CRA Specialist - Community Redevelopment Agency Division

TARGET ENTRY SALARY: $62,120 - $65,226

OPEN UNTIL FILLED

Under administrative direction, the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) Specialist performs highly responsible administrative support for the Community Redevelopment Agency in the research, development, and implementation of CRA plans, programs and projects.

THIS RECRUITMENT IS FOR THE COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT DIVISIONEssential Functions: -- Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include any of the following representative duties, knowledge, and skills. Essential duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following:

Community Redevelopment Division

• Collaborates with staff in the development and implementation of redevelopment and economic development plans, projects, programs, policies, procedures, and standards.
• Provides highly skilled administrative support and analysis for the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) and Downtown Development Board (DDB); carries out department directives, initiatives, and programs relative to all facets of the position and the needs of the CRA department.
• Receives general public, government officials, reporters, and organizations on all levels; disburses information pertaining to department procedures and policies and processes confidential matters; refers questions to appropriate employees or departments when warranted.
• Responsible for tracking economic development and benchmarking measurements and conducts field evaluations and observation of existing public patterns; compiles, drafts, and prepares comprehensive reports, applications, inventories, presentations, proposals, collateral materials, surveys and other documents. 
• Makes arrangements for conferences, meetings, and events; manages and determines space, time, and place; informs participants of topics and development issues to be discussed; compiles documents, reports, and other information. 
• Assist with the evaluation of social, economic, demographic, and market data to analyze best means to attract, retain or expand businesses and/or industries within the redevelopment areas.
• Assists with business and resident inquiries as one of the primary points of contact for economic development and redevelopment projects, programs, and general customer service; assists in the administration of residential, commercial, and other grant programs. 
• Assists, supports, analyzes, and facilitates the coordination of all budgetary and financial systems for the department; assists, in the development and implementation of management, processing, and administrative systems.
• Works closely with divisions and other departments in maintaining the support systems and providing information regarding departmental operations. 
• Serves as liaison between the CRA and other City department staff, federal, state, and local agencies, and other third parties on assigned projects; participates in public meetings.
• Works a varied schedule including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Performs routine office work other duties as assigned.

Licenses, Certifications, and Equipment:
A valid State driver’s license is required.

Education and Experience:
Associate's Degree PLUS three (3) years’ experience in business administration, public administration, marketing/communications, urban planning, urban design, journalism, English or a related field; OR an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience may be considered. Knowledge of – 

• Urban planning, downtown, community development and neighborhood redevelopment practices
• Florida Community Redevelopment Agencies and Downtown Development Boards/Authorities
• Social, demographic, economic, and market data
• Best practices for creating vibrant, urban environments 
• Principles and practices of project management, performance measurement, budget preparation, negotiating methods, and community outreach
• Community outreach and information program development
• Record keeping, report preparation, filing methods, and records
• General office policies and procedures; computers and general office equipment
• Equipment maintenance practices and methods

Skill in – 

• Establishing and developing strong and professional relationships
• Communicating clearly and concisely both orally and in writing
• Operating a computer with intermediate level proficiency in document and file management, word-processing, database management, and internet and email usage
• Speaking to the public and presenting information to a variety of stakeholders
• Maintaining composure in stressful situations 
• Responding quickly in a fast-paced environment
• Developing and maintaining relationships with local media
• Project management