Job Openings

Economic Development Specialist

The Economic Development Specialist will be at the forefront of driving CMGC’s mission and the region’s economic vitality, supporting and orchestrating impactful projects, municipal planning efforts, redevelopment activities, and innovation ecosystem programming. Key priorities will include business attraction and retention, workforce development, grant and incentive support, and stakeholder engagement.

The EDS will play a critical role in advancing public and private investment in Central Maine, working closely with CMGC leadership, municipal partners, and regional stakeholders to lead initiatives that generate measurable growth in employment, entrepreneurship, and tax base development. With a strong foundation in economic development and a focus on high-impact outcomes, the EDS will help CMGC sustain its momentum as a catalyst for regional transformation.

Operating with a high degree of independence, initiative, and creativity, the Economic Development Specialist will implement a broad and ambitious work program aligned with CMGC’s strategic goals. This is an exciting opportunity for a mission-driven professional ready to connect vision with action and make a meaningful impact across mid-Maine.

II. Duties & Key Responsibilities
Economic Development Strategy & Implementation:

• Design and execute strategies to attract new businesses and support the expansion of existing enterprises.
• Build and manage a pipeline of business prospects, emphasizing job creation, capital investment, and commercial space utilization.
• Conduct market research to identify trends, gaps, and new opportunities in regional economic development.
• Prepare and submit public-private and philanthropic grant proposals and contract applications.

Business & Entrepreneur Support:

• Provide technical assistance to local businesses and startups, including site selection, access to capital, and program navigation.
• Facilitate entrepreneurial ecosystem growth through CMGC’s Dirigo Labs accelerator and the SBIR/STTR Resource Center.
• Organize and support business development events, workshops, and incubator programming.

Workforce Development:

• Collaborate with educational institutions, training providers, and employers to identify workforce needs and align programming.
• Implement initiatives to address skills gaps through apprenticeships, customized training, and experiential learning partnerships.
• Drive workforce development outcomes for high-tech and innovation-driven sectors.

Municipal Planning & Redevelopment:

• Partner with municipalities on planning initiatives such as TIF districts, downtown revitalization, and housing development.
• Coordinate economic development-related community engagement, grant support, and strategic plan implementation.
• Support Brownfield assessment, cleanup, and redevelopment efforts.

Grants, Incentives & Investment:

• Identify and promote available incentives and financing tools to support business and development projects.
• Prepare investment packages and funding applications aligned with CMGC’s strategic objectives.
• Track and report on funding outcomes and private capital leveraged.

Marketing & Communications:

• Contribute to regional branding, promotion, and investor communications.
• Develop content for CMGC’s digital platforms, print materials, and public-facing initiatives.
• Represent CMGC at events, meetings, and stakeholder engagements.

Data Analysis & Reporting:

• Monitor project and program performance using data analytics and reporting tools.
• Prepare high-quality deliverables including proposals, performance reports, strategic plans, and monthly summaries.
• Maintain organized and up-to-date documentation and business resource inventories.

III. Position Requirements + About You
CMGC is seeking a passionate and results-oriented individual with a strong background in economic and community development. The ideal candidate will bring:

• Proven project management experience and ability to manage multiple priorities independently.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills and a track record of effective stakeholder engagement.
• Knowledge of economic development strategies, grant processes, and incentive programs.
• Familiarity with innovation ecosystems, small business support, or entrepreneurship programming.
• Strong analytical skills and experience using data to inform decision-making.
• Experience with municipal planning, real estate development, and/or public infrastructure projects is a plus.

IV. What We Offer

• Competitive compensation: $68,000–$80,000 annually, commensurate with experience, with performance-based bonus opportunities.
• Benefits package including health, dental, vision, short- and long-term disability, life insurance, retirement plans.
• Generous paid time off: 5 weeks PTO plus 16 paid holidays per year.
• Professional development and training opportunities.
• Flexible work environment with hybrid and remote work options based on performance.
• A mission-driven organization committed to creating measurable impact across the region.

V. Experience and Training

• Minimum of five years of experience in economic development, planning, or entrepreneurship support roles.
• Bachelor’s degree (or higher) in a relevant field such as community/economic development, business, planning, or public administration preferred.
• CMGC may consider a combination of experience and education.

To Apply:
Please submit the following materials:

• Resume or CV
• Cover Letter
• Writing sample (2–4 pages; e.g., press release, report, or policy brief)

Send to:
Central Maine Growth Council
50 Elm Street, Waterville, ME 04901
Or email to: director@centralmaine.org

No phone calls, please.