falls within the Professional Support job family. This classification requires minimal supervision, exercises independent judgement and initiative, and requires managing complex projects while simultaneously monitoring compliance on multiple levels. It is distinguished by the responsibility for oversight and maintenance of compliance issues for a department in conformity with Federal, State and Local statutes, policies, procedures, and industry standards. This classification may require a flexible work schedule to meet the needs of the department.

• Assists with the drafting, review and revision of policies relating to the Chapter 381 program and other community and economic development programs under development.
• Responsible for grant applications related to federal, state and local programs.
• Performs compliance and administration connected to community and economic development and grant programs.
• Researches new grants and programs that could benefit Travis County residents and provides recommendations.
• Reviews and makes recommendations on assigned community and economic development projects.
• Prepares and presents reports for the Commissioners Court on compliance, grants and community and economic development initiatives.
• Interfaces with the public, stakeholder groups, micro to large businesses, elected and appointed officials, and peer departments in other jurisdictions on community and economic development policies and projects.
• Attends conferences, Chamber of Commerce and school district meetings and events, and other meetings and events as assigned to remain abreast of changes to policy and rules and economic trends that may impact Travis County’s community and economic development work.
• Performs compliance audits of Chapter 381 agreements to ensure compliance with agreement requirements. This includes working closely with the City of Austin’s Economic Development Division compliance staff on similar agreements, the Purchasing Office Contract Compliance Division, the County Attorney’s Office, the Auditor’s Office, and the Budget Office.
• Works collaboratively with County departments on aligned projects.
• Prepares reports to management and Commissioners Court on compliance as well as letters to the companies with whom the county has agreements.
• Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

Education and Experience:

Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Public Affairs/Administration, Social Science, or related field AND three (3) years increasingly responsible experience with community and economic development, compliance monitoring, related grants programs, and other related activities;

OR,

Any combination of education and experience that has been achieved and is equivalent to the stated education and experience and required knowledge, skills, and abilities sufficient to successfully perform the duties and responsibilities of this job.

Licenses, Registrations, Certifications, or Special Requirements:

Valid Texas Driver’s License

Preferred:

Master’s degree in Business, Finance, Public Affairs/Administration, Social Science, or related field.

Grant writing experience.

Economic Development Finance Professional certification.

A resume and cover letter are required to apply for this position.

Knowledge of:

• Community and economic development programs at Federal, State and local levels.
• Local government codes authorizing community and economic development programs for Texas counties.
• Grant writing (including grant budget development), application processes, monitoring and compliance.
• Sources of information, current literature and recent developments related to the job’s duties.
• Administrative and related business principles.
• Community engagement principles.
• Computer equipment to include word processing, spreadsheets, databases, statistical packages, project scheduling and management, presentation/graphics and related software applications.
• Business letter writing, grammar and punctuation, and report preparation.

Skill in:

• Program review and monitoring.
• Strategic, innovative problem solving.
• Research, data collection and insightful analysis for potential programs or projects.
• Problem-solving and technical decision-making for developing effective solutions.
• Analyzing and evaluating data, policies and technical issues.
• Financial analysis and evaluation of business pro formas.
• Budget development, analysis, and tracking.
• Leadership, collaboration and negotiation techniques.
• Excellent verbal and written communication.
• Excellent community engagement skills.

Ability to:

• Coordinate, plan, and prioritize programs, projects and activities.
• Research and recommend projects and programs.
• Apply knowledge to policy and process analysis.
• Reach sound conclusions and make recommendations.
• Manage time well, perform multiple tasks, and organize diverse activities.
• Interpret and explain planning and program objectives to staff, elected and appointed officials, stakeholders, and the general public.
• Compile data and write clear and comprehensive reports.
• Maintain appropriate records.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with departments, representatives of outside agencies, industry groups, contractors, other County employees and officials, and the general public.

Physical requirements include the ability to lift/carry up to 5-20 pounds occasionally, visual acuity, speech and hearing, hand and eye coordination and manual dexterity necessary to operate a computer and office equipment. Subject to standing, sitting, walking, climbing stairs, crawling, bending, stooping, crouching, kneeling, pushing, pulling, reaching, twisting, balancing, occasional indoor/outdoor activities, repetitive motion, client/customer contact, and squatting to perform the essential functions. Some driving may be required for site visits, inspections, and/or community events.

Travis County employees play an important role in business continuity. As such, employees can be assigned to business continuity efforts outside of normal job functions.

Work Hours: Monday - Friday 8 am - 5 pm

Department: PBO

Location: 700 Lavaca St; Suite 1560; Austin TX 78701

Criminal Background Check Required.

This job description is intended to be generic in nature. It is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The essential duties, functions and responsibilities and overtime eligibility may vary based on the specific tasks assigned to the position.