Strategic Economic Development & Grants Lead

Town of Smithfield; Smithfield (RI); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

The Town of Smithfield is seeking a Community Investment Manager within the Department of Planning & Economic Development to lead economic development initiatives, grant development, and strategic partnerships.

The role coordinates with the Economic Development Commission, manages town grant programs, and collaborates with businesses and agencies to strengthen Smithfield's economic base and long-term resilience. Evening meetings and occasional travel support program delivery.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in public administration, economic development, urban planning, public policy, business or related field is required; Master’s preferred.
• 3–5 years of progressively responsible experience in economic development, grants management, or municipal government.
• Experience identifying funding opportunities and preparing successful grant applications is required; federal/state grant experience is preferred.
• Experience administering grants including budgeting, reporting, reimbursement, compliance, and closeout is preferred.
• Municipal government experience and working with boards, commissions, or public officials is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Act as primary staff liaison to the Economic Development Commission and coordinate priorities.
• Develop and implement an annual economic and community development work program with measurable outcomes.
• Advance town goals through strategies strengthening commercial and employment bases and long-term resilience.
• Coordinate outreach to local businesses and stakeholders to identify needs and build partnerships.
• Identify redevelopment opportunities and coordinate public-private investment initiatives.
• Prepare reports and recommendations for policies, investments, and programs.

Skills

Grant development

Economic development

Partnership building

Budgeting

Education

Bachelor’s degree in public administration / economics / urban planning

Master’s degree preferred

Tools

MS Office

Grant management software

Job description

The Town of Smithfield is seeking a Community Investment Manager within the Department of Planning & Economic Development to lead economic development initiatives, grant development, and strategic partnerships.

The role coordinates with the Economic Development Commission, manages town grant programs, and collaborates with businesses and agencies to strengthen Smithfield's economic base and long-term resilience. Evening meetings and occasional travel support program delivery.