Economic Development Specialist, BNSF

Jones Lang LaSalle Incorporated; Kansas City (KS); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

JLL is seeking an Economic Development Specialist to manage regional project support for client Regional Managers, driving site and facility location efforts and opportunities in the Kansas City area. You will coordinate project reviews, perform market research, develop client proposals, and maintain detailed documentation while building strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders.

Travel up to 25%.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required; preferred fields include Business Administration, Real Estate, Finance
• 5+ years in economic development or commercial real estate
• Direct experience with railroad operations or logistics preferred

Responsibilities

• Coordinate client internal project reviews and approval processes
• Monitor progress of construction projects at industrial locations
• Build and maintain strategic relationships with internal stakeholders and external partners
• Initiate and coordinate on-site development meetings with prospective companies
• Conduct market research and competitive analysis and develop proposals for client prospects
• Maintain detailed project documentation and client records

Skills

Interpersonal communication

Project coordination

Strategic thinking

Multitasking

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Salesforce CRM

Project management software

Job description

**JLL empowers you to shape a brighter way**.Our people at JLL are shaping the future of real estate for a better world by combining world class services, advisory and technology for our clients. We are committed to hiring the best, most talented people and empowering them to thrive, grow meaningful careers and to find a place where they belong. Whether you’ve got deep experience in commercial real estate, skilled trades or technology, or you’re looking to apply your relevant experience to a new industry, join our team as we help shape a brighter way forward.Economic Development SpecialistPosition OverviewThe Economic Development Specialist manages comprehensive project support services for client Regional Managers. Facilitates strategic site and facility location services for prospective companies and business expansion opportunities for existing companies within a designated geographic territory. This role requires strong project coordination skills and deep knowledge of economic development processes.Key ResponsibilitiesProject Management & Coordination• Manage and coordinate client internal project reviews and approval processes• Monitor progress and provide strategic guidance on track construction projects at industrial locations• Build and maintain strategic relationships with internal stakeholders and external partners• Ensure project deliverables meet established timelines and quality standardsBusiness Development & Client Relations• Initiate and coordinate on-site development meetings with prospective companies• Conduct comprehensive market research and competitive analysis• Compile and analyze data to support business development initiatives• Develop presentations and proposals for client prospectsAdministrative & Reporting• Utilize and monitor client internal project management tools and systems• Generate detailed progress reports and performance metrics• Maintain accurate project documentation and client records• Support special projects and strategic initiatives as assignedRequired QualificationsEducation• Minimum: Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution• Preferred: Business Administration, Real Estate, Finance, or related fieldExperience• 5+ years of progressive experience in economic development and/or commercial real estate• Direct experience in railroad operations or logistics preferred• Demonstrated track record of successful project managementTechnical Skills• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word, Outlook)• Experience with project management software and tools, Salesforce CRM experience strongly preferredProfessional Competencies• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills across all organizational levels• Strong organizational abilities with keen attention to detail• Proven ability to prioritize and manage multiple competing business needs• Strategic thinking and problem-solving capabilitiesSpecialized Knowledge• Understanding of geographic boundaries, zoning regulations, comparative market analyses, and land use planning• Knowledge of engineering challenges and environmental compliance issues• Familiarity with surveys, platting, and development processes• Experience with leasing and contract fundamentals including indemnification, environmental provisions, and insurance requirementsLicensing & Certifications• Valid Real Estate license for assigned state(s) required. Must obtain within first six months of employment if needed.• Additional relevant certifications preferredWorking Conditions• Primary work location at client sites or project locations• Extensive daily interaction with clients, contractors, and stakeholders (in-person and remote)• Travel requirement: Up to 25% within assigned geographic region• Flexible schedule to accommodate client needs and project demandsSuccess Metrics• Successful completion of assigned development projects within established timelines• Client satisfaction and retention rates• Quality of market research and business intelligence provided• Effectiveness of stakeholder relationship management\\_\\_\\_\\_\\_\\_\\_\\_\\_\\_\\_\\_\\_\\_\\_\\_\\_\\_\\_\\_\\_\\_\\_\\_\\_\\_\\_\\_\\_\\_\\_\\_\\_\\_\\_\\_\\_\\_\\_\\_This position presents a unique opportunity to play a pivotal role in driving regional economic development. As a key contributor, you will be instrumental in fostering client revenue growth while spearheading meaningful community development initiatives. This position does not provide visa sponsorship. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship.