Urban Placemaking & Economic Development Specialist

Downtown Phoenix Inc; Phoenix (AZ); On-site; USD 55,000 - 78,000; Full time

Job summary

Downtown Phoenix Inc. is seeking an Economic Development Specialist to help attract and retain businesses in the downtown core, developing placemaking projects that activate public spaces and strengthen urban identity.

The role partners with DPI teams and community stakeholders, conducts data and GIS analysis, prepares presentations, and supports grant-funded initiatives to enhance vibrancy and long-term growth downtown.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent in Economic Development, Urban Planning, or related field preferred.
• 2–5 years of professional experience in economic development or urban planning.
• Experience activating public spaces as part of downtown development strategies.
• Experience with project coordination, budgeting, and grant-funded initiatives desirable.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Familiarity with Downtown Phoenix and its neighborhoods preferred.

Responsibilities

• Support placemaking initiatives to enhance public realm and long-term urban development objectives.
• Identify opportunities for activating streets, parks, plazas and other spaces.
• Collaborate with city departments, developers, property owners, and community partners.
• Assist with planning and execution of public realm improvements and art installations.
• Coordinate across departments to ensure timely installation and program growth.
• Support events and activations to increase vibrancy and economic activity downtown.
• Develop presentations, reports and stakeholder communications related to placemaking.
• Provide data collection, Salesforce maintenance, GIS mapping, and marketing materials support.

Skills

Placemaking

Public engagement

Data analysis

Project coordination

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Economic Development or related field

Tools

Salesforce

GIS (ArcGIS)

Microsoft Excel

Job description

Downtown Phoenix Inc. is seeking an Economic Development Specialist to help attract and retain businesses in the downtown core, developing placemaking projects that activate public spaces and strengthen urban identity.

The role partners with DPI teams and community stakeholders, conducts data and GIS analysis, prepares presentations, and supports grant-funded initiatives to enhance vibrancy and long-term growth downtown.