Description
The principal function of an employee in this class is to grow the economic base and vitality of the City of Caldwell and the Caldwell Executive Airport; works closely with the city and community partners to develop tools and strategies to serve, attract, and retain a varied commercial base and sustainable employment opportunities. This individual must be able to work independently, strategically, and with great individual initiative. The work is performed under the general direction and supervision of the community development director, but extensive leeway is granted for the exercise of independent judgment and initiative. This is an appointed position. Supervision is exercised over all departmental personnel. The principal duties of this class are performed in both indoor and outdoor environments.
***Start date for this position is approximately 03/01/2026, this position is exempt. ***
Responsibilities
- Develops, implements, markets and monitors campaign efforts to attract investors and organizations.
- Develops goals, sets timelines and milestones, and meets deliverables.
- Plans, directs, organizes, and serves as the main point of contact for the city's economic development activities.
- Proposes strategies to achieve goals and objectives for economic development and marketing of the city and the Caldwell Industrial Airport.
- Serves as the main point of contact for the Economic Development department, providing assistance, advise, and answering questions.
- Monitors local, state and federal legislation affecting economic development.
- Prepares, develops, and maintains strategic database resources on taxes, utilities, zoning, community services, financing tools, transportation, etc.
- Engages with city departments, divisions, and outside agencies.
- Negotiates and resolves sensitive and controversial issues.
- Communicates to the Idaho Department of Commerce and Labor, Idaho Economic Development Authority (IEDA), and other agencies and associations to generate prospects, build relationships, and raise awareness of recent market developments.
- Responds to requests for economic development information.
- Reviews and completes incoming applications from businesses and submits completed applications for approval.
- Explains economic development tools, such as industrial revenue bonding, STAR Urban Renewal, Foreign Trade Zone, New Market Tax Credits, SBA 504 program, and other means as allowed by law to interested parties.
- Keeps abreast of information that may impact program goals and objectives and initiates appropriate strategies and policy change recommendations.
- Prepares cost comparisons spreadsheets, various business reports, and Return on Investment (ROI) documents.
- Researches and provides information on state utility rates, labor costs, fringe benefits, tax rates, workers' compensation, transportation costs, land use, capital formation resources, workforce training programs, and other incentives.
- Coordinates with state, federal, and regional sources to assist in business expansion and entrepreneurial development.
- Collects, analyzes, and compiles economic, market, and demographic data for dissemination.
- Provides site location information to businesses interested in locating in Caldwell; and, coordinates inquires with economic development professionals and the Chamber of Commerce.
- Prepares and manages an annual budget for the Economic Development department.
- Assists in monitoring and updating expenditures and budget adjustments.
- Prepares and submits reports and correspondence to the mayor’s office on the progress of major projects, goals, and objectives.
- Generates favorable print and media coverage, raising awareness for the city as a desirable place for business.
- Monitors progress of projects through reports and frequent contact with business representatives.
- Creates, analyzes, produces, and implements marketing materials and concepts which detail economic development opportunities in Caldwell and the Caldwell Executive Airport.
- Works with Canyon County and other state and federal entities on incentives for qualifying companies.
- Attends approved meetings, conferences, workshops, training sessions, and remains current on the principles, practices, and developments in assigned work areas.
- Consistently keeps supervisor and relevant team members informed about work progress, current and potential issues, and proactively suggests new or improved solutions to address challenges.
- Responds to questions and comments in a courteous and timely manner.
- Communicates and coordinates regularly with others to maximize the effectiveness and efficiency of interdepartmental operations and activities.
- Respects the opinions of others and maintains a positive and professional working relationship with colleagues, supervisors and stakeholders.
- Adapts to changes in work assignments and methods promptly and efficiently.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
Education, Training, and Experience Required:
- Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor’s degree in economic development, business administration, public administration, marketing, economics, planning, communications, or closely related field; and
- Ten (10) years of progressively professional-level experience in senior-level economic activities in a public sector agency; and, executive-level experience with a governmental entity performing related recruitment and retention of business interests; or
- Any equivalent combination of education, experience and training which provides the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary to perform the work.
- Supervisory experience.
Licenses, Certifications, and other Requirements:
- Possession of a current and valid driver's license.
- Subject to a pre-employment background test and drug test to include prescription medications.
- Travel is occasionally required.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Master’s Degree in economic development, business administration, public administration, marketing, economics, planning, communications, or a closely related field.
- Graduation for OU EDI or certified economic developer (CEcD).