Opportunities
1. Economic Development Coordinator 1 - City of Grand Rapids
Salary: $81,698.00 - $104,244.00 Annually
Location: City Hall, 300 Monroe Ave. NW, Grand Rapids, MI
Job Type: Permanent
Job Number: 717-0226
Department: Economic Development
Opening Date: 02/18/2026
Closing Date: 3/18/2026 11:59 PM Eastern
Nature of Work
The purpose of this job is to manage and administer various tax abatement and tax increment financing programs. The majority of time is dedicated to supporting projects for the Grand Rapids Brownfield Redevelopment Authority. Provides guidance and assistance to businesses, developers, property owners, and citizens, and acts as a liaison with other City departments and partner agencies. Seeks out and implements special programs (i.e. grants), and researches and develops new programs to promote economic development, whether implemented by the City, or a partner organization through a contractual relationship.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
The intent of this job description is to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities performed by employees in this job. Employees may be requested to perform job-related tasks other than those specifically presented in this description.
- Manages and implements the core programs of the Economic Development Department, including various tax abatement programs as authorized by State Legislation, with primary focus on Brownfield redevelopment projects
- Responds to inquiries from, other municipalities requesting information and citizen inquiries regarding specific projects
- Evaluates opportunities for grant funding to support business development; writes grants; directs utilization of grant funds; provides oversight to administrative staff for financial administration and reporting requirements of grants
- Reports on progress and outcomes of departmental programs and initiatives
- Performs program evaluation and identifies process improvement; participates in program modifications and/or policies to align with City priorities
- Participates in the formation of budgets for the department, including related boards and authorities
- Prepares a variety of correspondence and reports related to the work; assists with special projects; maintains records and statistics; attends a variety of meetings
- Performs related work as required
Minimum Training and Experience
Required Education and Experience
- Bachelor's degree in business or public administration, urban planning or related field
--AND--
- Three (3) years of professional experience related to economic development
--OR--
- Any equivalent combination of training, education, and experience that provides the required skills, knowledge, and abilities
We Offer:
- Medical, Dental, and Vision starting on Day 1
- 6% employee 401a contribution with employer matching (6% or 7% based on bargaining unit)
- Employee & Employer contributions to Retiree Health Savings Account
- Voluntary benefits such as term life insurance, flexible spending accounts, accidental insurance, disability insurance, and deferred compensation plan options
- Twelve Paid Holidays
- Paid Vacation and Sick Time
- Paid parking (if applicable)
- Employee Home Ownership Incentive
- Tuition Reimbursement and professional development opportunities
- Paid Parental Leave
- Employee Assistance Program with free mental health counseling
- Comprehensive Wellness program with a health and wellness incentive
- Employee Discounts and Perks
Should an applicant need any disability related accommodation or other consideration in the application or selection process, please notify the human resources department upon submittal of application
The City of Grand Rapids does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy or gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factor.
Apply Now:
Click here for more information and to apply.
Please Note:
This position is subject to the provisions of the applicable collective bargaining agreement and all relevant civil service rules. For additional information, links to union agreement and Civil Service Rules are provided below.
2. Planner - City of Dearborn
Location: Dearborn Administrative Center - Dearborn, MI 48126
Salary Range: Minimum: $59,178.00 Salary/year
Position Type: Full Time
**Position will typically hire at minimum pay and follow a step progression to maximum**
DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF WORK:
This position is responsible for performing planning tasks associated with the City master plan. Responsibilities may include assisting in establishing plan components; analyzing data; and assisting in conducting field surveys.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Assists in establishing land utilization, highway plan, residential, commercial and industrial development, public facilities, and related components of the City master plan.
- Researches, compiles, and analyzes land use, retail development, and related information; prepares maps, graphics, statistics, written presentations, and other materials to outline research and study findings.
- Assists in conducting field surveys to collect land development information.
- Assists in the development of zoning plans.
- Demonstrates regular and predictable attendance, including attendance at required meetings.
This job description is intended to represent only the key areas of responsibility; specific position assignments will vary depending on the business needs of the department.
Qualifications
EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING:
Bachelor’s degree in Planning or related field and 2 years of related experience; or, Associate’s degree and 3 years of related experience; or, all required certification(s) and 3 years of related experience; or, an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job, such as those listed above.
