Community Development Specialist

Do you enjoy connecting with people and bringing bold ideas to life? If you're ready to take on exciting challenges and make a meaningful impact, we want YOU to join our team as a Community Development Specialist!

The Community Development Specialist is responsible for planning, organizing, and implementing programs and projects that support Community Development with a strong focus on economic development. This role involves working closely with other City employees/departments, community members, local businesses, local economic development organizations, state agencies, commercial property owners, contractors and other stakeholders to enhance the economic vitality of the community.

We are an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer committed to promoting a multicultural work force, excellence in public service, and on-going mutual respect in our working relationships. We strongly encourage people of color, people with disabilities, LGBTQ+ individuals, bilingualists, and people from other underrepresented groups to apply for our open positions - recognizing and respecting that diverse perspectives and experiences are valuable to our team and essential to our public service. 

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Administration and oversight of projects funded by Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), particularly with revolving loan funds and technical assistance grants, and additional economic development grants that may be awarded to the City; includes in-take of financing applications, development of underwriting documentation and evaluation of business, presentation of loan/grant applications to Pittsfield Economic Revitalization Corporation (PERC).
• Provides administrative support to PERC to carry out economic development projects for the City including but not limited to: small business grants and lending program administration, (planning and implementation of industrial park annual leases and development projects and small business consulting and educational programing. Supports PERC committees, including the Executive Committee, Board of Directors and subcommittees; schedule PERC Finance Committee and Board of Directors meeting and prepares packages for meetings.
• Serves as first point of contact to public, entrepreneurs, startup businesses or those small business owners looking to expand and are seeking small business resources.
• Review of grant and loan applications, assist with loan servicing and set-up.  Performs credit checks, write analysis, commitment letters communication between PERC and applicants, prepare loan documents and loan collections.
• Works closely with PERC Auditors on yearly audits and filing of taxes.
• Completes any required annual reporting. 
• Maintenance of economic development financing programs including but not limited to: CDBG, Economic Development Incentive Program, Massachusetts Growth Capital Corporation Technical Assistance Grants, Pittsfield Small Business Fund, Pittsfield Economic Development Fund.
• Administration of economic development incentive programs, including work with project proponents and state officials.
• Grant writing and administration of funds, as needed.
• Liaison to economic development entities and other organizations working with the small business community.
• On-site project administration and assistance to proponents of development projects and/or business start-up or expansion projects.
• Assistance with special projects pertaining to community and economic development, as needed.
• Procurement of professional services in cooperation with the Purchasing Office; Project-related budget preparation. Demolition of vacant buildings, and various accessibility projects.
• Serves as a member of the Pittsfield Commission on Disabilities.
• Performs other related duties as needed and/or required.

QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma or equivalent, bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in business administration, economics, urban planning or public administration is preferred. 
• Minimum of three (3) years’ experience in community development, planning, or public policy and administration with direct involvement in the administration of community and/or economic development projects 
• A combination of relevant education and experience may be considered. 
• Demonstrated program or project administration experience
• Knowledge of practices and procedures in administration of publicly funded projects 
• Exemplary interpersonal skills; ability to communicate well orally and in writing 
• Proficient skill in the use of computers and technology, including software programs such as Microsoft Word, Excel and Power Point
• Ability to maintain discretion and confidentiality, as incumbent is exposed to sensitive information such as credit reports, financial statements, profit and loss statements, personal and business taxes, etc.

WORKING CONDITIONS (The characteristics described here are representative of those that the employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations are considered to ensure individuals with disabilities can perform essential functions.)

This is an office-based job in a dynamic municipal building. While performing the duties of the Community Development Specialist, the incumbent is required to: interact and communicate frequently with the public, government officials, other staff members and boards, and/or third parties transacting business with the City. Work may occasionally take place off-site to attend meetings and/or visit project locations.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS (The physical demands listed here are representative of those that must be met by the employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations are considered to ensure individuals with disabilities can perform essential functions.)

Operates standard office equipment including computers and keyboards, at efficient speed; and move throughout the municipal building which may include flights of stairs. Lifts/moves objects weighing up to 10-20 pounds.

HOURS

Monday – Friday, 35 hours per week, 8:30am – 4:00pm 

SALARY RANGE

Starting rate $27.03 - $28.54 per hour

Annual increases up to $37.43 per hour

APPLICATION DEADLINE: 

Thursday, October 31, 2024 at 4:00PM or until position is filled

Company Description

Nestled in the heart of the Berkshires, the City of Pittsfield is a vibrant and welcoming community that blends rich history with a forward-thinking outlook. As the cultural and economic hub of the region, Pittsfield offers a dynamic environment where innovation and tradition coexist harmoniously. Our city government is committed to fostering a high quality of life for all residents by delivering essential services, promoting sustainable growth, and championing a diverse and inclusive community.

Working for the City of Pittsfield means being part of a team dedicated to public service and making a real difference in the lives of our citizens. We pride ourselves on our collaborative approach, where employees are encouraged to contribute ideas and take initiative. Whether it’s enhancing public safety, improving infrastructure, or supporting our vibrant arts scene, every role within our organization plays a vital part in shaping the future of our city.

We are an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer committed to promoting a multicultural work force, excellence in public service, and on-going mutual respect in our working relationships. Minorities are encouraged to apply. We strongly encourage people of color, people with disabilities, LGBTQ+ community, and people from other underrepresented groups to apply for our open positions - recognizing and respecting that diverse perspectives and experiences are valuable to our team and essential to our public service.

Join us in our mission to build a stronger, more connected Pittsfield, where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Benefits

• Health Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Retirement Savings Plan
• Up to 14 paid Holidays
• Personal Days
• Vacation Time
• Earned Sick Leave
• Employee Assistance Program
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Wellness programming for employee and family
• Incentives for bilingual individuals