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Economic Development Specialist - Village of Richton Park, Illinois

Economic Development Specialist

Richton Park, IL (12,775). The Village of Richton Park seeks an aspiring municipal professional. The hub of Chicago’s Southland suburbs, the Village of Richton Park strives to be a premier community that is committed to providing a safe, resident and business-friendly environment, with high quality services, excellent schools, and a responsive government. Spanning a total area of 4 square miles, the Village provides a full range of municipal services with a budget of $20 million and 140 employees. Richton Park has evolved into a warm, welcoming and diverse village with easy access to Chicago via a busy Metra station and Interstates 57 and 80. With much to offer, the Village aims to be a place where people want to live, work and play.

Apply online at www.richtonpark.org with a resume, cover letter and contact information for three professional references by October, 29, 2023.

Summary

The Economic Development Specialist will conduct program administration of multiple economic development-related programs under the direction of the Assistant Director of Community & Economic Development. Administration of Tax Increment Financing (TIF) incentives programs including annual TIF reporting and support of the TIF Joint Review Board are essential functions. The position will also administer the Village’s business license program and directly process all license applications. The position will further provide support in grant writing, liaising with partner institutions in the region, performing business site visits, organizing and promoting certain business development events and conducting research as assigned. The Economic Development Specialist will also provide some general office and customer service support including, answering customer questions, providing backup front desk support, assisting in the processing of payments related to permits and fees, and performing some invoice and permit entry into Village systems.

The Village of Richton Park operates under the Council/Manager form of government. The Village President and six members of the Board of Trustees are elected at large on a staggered basis for four-year terms. Other Village departments include Administration, Community & Economic Development, Fire, Parks & Recreation, Police, and Public Works.

Qualifications

The Economic Development Specialist must have proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and Microsoft Outlook; strong analytical and writing skills using Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Word; dependable research and public communication skills; strong organizational and time management skills; and, a basic understanding of land use planning, economic development and the development process. Candidates must have either a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field or an Associate’s Degree in a relevant field and two years of related experience. Any combination of education and experience that provides the equivalent knowledge, skills and abilities will be considered.

Preferred skills include a broad understanding of municipal processes, advanced skills in the use of Microsoft Excel, basic familiarity with web-based content management systems, and a basic understanding of GIS mapping systems. A Bachelor’s degree and at least two years of planning or public relations experience is preferred.

Benefits

The starting salary range is $55,000 to $60,000 DOQ. The Village of Richton Park offers a comprehensive benefit plan which includes contributions to medical, dental, life insurance and the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund, optional 457 plan, and paid vacation, sick and holiday time.

The Village of Richton Park is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity at all levels of its workforce.