What are the responsibilities and job description for the Downtown Projects Coordinator position at City of Kalamazoo, MI?
Under the direction of the Downtown Coordinator, the Downtown Projects Coordinator provides marketing, communications, and project support for downtown initiatives administered by the Downtown Development Authority (DDA) and Downtown Economic Growth Authority (DEGA).
This position is responsible for managing downtown marketing and communications, supporting implementation of downtown programs and projects, and serving as the primary staff support for the Events and Marketing Committee. The role supports day-to-day execution of DEGA/DDA priorities, maintains downtown’s digital presence and brand consistency, and assists with coordination across projects, committees, vendors, and stakeholders. This position supports only those initiatives and responsibilities that fall within the statutory scope and authority of the DDA and DEGA.
Examples of Duties
- Marketing, Communications & Digital Management
- Manage and maintain Downtown Kalamazoo digital platforms, including the downtown website, social media accounts, and email newsletters.
- Create, schedule, and update digital content related to downtown events, programs, construction updates, and business promotions.
- Implement downtown branding standards across marketing materials, digital platforms, and public-facing projects.
- Maintain a downtown content calendar aligned with DEGA/DDA initiatives, events, and communications priorities.
- Manage the downtown inbox and respond to general inquiries related to downtown programs and communications, routing requests as appropriate.
- Coordinate with vendors, consultants, and City staff to support approved marketing and communications efforts.
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Programs & Project Support
- Support execution of downtown programs and projects at the direction of the Downtown Coordinator, including but not limited to:
- Downtown Ambassador Program communications and coordination
- Waste and recycling initiatives
- Business support and engagement programs
- Wayfinding and placemaking projects
- Event sponsorship administration
- Track project timelines, tasks, and deliverables and provide regular status updates.
- Assist with coordination between City departments, contractors, consultants, and downtown stakeholders related to DEGA/DDA initiatives.
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Events & Marketing Committee Support
- Serve as the primary staff support for the Events and Marketing Committee.
- Assist with preparation of agendas, meeting materials, and supporting documentation.
- Track committee action items and follow-up tasks.
- Support implementation of committee-directed marketing and sponsorship initiatives in coordination with the Downtown Coordinator.
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Administrative, Data & Reporting Support
- Assist with preparation and coordination of materials for board and committee meetings as assigned.
- Support routine administrative functions related to downtown programs, including purchase order coordination, invoice processing, and record keeping.
- Assist with data collection and reporting for downtown programs, including foot-traffic metrics, sponsorship reporting, and grant-related documentation.
- Support preparation of summaries, dashboards, and reports for internal tracking, board updates, and public communications.
- Maintain organized files and records related to DEGA/DDA initiatives.
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Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
- Knowledge of standard office practices and administrative procedures.
- Strong written communication skills and ability to prepare clear, concise materials.
- Ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize work, and meet deadlines in a collaborative environment.
- Proficiency with common office software and digital tools, including word processing, spreadsheets, email, content management systems, and social media platforms.
- Ability to interact professionally with City staff, board members, vendors, consultants, and the public.
- Ability to work independently while following established procedures and direction.
Essential Qualifications
- Experience supporting marketing, communications, or digital content in a municipal, nonprofit, or organizational setting.
- Experience with social media management, website content updates, and email marketing tools.
- Experience supporting public programs, committees, or events.
- Experience working with or supporting boards, authorities, or public agencies.
Acceptable Training and Experience
Supervision:
This position works under the general supervision of the Downtown Coordinator and does not exercise supervisory authority.
Position Scope:
This position supports only programs, initiatives, and responsibilities within the scope and authority of the Downtown Development Authority (DDA) and Downtown Economic Growth Authority (DEGA). Duties outside of DEGA/DDA responsibilities are not assigned to this position.
The City of Kalamazoo is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating a diverse, equitable and inclusive organization where different perspectives and experiences are welcomed and encouraged. Studies have shown that women and people of color, are less likely to apply for jobs unless they meet all of the qualifications listed. The City of Kalamazoo is most interested in finding the best candidate for the job, and that candidate may be one from a less traditional background. If you have transferable experience, please tell us about it. This approach will give each current and potential employee the opportunity to learn, grow and contribute to the City of Kalamazoo.
The City of Kalamazoo offers competitive benefits including health, dental, and vision insurance, flexible spending accounts, group life insurance, long and short-term disability, paid time off, a defined benefits pension plan, a 457 deferred compensation plan, and a retirement health care savings plan (HCSP). Benefits vary based on the bargaining unit of a position.
The City of Kalamazoo also operates a convenient health clinic that is open to employees, retirees, and their families and provides routine medical services and prescriptions.
The benefits for this position are negotiated between the City of Kalamazoo and the Kalamazoo Municipal Employees Association (KMEA)
For a summary of City of Kalamazoo benefits in KMEA positions, please visit our website: www.kalamazoocity.org/benefits
Please note: these benefits are subject to change.