Economic Development Specialist

Job no:
Work type: Full Time
Location: Williamsburg
Categories: Professional

Job Summary

$64,066 - $100,292/ year, DOQ + Full-Time County Benefits

The Economic Development Specialist performs professional, administrative, and programmatic work supporting James City County's economic development efforts with a focus on maintaining communications with the local business community, supporting business
retention, expansion, and attraction efforts, and assisting with business assistance programs. The position works closely with the Director and Assistant Director of Economic Development and serves as a point of contact for local business owners, commercial real estate professionals, regional and State economic development partners, and other County departments. This position also provides staff support to the Economic Development Authority, helping facilitate Board operations, planning and executing special projects and events.
Additional responsibilities include conducting research and data analysis to support economic development strategies, preparing presentations, reports, and promotional materials, and responding to inquiries from prospective and existing businesses.

Core Responsibilities

Business Retention and Support:
• Supports business retention and expansion efforts through outreach and ongoing communication with existing businesses.
• Maintains current business resource information on the County website and assists businesses in identifying available resources and technical assistance.
• Serves as a liaison between businesses and County departments.
• Identifies business needs and trends and assists with developing programs and resources responsive to the local business environment.
• Maintains business information and databases.

Business Attraction and Research:
• Supports business attraction efforts by responding to business needs and requests for information.
• Conducts research and analyzes business, economic, and other relevant information to identify trends and support economic
development programs, initiatives, and strategies.
• Prepares presentations, reports, findings, recommendations, and other materials.

Marketing and Community Engagement:
• Prepares marketing materials, public information, reports, and other communications supporting economic development initiatives.
• Supports website and digital content, including business information and economic development resources.
• Supports social media and other communication efforts.
• Communicates with businesses, regional and community partners, County staff, and other stakeholders.

Programs, Events and Partnerships:
• Assists with planning, organizing, and implementing economic development programs and special events.
• Supports business outreach, recognition, announcements, and other economic development activities.
• Participates in meetings, events, and initiatives with economic development and community partners.
• Collaborates with internal and external partners to support departmental programs and objectives.

Administrative and Operational Support:
• Supports departmental operations by maintaining records, responding to business and public inquiries, coordinating information, and preparing meeting materials and documentation.
• Organizes and manages multiple priorities and independently identifies and completes tasks within assigned areas of responsibility.
• Supports departmental economic development strategies, programs, and initiatives.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:
• Bachelor's degree in a related field and three years of relevant experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Knowledge of principles and practices related to economic development, redevelopment, public administration, and business operations.
• Skill in conducting research and analyzing information.
• Skill in organizing work and managing multiple priorities.
• Other requirements.
• Ability to identify and independently carry out tasks within assigned areas of responsibility.
• Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing and prepare reports, presentations, and other materials.
• Ability to collaborate effectively and work as part of a team.
• Ability to provide excellent customer service and establish effective working relationships with businesses, community partners, the public, and employees.
• Familiarity with social media platforms and web-based content.
• Possess a valid Virginia driver's license and have an acceptable driving record based on James City County's criteria.
• Skill in use of computer software, especially Microsoft Office Suite; and public relations, marketing, or promotions.

Click here for full job description. Accepting applications until position is filled. Cover letters and resumes may also be attached, but a fully completed application is required for your application to be considered.

Advertised: 21 Aug 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close: 04 Sep 2026 Eastern Daylight Time

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