Economic Development Manager

City of Golden

Golden, CO United States

We are currently recruiting qualified applicants for Economic Development Manager. Come see why the City of Golden is the place you want to be!

Why work at the City of Golden?
Being a Golden employee is more than just a job—it’s a lifestyle. Golden is a vibrant outdoor community, making it a great place to live, work, and play.

Location, location, location – Work near great restaurants and shops, hit the trails, and enjoy the outdoor scenery of Clear Creek and the foothills. Convenient commuting from all directions.

Paid time off – Vacation starts at 16 days (over 3 weeks!), plus 12 sick days and 12 paid holidays annually.

Great benefits – The City matches up to 8% of your retirement contributions and offers a full range of benefits, including tuition reimbursement.

Position Overview
Under the direction of the Community Development Director, this role provides leadership for the Economic Development Department. Responsibilities include business retention, expansion, recruitment, and redevelopment.

The successful candidate will:

  • Serve as Executive Director for the Golden Urban Renewal Authority and Downtown Development Authority

  • Be the City’s representative to the business community and the primary contact for catalytic projects

  • Apply professional knowledge in research, analysis, planning, and implementation of economic programs

  • Oversee Economic Development Commission activities and supervise staff

The ideal candidate will have:

  • Specialized knowledge in business development and supporting catalytic projects

  • A high degree of professionalism and problem-solving skills

  • Strong relationship-building abilities and a customer service mindset

  • The ability to work effectively with a team and across departments

Job Summary
Manages day-to-day operations of the department and leads planning to achieve economic goals.

  • Develops annual action plans and identifies resource needs

  • Acts as liaison to City Council and economic development partners

  • Leads efforts on business engagement, support for small business vitality, and marketing the City's economic programs

  • Coordinates site visits, development proposals, and business community events

  • Responds to citizen inquiries and guides development applicants through City processes

  • Prepares reports, updates data, and monitors market trends

  • Collaborates with Planning and the Chamber of Commerce

  • Assists with budget preparation and other duties as assigned

Supervisory Responsibilities
Direct supervision of Economic Development staff, including hiring, training, development, and performance management.

Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in economic development, urban planning, marketing, business/public administration, or a related field.
Minimum five (5) years of experience in project management, planning, or community engagement, plus two (2) years of supervisory experience. Equivalent combinations of education and experience will be considered.

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations
Valid driver's license and good driving record required. AICP certification preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Strong communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills

  • Ability to manage projects independently and collaboratively

  • Public speaking and customer service experience

  • Ability to analyze financial and technical documents

  • Understanding of development trends, real estate, and employment data

Work Environment & Physical Demands

  • Regular use of a computer, phone, copier, and other office equipment

  • Occasional lifting (up to 25 lbs) and physical activity including walking and standing

  • Some work outdoors and moderate noise levels

The City of Golden is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Experience Level
Mid II (4-8 years)
AICP Level
--
Specialty
Economic Development and Revitalization
Salary Range
$89,488.00 - $107,386.00