Economic Development Assistant Director

Summary: The Assistant Director of Economic Development assists in the planning, coordination, and execution of economic development strategies that drive business growth, job creation, and overall community enhancement for the City of Williston. Working closely with the Executive Director, this position helps implement economic initiatives, manage development projects, and foster relationships with key stakeholders.

Supervision Received: Executive Director of Economic Development

Supervision Exercised: May oversee assigned staff and projects as designated by the Executive Director

FLSA Status: Exempt

Essential Job Functions:

1. Support the Executive Director in developing and executing economic development plans aligned with the city’s vision, with a focus on business attraction, retention, and workforce development.
2. Assist in identifying and pursuing opportunities to attract new businesses while strengthening relationships with existing businesses to promote expansion and sustainability.
3. Build and maintain partnerships with local businesses, government agencies, educational institutions, and community organizations to foster a collaborative economic environment.
4. Oversee and manage key economic development projects and initiatives, ensuring alignment with city goals and compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.
5. Support financial planning efforts, including assisting in the creation and administration of the department’s budget, grant applications, and funding strategies.
6. Work alongside infrastructure and planning teams to identify and advocate for improvements that support economic development.
7. Assist in marketing and promotional efforts to position Williston as a prime location for investment, working on branding, communications, and business outreach.
8. Collaborate with workforce development agencies and educational partners to ensure a well-trained workforce that meets the needs of local industries.
9. Monitor economic trends and analyze data to evaluate the effectiveness of development initiatives, preparing reports and presentations as needed.
10. Represent the City of Williston at meetings, conferences, and events related to economic development.
11. Performs related work as required.
12. Performs all work duties and activities in accordance with City policies and procedures.

Note:  The functions and duties listed are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of the specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position. The job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Strong leadership and communication skills with the ability to engage and collaborate with diverse stakeholders. 
• Strong interpersonal skills, as well as organizational, problem-solving, and research skills. 
• Excellent oral and written communication skills; public speaking experience. 
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with officials, employees, and the public. 
• Knowledge of local, state, and federal economic development programs and incentives. Familiarity with the economic landscape of North Dakota and the energy sector is advantageous.

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Economic Development, Business Administration, or Public Administration, from an accredited college or university or closely related field OR any equivalent combination of education and experience.

Experience: Proven experience in economic development, business attraction, and strategic planning. Minimum of (5) years of leadership and people management experience at an economic development organization or equivalent combination of education and experience. 

Necessary Special Requirement:  Valid North Dakota driver's license; must be bondable and insurable under the City’s motor vehicle insurance policy.

Equipment Used in Job Performance:  Computer; telephone or copy machine.

Physical Demands:  While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to walk; sit; talk or hear; use hands and fingers, handle, feel or operate objects, and reach with hands and arms. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, and the ability to adjust focus.

Work Environment:  The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee regularly works indoors but sometimes travels the city for reasons related to the job. The noise level in the work environment is moderate. 

The City of Williston does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, genetics, religion, age or disability in employment or the provision of services and complies with the provisions of the North Dakota Human Rights Act. 
 
Any materials, files, documents, electronic tools, or other items collected or created by an employee in connection with their employment remain the property of the City. Additionally, all material created, transmitted/sent, received, deleted, downloaded, or stored using electronic tools are and remain the property of the City.  Employees have no expectation of privacy when using City property.
 
 The City of Williston is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.

Salary : $120,000