NECESSARY SPECIAL QUALIFICATION:
Valid State of Michigan Driver’s License
PARTS AND WEIGHTS OF THE EXAMINATION:
Oral: 100%
POST-EMPLOYMENT OFFER REQUIREMENTS:
Satisfactory completion of a background check and a drug screen that tests for illegal drugs as defined by the Federal Drug Free Workplace Act, but not those legalized under Michigan law.
TO APPLY:
Click here for more information and an application.
3. Senior Economic Development Assistant - City of Dearborn
Location: Dearborn Administrative Center - Dearborn, MI 48126
Salary Range: Minimum: $56,361 per year
Position Type: Full Time
**Position will typically hire at minimum pay and follow a step progression to maximum**
GENERAL DESCRIPTION:
This position is responsible for assisting in the research, development, and implementation of community development programs. Responsibilities may include identifying potential funding sources; leading projects; preparing reports; and analyzing data.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Essential Job Functions (Functions essential to attaining job objectives):
- Researches, recommends, and implements various programs and policies related to rehabilitation and improvement of properties; assists in developing various economic development programs.
- Identifies funding sources and prepares grants for development projects.
- Leads development projects, including: assigning staff roles; monitoring project progress; and performing related tasks.
- Collects and analyzes economic, community, and related data to assist in community development efforts.
- Prepares reports outlining program efforts and progress.
- Coordinates plans and programs with related departments to ensure efficiency and effectiveness of operations.
- Demonstrates regular and predictable attendance, including attendance at required meetings.
- Coordinates and participates in ceremonial and promotional activities.
This job description is intended to represent only the key areas of responsibilities; specific position assignments will vary depending on the business needs of the department.
Qualifications
EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING:
- Associate’s degree in a related field and one year of related experience; or, High School Diploma or equivalent (G.E.D.) and 3 years of related experience; or, all required certification(s); or, an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job, such as those listed above.
- Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration or related field preferred; TIF experience beneficial.
LICENSING REQUIREMENTS:
Valid State of Michigan Driver’s License
POST EMPLOYMENT OFFER REQUIREMENTS:
Must satisfactorily complete medical examination and criminal history check prior to start date.
TO APPLY:
Click here for more information and an application.
4. Planning and Zoning Manager - City of Dearborn
Location: Dearborn Administrative Center - Dearborn, MI 48126
Salary Range: $95,081.00 Salary/year
Position Type: Full Time
**Positions typically hire at minimum and follow step progression to maximum**
DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF WORK:
This position is responsible for the comprehensive administration and supervision of planning and zoning activities within the city. This position acts as an advisor to the Planning Commission, supervises planning and zoning staff, develops planning policy, recommends ordinance amendments, oversees and manages the development and execution of the City’s Master Plan, Transportation Studies, and Housing Studies. It is expected that the position will present to the City Council as needed regarding planning and zoning recommendations during Mayor Briefings, Committee of the Whole, and City Council Meetings.
TYPICAL CLASS ESSENTIAL DUTIES:
- Supervises staff, including prioritizing and assigning work, coordinating staff training, and supporting personnel procedures.
- Provides recommendations to all levels of City leadership on all matters related to city planning and zoning.
- Prepares amendments and recommends changes to the Zoning Ordinance to the Planning Commission, City Council, and Mayor.
- Responsible for the development and execution of planning policy documents such as the Master Plan.
- Manages the City’s site plan review process, including reviewing developments for compliance with Zoning Ordinance regulations.
- Administrative lead and staff support for the Planning Commission and Zoning Board of Appeals.
- Demonstrates regular and predictable attendance, including attendance at required meetings.
This job description is intended to represent only the key areas of responsibility; specific position assignments will vary depending on the business needs of the department.
Qualifications
EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING:
Bachelor’s degree in Regional and Urban Planning, Urban Studies, City Planning, Urban Design or directly related field and 5 years of related experience; or, an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job such as those listed above.
LICENSING REQUIREMENTS:
- Valid State of Michigan Driver’s License
- American Institute of Community Planners Certification
PARTS AND WEIGHTS OF THE EXAMINATION:
Oral 100%
DURATION OF LIST:
This list will be in effect for a period of six months.
POST-EMPLOYMENT OFFER REQUIREMENTS:
Satisfactory completion of medical examination and criminal background check prior to start date.
TO APPLY:
Click here for more information and an application.