Economic Development & Tourism Specialist

Salary: $29.85 – $31.56 Hourly
Location : Rusk County Government Center, WI
Job Type: Full-time
Job Number:
Department: Economic Development & Tourism
Opening Date: 01/08/2026
Closing Date: 1/25/2026 11:59 PM Central
Description
Coordinate, direct, and implement programs that support a broad range of economic development and tourism initiatives for Rusk County. This includes attracting new commercial, office, and industrial development; supporting small business growth; and advancing redevelopment projects. The Specialist promotes Rusk County’s amenities, events, and activities to residents and visitors using multiple media platforms.

This role supports communities, businesses, entrepreneurs, and development prospects to position Rusk County as a desirable place to live, work, and visit. The Specialist fosters job creation and retention through business development, retention, and entrepreneurship efforts while addressing workforce needs across the county.
Key responsibilities include cultivating relationships with local government officials, business leaders, chamber of commerce, regional partners, media, and the general public. The Specialist also utilizes modern technologies to create and implement strategic tourism and economic development initiatives. The ultimate goal is to foster an environment in Rusk County that encourages economic growth.

Examples of Duties
The following duties are normal for this position. These are not to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive. Other duties may be required and assigned.

Tourism Promotion and Marketing

• Lead and manage promotional advertising campaigns to attract tourism.
• Plan and develop tourism-related marketing materials and events, including brochures, handouts, and print/digital media.
• Maintain and update Rusk County’s tourism website and social media platforms with timely reports, events, and information.
• Develop content for newsletters, blogs, and online platforms promoting Rusk County destinations and activities.
• Maintain a county photo library for use on media platforms, ads, and grant applications.
• Coordinate tourism publications, sponsor ships, advertisements, and entertainment.
• Ensure production of a visitor-focused guide and other print and digital tourism resources.
• Build strong partnerships with the Chamber of Commerce; meet regularly to coordinate promotional efforts.
• Represent the county in local, regional, and statewide tourism promotion events.
• Manage day-to-day operations of the Rusk County Visitor’s Center and provide high-quality customer service.

Economic Development

• Plan, direct, and coordinate countywide economic development activities and strategies in collaboration with local partners.
• Work proactively on business retention, expansion, and recruitment.
• Develop programs that market Rusk County as a destination for business and leisure, increasing overnight stays and visitor spending.
• Meet with developers, business leaders, and entrepreneurs to promote Rusk County and provide guidance on opportunities and financial tools.
• Maintain regular contact with local businesses, financial institutions, and professionals to support development initiatives.
• Conduct and coordinate research on workforce, land use, infrastructure, and economic/fiscal trends to inform development strategies.
• Maintain an up-to-date database of county businesses, events, and attractions for use in marketing materials and public communication.
• Develop and maintain county economic development websites, brochures, maps, press releases, and promotional materials.
• Use online and social media tools to advance economic and tourism-related initiatives.
• Maintain working relationships with tourism-related clubs (e.g. ATV and snowmobile clubs).
• Market available county properties.
• Oversee Rusk County’s Comprehensive Plan.

Administrative and Operational Duties

• Perform administrative tasks including answering phones, maintaining supplies, processing mail, and preparing reports and correspondence.
• Ensure purchasing and financial transactions comply with county policies and state statutes.
• Support the preparation of agendas and resolutions for county board meetings related to economic development and…