What are the responsibilities and job description for the Economic Development Coordinator position at Target Alpena Development Corporation/Alpena Area...?
Economic Development Specialist
Target Alpena
Location: Alpena, MI
Employment Type: Full-Time, Exempt
Salary: Competitive, based on experience | Funding: Grant-funded position
Position Summary
The Economic Development Coordinator plays a key role in strengthening the economic vitality of Northeast Michigan. This position supports business retention and expansion efforts, helps coordinate development projects, assists communities with grant opportunities, and provides administrative and strategic support to housing and economic development initiatives.
The ideal candidate is highly organized, relationship-focused, and comfortable working with business owners, local governments, and regional partners.
Key Responsibilities
1. Business & Industry Support (BRE)
- Conduct outreach to local businesses to understand their needs, challenges, and opportunities.
- Assist companies with accessing resources, incentives, and technical assistance programs.
- Maintain positive relationships with employers, workforce partners, and state agencies.
2. Grant & Project Coordination
- Research economic development funding opportunities at the local, state, and federal levels.
- Assist in preparing grant applications by compiling information, drafting narrative sections, and organizing supporting documentation.
- Help coordinate awarded projects by tracking deadlines, reporting requirements, and partner responsibilities.
3. Community & Economic Development Initiatives
- Support local units of government with economic development research, site readiness information, and general coordination.
- Assist with planning and implementing community or regional development initiatives, including downtown projects, small business support programs, and redevelopment strategies.
- Provide logistical and administrative support for economic development meetings, committees, and task forces.
4. Data, Research & Communications
- Collect and maintain economic, demographic, and business data to support decision-making.
- Prepare reports, summaries, presentations, and outreach materials for stakeholders.
- Maintain databases of businesses, community partners, and development-related contacts.
5. Partnership & Collaboration
- Serve as a liaison between Target Alpena, local governments, chambers, economic development partners, and community organizations.
- Participate in regional meetings, workshops, and public engagement activities.
- Help coordinate multi-county economic development efforts in alignment with regional strategies.
Qualifications
Required:
- Bachelor’s degree in business, public administration, community development, planning, economics, or a related field.
- Strong communication, writing, and organizational skills.
- Ability to manage multiple projects and work independently.
- Experience engaging with businesses, community organizations, or public-sector partners.
Preferred:
- Experience with economic development, business support programs, or community development initiatives.
- Familiarity with grants, project management, or local government processes.
- Ability to interpret basic economic data, site information, or planning documents.
Ideal Candidate Skills & Traits:
- Strong relationship builder
- Excellent oral and written communicator
- Comfortable in both office and community-based settings
- Detail-oriented with strong follow-through
- Problem-solver who can work with diverse stakeholders
How to Apply
Submit your resume and cover letter to info@alpenachamber.com. Applications reviewed on a rolling basis.
Benefits:
- Health insurance
- Retirement plan
Work Location: In person