Community Economic Development Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Beartooth Resource Conservation and Development Area, Inc. (Beartooth RC&D)

Economic Development Job Description

Economic Development Director

Reports to: Executive Director

Classification: Permanent Full-time (Exempt Employee)

Position Summary

The Economic Development Director plays a key leadership role in advancing regional economic development across a five-county area. This position is responsible for administering state and federal economic development programs, supporting communities and businesses, coordinating long-term regional planning efforts, and working closely with local leaders and partners. The role requires strong communication, organizational, and strategic skills, as well as the ability to manage multiple projects and funding sources.

Program Responsibilities

This position serves as the primary administrator for two standing economic development programs funded by the State of Montana and the U.S. Department of Commerce, including:

• Certified Regional Development Corporation (CRDC) – State of Montana
• Economic Development District (EDD) – Federal Economic Development Administration

The Economic Development Director works closely with Beartooth RC&D staff to ensure effective coordination and delivery of all economic development programs and services.

Key Responsibilities

• Administer and manage EDD, CRDC, and other economic development grants and programs.
• Prepare required reports, compliance documentation, and annual grant applications.
• Lead the development, update, and implementation of the Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS), including annual updates and five-year revisions.
• Organize and facilitate CEDS Strategy Committee meetings and stakeholder engagement.
• Identify, develop, and assemble grant proposals for business development, infrastructure, and community development projects.
• Assist communities in assessing economic development and infrastructure needs and identifying funding opportunities.
• Provide technical assistance to businesses, communities, and regional partners related to funding programs, applications, and compliance.
• Collaborate with local, state, and federal partners to advance regional economic priorities.

Tasks and Duties

• Communicate regularly with county commissioners, municipal officials, and community leaders.
• Attend meetings with local governments, boards, and partner organizations.
• Respond to requests for assistance from existing and prospective businesses.
• Submit grant draw requests and track project and staff time allocations.
• Track invoices, expenses, and program documentation to ensure fiscal accountability.
• Provide technical assistance related to planning, financial resources, workforce development, training, and grant writing.
• Maintain organized program records and ensure compliance with grant requirements.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Minimum Qualifications

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple projects, and meet deadlines.
• Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency with basic office technology, including Microsoft Word, Excel, and email.
• Ability to work effectively with elected officials, volunteers, boards, and diverse stakeholders.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in economics, public administration, planning, business, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• Experience in economic development, community development, grant management, public administration, or nonprofit program administration.
• Familiarity with state and federal funding programs, including EDA or CRDC.
• Knowledge of the five-county region served by Beartooth RC&D.
• Experience working with regional planning efforts, advisory committees, or boards.

Compensation & Benefits

Salary of $48,000 - $55,000 per year commensurate with experience and qualifications. $600/month health insurance stipend, $75/month cell phone reimbursement, and 3% IRA match are additional benefits. Expanded responsibilities may include increased compensation.

Leadership & Advancement Opportunity

This position reports to the Executive Director and is expected to exercise a high level of professional judgment and initiative. For the right candidate, there may be an opportunity to assume expanded leadership responsibilities, including consideration for the role of Executive Director. Advancement would be based on organizational needs, qualifications, and performance and would include a corresponding increase in compensation.

Position Open Until Filled.