Economic Development Specialist

College Township; State College (Centre County); On-site; USD 25,000 - 41,000; Part time

Job summary

College Township in State College, PA seeks an Economic Development Specialist (part-time, on-site) to strengthen the local economy by promoting business retention and attraction, and by analyzing data to inform policy and planning.

You will collaborate with regional partners and community organizations, prepare reports for staff and officials, and assist with grant applications and outreach to diverse stakeholders.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of local government operations and economic development principles.
• Ability to research, analyze data, and prepare clear reports for decision-makers.
• Strong written and verbal communication for diverse audiences.
• Proficiency with office software and willingness to learn GIS/data tools.
• Experience collaborating with stakeholders and coordinating across agencies.

Responsibilities

• Support business retention and attraction initiatives.
• Assist with navigating local processes and permits.
• Gather and analyze economic data to inform policy.
• Prepare reports and presentations for staff and elected officials.
• Coordinate with regional partners and community organizations.

Skills

Local government knowledge

Research and data analysis

Written and verbal communication

Office productivity software

GIS or data visualization tools

Interpersonal skills

Organization and time management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in economics, public administration, urban planning, business, or related field

Tools

GIS

Data visualization tools

Job description

Company Description

College Township, established on November 22, 1875, is located in Centre County, Pennsylvania, and was formed from parts of Benner and Harris Townships. It operates as a Pennsylvania Township of the Second Class under the Home Rule Charter and Optional Plans Law, providing local governance and public services to its residents. The Township is part of the greater State College area, offering a community-focused environment with access to educational, commercial, and recreational resources. College Township values professional public service, collaborative problem-solving, and responsible stewardship of community assets.

Role Description

The Economic Development Specialist is a part-time, on-site role based in State College, PA, supporting College Township's efforts to strengthen its local economy. This position focuses on promoting business retention and attraction, assisting existing and prospective businesses with navigating local processes, and gathering and analyzing economic data to inform policy and planning. The specialist coordinates with regional partners, educational institutions, and community organizations to identify opportunities for sustainable growth and redevelopment. Day-to-day tasks include preparing reports and presentations for Township staff and elected officials, maintaining economic development resources, supporting grant and funding applications, and engaging with stakeholders through meetings and community outreach. The role also contributes to strategic planning initiatives, recommends improvements to Township programs, and supports communication efforts that highlight economic opportunities in the area.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of local government operations, economic development principles, and community planning sufficient to support business retention, attraction, and revitalization efforts.
• Ability to conduct research, analyze economic and demographic data, and prepare clear reports, summaries, and recommendations for decision-makers.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to prepare professional correspondence, presentations, and outreach materials for diverse audiences.
• Proficiency with office productivity software (e.g., word processing, spreadsheets, presentation tools) and comfort learning basic GIS or data visualization tools as needed.
• Effective interpersonal and relationship-building skills to collaborate with businesses, residents, regional partners, and Township staff in a professional and inclusive manner.
• Demonstrated organizational skills, including the ability to manage multiple projects, meet deadlines, and maintain accurate records and documentation.
• Bachelor’s degree in economics, public administration, urban planning, business, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
• Experience or internship in economic development, municipal government, planning, or community development is beneficial.
• Familiarity with the State College and Centre County region, or interest in learning local economic conditions and community priorities, is an advantage.