Economic Development Specialist

Under general direction, the Economic Development Specialist plays a vital role in advancing the City’s economic development objectives by supporting a variety of programs and initiatives that align with the City’s evolving growth strategies and promote overall economic vitality. The specialist provides research, marketing, and administrative support, assists with departmental operations as priorities arise, and actively engages with local businesses, developers, community partners, and regional organizations to help implement strategies that achieve meaningful results.

This position requires a proactive, solution-oriented “will-do” mindset, strong collaboration and professionalism, and the ability to adapt, learn quickly, and take initiative to drive community, workforce, and business development. Performs other duties as assigned.

To be considered, interested candidates need to apply on the City of Rowlett career page:

The City of Rowlett offers a great work/life balance schedule by offering a 4-day work week with normal business hours of 7:30 am - 5:30 pm depending on departmental work schedules. We have great benefit and compensation packages as well as a 7%, 2:1 match TMRS pension.

• Program Support & Implementation:
  Assist with programs and initiatives that advance the City’s economic development goals, responding to emerging opportunities and priorities as strategies evolve.
• Business & Investment Engagement:
  Support efforts to attract new businesses and investment, retain and expand existing businesses, and strengthen the local economic ecosystem.
• Research & Analysis:
  Conduct research and analyze social, economic, and industry data to support strategic decision-making and innovative initiatives.
• Marketing & Communications:
  Contribute to web, print, and social media campaigns that promote the City’s economic opportunities and community image.
• Collaboration & Partnerships:
  Build and maintain positive relationships with regional and local organizations, developers, corporate leaders, and City departments to advance projects efficiently and collaboratively.
• Incentives & Compliance:
  Support administration of economic development incentives, monitor compliance, and provide updates to stakeholders.
• Communications Initiatives:
  Work with the City’s Community Engagement Department and external marketing consultants to develop communications initiatives that promote the City’s image and inform the business community.
• Database & Reporting:
  Maintain accurate data on properties, development projects, and business activity, and prepare reports aligned with measurable goals and City strategies.
• Leadership & Administrative Support:
  Assist the Assistant Director with departmental leadership, operational tasks, and administrative functions as priorities arise.
• Special Projects & Coordination:
  Take ownership of special projects, coordinate department meetings and events, and support initiatives that arise in response to dynamic priorities.
• Community & Stakeholder Engagement:
  Engage with businesses, residents, and community partners to support the City’s economic development mission, demonstrating professionalism, initiative, and collaboration.
• Advisory Board Support:
  Assist the Economic Development Advisory Board (EDAB) in advancing its mission and goals.
• Performs other duties as assigned:
  Demonstrates flexibility, a growth mindset, and a willingness to take initiative to support the team and City strategies.

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Economics, Public Administration, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum of three (3) years of professional experience in economic development, community or workforce development, real estate, downtown management, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience in research, data analysis, or project management is highly valued.
• Professional certification in Economic Development (e.g., CEcD or EDFP) is a plus but not required.

• Proactive, solutions-oriented “will-do” mindset and professionalism
• Strong collaboration skills and the ability to work…