Economic Development & Grants Lead

Town-of-Smithfield; Smithfield (RI); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

The Town of Smithfield's Department of Planning & Economic Development seeks a Community Investment Manager to lead economic development initiatives, grant development, and partnerships. The role reports to the Director and serves as primary staff liaison to the Economic Development Commission.

You will manage a Town-wide grant program, coordinate with businesses and agencies, and translate plans into actionable projects while ensuring compliance, reporting, and fiscal stewardship.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in public administration, economic development, planning, or related field; Master’s preferred.
• 3–5 years of professional experience in economic development, grants management, municipal government, or nonprofit management.
• Experience identifying funding opportunities and preparing grant applications.
• Experience administering grants including budgeting, reporting, and compliance.
• Municipal government experience and working with boards/commissions preferred.

Responsibilities

• Serve as primary staff liaison to the Economic Development Commission.
• Develop annual economic and community development work program with Director and Commission.
• Develop strategies to strengthen the Town’s commercial and employment base.
• Lead or coordinate grant development and administration including reporting and compliance.
• Coordinate partnerships with governmental, educational, and business stakeholders.
• Prepare reports and recommendations; monitor relevant legislation and programs.

Skills

Grant development

Economic development planning

Project management

Stakeholder engagement

Budgeting

Leadership

Public reporting

Education

Bachelor’s degree in public administration / economic development / planning

Master’s degree preferred

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

The Town of Smithfield's Department of Planning & Economic Development seeks a Community Investment Manager to lead economic development initiatives, grant development, and partnerships. The role reports to the Director and serves as primary staff liaison to the Economic Development Commission.

You will manage a Town-wide grant program, coordinate with businesses and agencies, and translate plans into actionable projects while ensuring compliance, reporting, and fiscal stewardship.