Salary: $81,698.00 - $104,244.00 Annually              

Location: City Hall  300 Monroe Ave NW Grand Rapids, MI

Job Type: Permanent

Job Number: 717-0226                                                                  

Department: Economic Development

Opening Date: 02/18/2026

Closing Date: 3/18/2026 11:59 PM Eastern

Nature of Work

The purpose of this job is to manage and administer various tax abatement and tax increment financing programs. The majority of time is dedicated to supporting projects for the Grand Rapids Brownfield Redevelopment Authority. Provides guidance and assistance to businesses, developers, property owners, and citizens, and acts as a liaison with other City departments and partner agencies. Seeks out and implements special programs (i.e. grants), and researches and develops new programs to promote economic development, whether implemented by the City, or a partner organization through a contractual relationship.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES 
The intent of this job description is to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities performed by employees in this job. Employees may be requested to perform job-related tasks other than those specifically presented in this description.

• Manages and implements the core programs of the Economic Development Department, including various tax abatement programs as authorized by State Legislation, with primary focus on Brownfield redevelopment projects
• Responds to inquiries from, other municipalities requesting information and citizen inquiries regarding specific projects
• Evaluates opportunities for grant funding to support business development; writes grants; directs utilization of grant funds; provides oversight to administrative staff for financial administration and reporting requirements of grants
• Reports on progress and outcomes of departmental programs and initiatives
• Performs program evaluation and identifies process improvement; participates in program modifications and/or policies to align with City priorities
• Participates in the formation of budgets for the department, including related boards and authorities
• Prepares a variety of correspondence and reports related to the work; assists with special projects; maintains records and statistics; attends a variety of meetings
• Performs related work as required

Minimum Training and Experience

Required Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in business or public administration, urban planning or related field

--AND--

• Three (3) years of professional experience related to economic development

--OR--

• Any equivalent combination of training, education, and experience that provides the required skills, knowledge, and abilities

We Offer: 

• Medical, Dental, and Vision starting on Day 1
• 6% employee 401a contribution with employer matching (6% or 7% based on bargaining unit)
• Employee & Employer contributions to Retiree Health Savings Account
• Voluntary benefits such as term life insurance, flexible spending accounts, accidental insurance, disability insurance, and deferred compensation plan options
• Twelve Paid Holidays
• Paid Vacation and Sick Time
• Paid parking (if applicable)
• Employee Home Ownership Incentive
• Tuition Reimbursement and professional development opportunities
• Paid Parental Leave
• Employee Assistance Program with free mental health counseling
• Comprehensive Wellness program with a health and wellness incentive
• Employee Discounts and Perks

Should an applicant need any disability related accommodation or other consideration in the application or selection process, please notify the human resources department upon submittal of application

The City of Grand Rapids does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy or gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factor.

Apply Now:

Click here for more information and to apply.

Please Note:
This position is subject to the provisions of the applicable collective bargaining agreement and all relevant civil service rules. For additional information, links to union agreement and Civil Service Rules are provided below.