Economic Development Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Salary: $35.48 - $45.12 Hourly
Location : City of Corvallis, OR
Job Type: Full time regular employee
Job Number: 01466
Department: Community Development
Opening Date: 05/15/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
Position Summary
Support the work of the Corvallis-Benton County Economic Development Office. Serve as an account manager assisting prospective, new, and existing businesses on areas defined in the Economic Development Strategy. Conduct studies to develop business information and research issues that could impact economic development priorities. Assist in managing the conceptualization, adoption, and implementation of tools and policies to assist the City in its business development efforts. Manage consultant contracts and activities; develop work plans, timelines, and resource allocations for assigned projects. These tasks are illustrative only and may include other related duties.
Resume MUST be attached to the online application. Applications that do not include a resume will NOT be accepted.
Full-time 40 hours per week, AFSCME-represented position, 12-month probationary period
Must meet all qualifications and requirements as listed in the
The Economic Development Office (EDO) is helping businesses innovate, grow, and thrive in the Mid-Willamette Valley. Serving a diverse business population, ranging from high tech, food and beverage, and advanced engineering.
Essential Duties
Develops and implements a business retention and expansion program.
Serves as liaison between property owners, businesses, City officials, and others regarding economic development projects and programs. Performs functions such as visit local businesses and business prospects; researches, writes, and presents staff reports; manages projects; collects and analyzes data, and makes business presentations.
Assists with the development of policies that affect a healthy business climate and participates in City process to secure policy adoption.
Manages the development of marketing tools, including website and other social media marketing, to assist with business development, expansion, and retention efforts.
Creates workforce policies and tools to support businesses' hiring needs, and manages programs to assist small businesses, start-ups, and entrepreneurs in the Corvallis and Benton County area.
Serves as an account manager assisting businesses with an emphasis on areas defined in the Economic Development Strategy.
Manages consultant contracts and activities, develops work plans, timelines and resource allocations for assigned projects.
Assists in the development and implementation of an Urban Renewal Plan.
Acts ethically and honestly; applies ethical standards of behavior to daily work activities and interactions. Builds confidence in the City through own actions.
Conforms with all safety rules and performs work is a safe manner.
Operates and drives a motor vehicle safely and legally.
Adheres to all City and Department policies.
Delivers excellent customer service to diverse audiences.
Maintains effective work relationships.
Arrives to work, meetings and other work-related functions on time and maintains regular job attendance.
Qualifications and Skills
Education and Experience
Bachelor's degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, Economics or a related field which provides the knowledge to perform the essential functions of the position.
Three years of experience in business and economic development or planning; two of the three years experience in government, administration, project management or policy development.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Demonstrable knowledge of marketing methods for attracting and retaining businesses.
Strong interpersonal and dispute resolution skills, including the ability to confront challenging issues to help others work through complex issues. Ability to work independently, to research and design new programs.
Ability to design, coordinate and implement program requirements. Ability to learn and interpret City, county, state and federal policies and procedures, organize and present ideas and recommendations both orally and in writing.
Strong analytical, financial analysis and organizational skills. Ability to analyze and evaluate complex economic development data. Ability to develop innovative and creative solutions within broad principles and policies.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills using both technical and non-technical language, and the ability to gain trust, cooperation, and understanding
Ability to develop and manage building and land inventories and manage grant processes.
Ability to get along well and maintain and promote effective working relationships with coworkers, other government agencies, business owners and stakeholders.
Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise discretion and judgment in dealing with sensitive or confidential information.
Ability to use a computer for extended periods of time to perform the essential functions of the position. Ability to use spreadsheets and work processing applications, perform database management, use desk top publishing, GIS mapping tools and applications to perform the essential functions of the position.
Special Requirements
Demonstrable commitment to sustainability.
Demonstrable commitment to promoting and enhancing equity, diversity and inclusion.
The individual shall not pose a direct threat to the health or safety of the individual or others in the workplace.
Possession or ability to obtain a valid Oregon Drivers License.
Travel among City worksites, off-site meetings and presentations.
Ability to pass a pre-employment background and/or criminal history check.
How to Apply
Qualified applicants must submit an online application located on the (click on "Apply" above). Position is open until filled with first review of applications on June 8, 2026. Resume MUST be attached to the online application; however, resumes will not be accepted in lieu of a completed online application. Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted/considered.
The City of Corvallis offers a comprehensive benefits package to employees and eligible dependents.
This position is represented by the