Small Business Support Specialist

KAWERAK POSITION DESCRIPTION

Recruitment Length: 2 weeks, closes 7/28/2026

JOB TITLE:

Small Business Support Specialist

DIVISION:
Community Services

DEPARTMENT:
Community Planning & Development

LOCATION:

Nome, Alaska – Onsite

POSITION STATUS:
Regular, Part-Time (20 Hrs./Week)

EXEMPT STATUS:
Non-Exempt

PAY SCALE RANGE: 11–12–13 ($36.90 – $48.17 DOE)

REPORTS TO:

CPD Program Director

AKBCU:
Yes ICPA:
No

The Small Business Support Specialist helps individuals interested in developing new business ideas or expanding an existing business. This position contributes to Kawerak’s priorities by providing economic opportunities for People of the region to improve their quality of life. Major responsibilities will include working with individuals who are interested in starting businesses, connecting clients to regional and statewide resources, and coordinating opportunities for training and business development.

This position plays a role in improving diverse local economies through business development.

• Serves as primary contact for small business clients.
• Responds to inquiries from the Public regarding small business development.
• Provides technical assistance to clients (e.g. business planning support, computer support).
• Assists clients with application forms (e.g. grant funding, travel support).

• Builds collaborative working relationships with local, state, and federal partners.
• Attends and participates in meetings and conferences relevant to small business development.
• Connects clients with Alaska Small Business Development Center resources.
• Provides regular outreach to small business clients regarding new resources and opportunities.
• Monitors and updates the Bering Strait Business Directory ().
• Monitors and updates the Bering Strait Arts & Crafts Vendor page.

• Assists with coordination of business development events (e.g. craft festivals, vendor showcases).
• Assists with coordination of business development workshops (e.g. Quick Books training, small business management, financial management, eCommerce training).
• Performs other duties as assigned.

• Associate’s degree (AA) in Business Administration, Rural Development, or a related field. Comparable work experience may substitute for the degree on a year-for-year basis.
• Willingness and ability to travel as needed to support training, meetings, conferences, and other Community Planning & Development initiatives.

• Proficient computer skills including Microsoft Office applications, social media platforms, website fundamentals, and other business software.
• Strong customer service and communication skills.
• Strong writing and editing skills.
• Strong organizational and coordination skills.
• Ability to plan and execute events including regional craft fairs to support small business vendors, workshops for small business owners, and other business development training opportunities.
• Ability to occasionally attend evening meetings and work outside normal business hours as needed.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with small business clients, local/state/federal partners, supervisors, leadership, and individuals from diverse backgrounds.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects simultaneously for a variety of clients.

• Work is primarily performed in an office environment and requires prolonged periods of sitting while using a computer and other standard office equipment.
• Exceptions include standing during prolonged periods of time for events, workshops, trainings, conferences, community meetings, etc.
• Frequently communicate effectively in person, by telephone, email, and virtual meeting platforms.
• Occasionally stand, walk, bend, reach, and lift or carry up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to read printed materials and computer screens and accurately prepare and review documents.
• Ability to travel, including occasional travel to rural Alaska communities using various modes of transportation, as required.

• 11: AA or 2 years experience
• 12: AA or 4 years experience
• 13: AA or 6 years experience