Economic Development Specialist I

State of Mississippi; Mississippi; On-site; USD 44,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

State of Mississippi's Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services (MDRS) is seeking an Economic Development Specialist I to identify job leads, build employer relationships, and coordinate work-based opportunities for OVR clients in Forrest County, MS. The role requires a Bachelor’s Degree, 0–2 years of experience, and travel.

You will collaborate with counselors, employers, and community organizations to promote inclusive hiring and accessible workplaces, aligning employment goals with

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree and 0-2 years of experience.
• Travel is required.
• Experience with disability services preferred.

Responsibilities

• Identify job leads and arrange work-based learning opportunities for OVR clients.
• Establish relationships with local employers and community organizations to promote inclusive hiring.
• Partner with OVR counselors and staff to create client referrals and coordinated employment preparation.
• Consult businesses on disability inclusion, recruitment, retention and accommodation strategies.
• Market OVR services to businesses and provide disability awareness training.
• Develop and deliver training sessions on disability-related topics.
• Maintain records of business engagement activities and client progress.
• Plan and prioritize activities to maximize time and resources.

Skills

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Relationship building

Education

Bachelor's degree

Job description

Economic Development Specialist I in 18 - FORREST COUNTY, MS |

State of Mississippi

$43,509.31 - $47,509.31 Annually

Location

18 - FORREST COUNTY, MS

Full-Time

Agency Minimum Salary

$43,509.31

$47,509.31

Closing Deadline

11/10/2026 at 11:59 PM Central Time (US & Canada)

About the Agency

The Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services (MDRS) is a state agency dedicated to helping Mississippians with disabilities to live and work independently. MDRS serves through four major programs: Vocational Rehabilitation (VR), Vocational Rehabilitation for the Blind (VRB), Office of Special Disability Programs (OSDP), and Disability Determination Services (DDS). Services also include support through Assistive Technology, the Office of Business Development and much more. It is the mission of MDRS to provide appropriate and comprehensive services in a timely and effective manner. Programs and services assist individuals with disabilities to gain employment, retain employment, and to live independently. MDRS is always looking for qualified and passionate employees to help fulfill its mission. To inquire about this position, please email [e-mail].

Key Responsibilities

• Identify job leads, arrange work-based learning opportunities, and assist with job placements for OVR clients in community-based, competitive, and integrated employment settings.
• Establish and maintain relationships with local employers, industry groups, and community organizations to increase awareness of OVR services and encourage inclusive hiring practices.
• Partner with OVR counselors, rehabilitation staff, and educational programs to create pathways for client referrals, ensuring a coordinated approach to employment preparation and support.
• Act as a consultant to businesses on disability inclusion, providing expert advice on recruitment, hiring, retention, and accommodation strategies for individuals with disabilities, including ongoing support for employees who acquire a disability.
• Market OVR services to businesses by understanding their workforce needs and providing tailored solutions, including disability awareness training, accommodation assistance, and recruitment of qualified individuals with disabilities.
• Develop and deliver training sessions for businesses on disability-related topics, including legal requirements, best practices for accessibility, and strategies to enhance workplace inclusivity.
• Employ a “dual customer” strategy that considers the needs of both businesses and OVR clients, fostering mutually beneficial relationships to address business concerns while supporting successful employment outcomes for clients.
• Keep current on labor market trends, industry needs, and emerging opportunities to provide relevant guidance to OVR clients and staff, helping to align career development efforts with business needs.
• Utilize case management systems and mobile technology to document activities, track client progress, and communicate employment outcomes, maintain accurate records of business engagement activities.
• Plan and prioritize activities with a focus on maximizing time and resources, balancing multiple appointments and responsibilities to meet organizational goals effectively.
• Perform additional tasks as required to support the mission and goals of MDRS and the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation.

What you'll need to be Successful

Must be extremely organized. Must communicate efficiently and professionally (both verbally and written). Must be able to build and sustain relationships easily. Must work collaboratively as well as independently. Should demonstrate the ability to assess, plan, prioritize, and organize in order to meet goals. Travel is required.

Preferred Qualifications

Typically requires a Bachelor’s Degree and 0-2 years of experience. AGENCY PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: Bachelor’s Degree, sales/marketing experience and one year of experience working with individuals with disabilities.

Address 210 East Capitol Street
Suite 800
Jackson, Mississippi, 39201