Research and Recruitment Analyst - VLCDA

Research and Recruitment Analyst - VLCDA

The Research and Recruitment Analyst supports the Valdosta-Lowndes County Development Authority’s mission to attract and grow business and industry in the Valdosta-Lowndes County area. This position provides research, data analysis, and strategic support for business recruitment, expansion, and retention projects. The Analyst also manages grant research, reporting, and compliance, ensuring the Authority meets all programmatic and financial requirements. This role combines data-driven economic research with practical project support and financial accountability to strengthen the Authority’s capacity to secure investment and enhance regional competitiveness.

• Conduct in-depth research and analysis on target industries, workforce availability, wages, demographics, and economic trends relevant to business recruitment and expansion.
• Prepare customized responses for Requests for Information (RFIs) in coordination with state and regional partners such as the Georgia Department of Economic Development, Georgia Power, and Electric Cities of Georgia.
• Identify and analyze potential target companies and sectors that align with Valdosta-Lowndes County’s strengths, including logistics, advanced manufacturing, food processing, and data services.
• Maintain and update property and building databases, ensuring accurate and market-ready information is available through platforms such as Georgia Allies and Location Georgia.
• Develop reports, profiles, presentations, and briefing materials that communicate the region’s assets, including infrastructure, education, workforce programs, and quality of life advantages.
• Compile and interpret regional economic and labor market data from sources such as JobsEQ and the Georgia Department of Labor.
• Support business retention and expansion (BRE) initiatives through data tracking and trend analysis.
• Provide mapping and data visualization support using GIS or other relevant tools.
• Maintain and organize the Authority’s CRM system and project tracking tools to ensure accurate and current reporting.
• Identify, research, and pursue federal, state, and regional grant opportunities that align with VLDA’s strategic goals.
• Manage the full grant lifecycle, including application development, submission, tracking, compliance, and reporting.
• Coordinate with partners and stakeholders to prepare supporting documentation, budgets, and measurable outcomes for grant proposals.
• Monitor active grants to ensure adherence to program guidelines, timelines, and budget parameters.
• Maintain organized grant records and prepare periodic performance and financial reports for funding agencies.
• Assist with internal audits and annual financial reviews by compiling and verifying supporting documentation.
• Ensure compliance with applicable local, state, and federal regulations, including procurement, record retention, and reporting standards.
• Collaborate with the President/CEO and finance team to align grant management and auditing activities with overall organizational goals and fiscal responsibility.

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Economics, Business Administration, Public Policy, Data Analytics, Finance, or a related field required.
• Two or more years of experience in economic development, data analysis, grant management, auditing, or related professional work preferred.

• Strong analytical, research, and quantitative skills with the ability to interpret and present complex data clearly.
• Familiarity with key data sources such as JobsEQ, ESRI, BLS, BEA, Census Bureau, and Georgia Labor Market Explorer.
• Experience in grant management and compliance management preferred.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and database management tools; experience with GIS preferred.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Detail-oriented with exceptional organizational and project management abilities.