Economic Development Specialist - Small Business

Middlesex County, New Jersey; New Brunswick (NJ); On-site; USD 55,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Middlesex County is seeking an Economic Development Specialist to evolve the County’s small business and entrepreneurial ecosystem. The role centers on building relationships with owners, partners, and agencies while delivering responsive, business-focused services.

You'll develop and coordinate workshops, connect businesses to capital and technical assistance, and actively support growth initiatives in collaboration with municipal, county, and state partners.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree from a four-year college in a related field.
• Ability to maintain knowledge of local, county, state, and federal policies affecting operations.
• Experience in engaging with business communities and stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain working relationships with business owners, organizations, and agencies.
• Proactively engage Middlesex County businesses and coordinate 1:1 meetings.
• Track Small Business leads in the CRM and support program development.
• Identify grants, financing, and resources to assist growth.
• Coordinate workshops, events, and outreach activities with partners.

Skills

Communication skills

Relationship building

Community engagement

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration or related field

Tools

CRM platforms

Microsoft Office / SharePoint

Adobe Acrobat

Job description

Overview

The Economic Development Specialist (EDS) will develop and maintain a strong understanding of the small business and entrepreneurial ecosystem across Middlesex County. Working closely with the Division Head, the EDS will deliver responsive, business-focused services while identifying and implementing programs and solutions that address the evolving needs and growth goals of the County’s small business community. The EDS will regularly engage businesses in the field by visiting storefronts, commercial corridors, and Main Streets to build relationships, understand needs firsthand, and identify opportunities for support.

The EDS will bring fresh perspectives, ideas, and initiatives while progressively taking greater ownership of small business programming. This includes developing and coordinating workshops, events, and initiatives with municipal, county, and state agencies, financial institutions and CDFIs, business service providers, nonprofits, chambers, business associations, and other community partners. The EDS will serve as a trusted resource and connector, helping businesses access capital, technical assistance, workforce and talent, markets, and other growth opportunities while turning insights from the business community into practical initiatives that strengthen Middlesex County’s small business ecosystem and advance broader economic development goals.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain working relationships with business owners, community organizations, economic development organizations, government agencies, and other stakeholders.
• Proactively engage with Middlesex County businesses to and coordinate 1:1 meeting with owners/partners to understand their needs and discuss resources
• Daily tracking and support of Small Business leads in the CRM.
• Identify barriers affecting small businesses and developing strategies, programs, partnerships, and resources to address those needs.
• Visit businesses on Main Street and business corridor to share relevant information/flyers on upcoming events/grants/resources
• Identify available grants, financing programs, incentives, technical assistance, and other resources that may benefit businesses and economic development initiatives.
• Conducts research and gathers economic, market, business, and industry information to support small business activities and decision-making.
• Provides information and assistance to businesses, prospective businesses, developers, investors, and other stakeholders regarding available programs, resources, incentives, regulations, and economic development opportunities.
• Provide support to businesses with navigating state, and other governmental agencies as appropriate.
• Attend grand opening and/or celebrations of businesses
• Monitors economic development trends, programs, legislation, and initiatives and provides information and recommendations to management.
• Prepare correspondence, reports, presentations, informational materials, and other documents related to the Small Business Division.
• Coordinate meetings, workshops, business outreach activities, and other economic development events.
• Performs other related duties as assigned with business attraction, retention, expansion, and recruitment activities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree (B.A./B.S.) from a four-year college or university inBusiness Administration, Real Estate, Economics, Public Administration, Finance, Economics, or related field
• Drivers License
• Bilingual in English/Spanish is preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Ability to maintain knowledge of local, county, state, and federal policies and their impact on operations and initiatives within the County
• Proficient in standard office technology and applicable software, i.e. Microsoft Office, SharePoint, Adobe Acrobat and CRM platforms.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with business representatives, community organizations, and the public.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing; prepare reports, correspondence, presentations, and other written materials.

Pay

• $55,000-$65,000 per year, depending on experience and qualifications.

Build your future while helping shape the future of your community. At Middlesex County, we’re committed to supporting our employees with competitive benefits and a workplace that values well-being and balance. Middlesex County is proud to provide the resources, support, and flexibility employees need to thrive both professionally and personally.

Learn more about our benefits:Benefits

Join Middlesex County

Are you looking for a career that fits your interests and allows you to help your community? Middlesex County has opportunities for people with talent and drive!

Our 2,000+ employees work together to provide the services and support that make Middlesex County one of the healthiest, safest, and sustainable places to live work and play. We’re preparing for the future today with our Destination 2040 plan to help local businesses and residents grow and adapt to a continuously changing world.

You can build your own future while helping to build the future of your community. With competitive benefits, including a pension plan, on-site wellness coaches, and health and dental insurance, Middlesex County offers the support employees need. The County also promotes a healthy work-life balance with generous vacation, sick, and holiday leave.

Middlesex County is the most diverse county in New Jersey, and our employees reflect the dynamic energy of the County. We have locations throughout the County, from our downtown New Brunswick offices to our healthcare facilities to our parks system. No matter your interests and skills, there’s a place for you in Middlesex County. Build your career and your community – apply for a position with Middlesex County today.

For more information, visitmiddlesexcountynj.govand find us on Facebook and Instagram.

Middlesex County is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by law.