Development Officer; Special Projects; Unclassified

The Development Officer – Special Projects serves as a lead administrator and project manager for strategic initiatives within the Department of Opportunity and Resident Services (DORS). This position is responsible for developing, implementing, coordinating, and evaluating special projects that advance resident opportunity, economic mobility, home ownership, small business growth, neighborhood investment, and human services priorities.

The role provides flexible support across multiple program areas and serves as a key liaison between the City, nonprofit organizations, community-based partners, small businesses, service providers, financial institutions, philanthropic organizations, and residents. Projects may range from pilot initiatives and grant‑funded programs to City‑sponsored investments and cross‑departmental efforts that address emerging community needs.

This position manages projects from concept development through implementation, funding coordination, contract administration, compliance monitoring, reporting, and closeout. The Development Officer (Special Projects) works collaboratively across City departments and with external stakeholders to ensure projects are administered effectively, resources are leveraged strategically, and outcomes align with the City’s goals.

• Special projects are delivered on time, within budget, and aligned with departmental priorities.
• Partnerships are cultivated and leveraged to expand resources and opportunities for residents.
• Programs demonstrate measurable outcomes and positive community impact.
• Stakeholders view DORS as responsive, collaborative, and solutions-oriented.
• New initiatives are successfully developed and implemented to address emerging community needs.
• Opportunities for innovation, funding, and cross‑sector collaboration are actively identified and advanced.

• Principles, practices, and terminology of economic development.
• Principles and practices of community development and revitalization programs.
• Basic practices and principles of economics and finance.
• Principles and practices of real estate.
• Pertinent Federal, State, and Local laws, codes, rules and regulations.
• Methods of program development, evaluation, and administration.
• Principles and practices of municipal accounting and budget development.
• Principles and practices of grant application and administration.
• Principles and practices of research and analysis.
• Methods and techniques of report writing.
• City geography.
• Job related computer software applications, including word processing, spreadsheets, and database applications.
• The local economic, cultural and political environment.

• Negotiate and mediate effectively.
• Read and understand maps, blueprints, and specifications.
• Operate a personal computer and other standard office equipment.
• Operate motor vehicle in performance of job duties.
• Read and interpret financial statements.
• Read and interpret real estate agreements and financing documents.

• Produce and explain results of financial analyses.
• Identify, analyze, and resolve program deficiencies; develop solutions and recommend changes.
• Create and make effective presentations.
• Recommend actions to decision makers based on a logical analysis of the information. Interpret and explain City policies and procedures.
• Process complex information while maintaining attention to detail.
• Conduct research and prepare clear and concise reports.
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
• Prioritize work and manage time to meet deadlines.
• Maintain confidentiality of City information; maintain highest ethical standards of conduct.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted while work (i.e. stakeholder groups, business owners, executives and elected officials).

• Lead the development, implementation, and management of special projects and strategic initiatives across DORS program areas.
• Support programs related to resident services, human services, housing stability, home ownership, small business development, financial empowerment, and other…