Economic Development Manager

Economic Development Manager

Under the direction of the Assistant City Manager, administers and supervises the development and implementation of the City's redevelopment and other economic development programs; including marketing, financing, negotiation of agreements, site analysis, business recruitment, assistance, and retention.

This single position classification reports to the Assistant City Manager and administers, coordinates, and manages the Economic Development Division in accordance with City Council Actions and applicable laws and regulations. The incumbent will serve as a community liaison / City representative to City staff, elected officials, other government agencies, developers, brokers, potential investors, businesses, and residents. Incumbent is expected to develop methods and procedures and to solve problems encountered.

This posting will close January 13th, 2026 or when 100 applications are received, whichever occurs first.

Develops goals, objectives, policies, and priorities in the area of economic development.

Conducts and completes complex administrative research, studies, reports, and surveys.

Develops qualitative and quantitative measures to monitor, ensure, and evaluate programs and projects.

Oversees the administration of contract compliance.

Provides written analysis, evaluation, and recommendations regarding redevelopment and economic development services.

Designs, coordinates, markets, implements, and maintains and monitors economic development programs for the City.

Negotiates agreements and contracts.

Acts as adviser and liaison with business groups and other public jurisdictions.

Provides guidance and expertise to potential developers, brokers, companies, and investors.

Preparation of the division budget and the expenditure of funds.

Identifies, manages, and administers grant funding and other resources for economic development services; oversees the administration of grants, including managing of grant proposals, applications, reporting requirements, budgeting, and payments.

Prepares and writes staff reports and other reports.

Makes presentations to City Council, commissions, and civic or professional groups, as requested.

Prepares, publishes, presents, and maintains a variety of reports, including financial reports and records, in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.

Conducts complex studies and related research.

Monitors and evaluates the efficiency and effectiveness of service delivery methods and procedures.

Meets with City staff to identify and resolve problems.

Coordinates with other City departments to ensure mutual cooperation in achieving goals and objectives.

Responds to public inquiries, concerns, and complaints in a courteous manner.

Researches and advises on implementation of evidence-based practices and measurable outcomes.

Any combination training, education and experience with demonstrates the ability to perform the duties of the position is qualifying.

A typical qualifying entrance background is graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, or a related field which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities and five (5) years of progressively responsible administrative and supervisory management experience with at least one (1)year of program management experience in a public agency. A Master's Degree in a related field is highly desirable.

Must possess and retain a valid California Class "C" Driver's License with a satisfactory driving record as a condition of employment.

Knowledge of : Principles and practices of public administration and contract management; Principles of public administration, finance, and economics; Marketing / Public Relations principles and practices; Research methods; report writing techniques; Grant writing and administration; Principles of team building and project management; Data tracking and performance measurement; Local government organizational structure, functions, and management; Principles and techniques of budget process and controls.

Skilled in : Planning, organizing, coordinating projects and initiatives; Exercising tact and good judgement; Providing effective leadership and building relationships; The use of a personal computer and relevant software applications such as Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook), and other applicable software programs.

Ability to : Effectively lead and manage staff; develop and implement goals and objectives, exercise sound judgment and demonstrate initiative; Project consequences of proposed actions and implement recommendations in support of goals; Conduct research and analyze data; Interpret and apply policies and procedures; Operate a personal computer and applicable software programs; Prepare comprehensive reports; communicate clearly and concisely both orally and in writing; Establish, maintain, and foster effective, positive relationships with business and community leaders, public officials, coworkers, and others contacted during work; Work effectively in time-sensitive situations meet deadlines, coordinate multiple projects and complex tasks concurrently; understand local community problems and recommend feasible solutions; make presentations to community groups, committees, and the like.

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this class. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this class, the employee is regularly required to communicate effectively verbally and in a written manner; observe and interpret data, and analyze and solve problems; work under changing and intensive deadlines with frequent interruptions; and interact with City officials, media, citizens groups, employees and others encountered in the course of work. The employee must be able to work indoor office environments / outdoor in the field environments (depending on position). The employee may have to move up to 50 lbs. and transport up to 10 lbs. objects frequently (depending on position). Vision abilities required by this job include the ability to detect, determine, perceive, identify, estimate, and assess work related objects and / or work products based on position specific designated tasks. The employee may be required to work evenings and weekends to complete assignments. Must be able to work a flexible schedule. Use of personal vehicle during employment may also be required.

This posting will close January 13th, 2026 or when 100 applications are received, whichever occurs first.

Candidates must clearly demonstrate through their application materials that they meet the employment standards outlined above. All properly completed applications will be reviewed, and the most appropriately qualified individuals will be invited to continue in the selection process. Examinations for the position may consist of any combination of written, performance, and oral exams to evaluate the applicant's skill, training, and experience for the position. Successful applicants will be placed on an eligibility list. The City may also merge lists. The selected candidate(s) must successfully complete pre-employment clearances which may include a physical, drug screen, and fingerprinting. The provisions of this announcement do not constitute an expressed or implied contract, and any provisions contained in the announcement may be modified or revoked without notice.

The City of Vista is an Equal Opportunity and ADA compliant employer. All qualified candidates and veterans are welcome to apply! Recruitment Closes - Tuesday, January 13th, 2026 or at 100 applications, whichever comes first Virtual Oral Board - Week of January 19th, 2026 Department Interviews - Week of January 26th, 2026

• Please note, all dates and / or timeframes are subject to change.

125 Hrs. - 1-5 years of continuous service 160 Hrs. - 6-9 years 180 Hrs. - 10-20 years 200 Hrs. - 21+ Administrative Leave 70 Hours annually (Management) Sick Leave 96 hours per year Holidays Employees working the 9 / 80 flex schedule are entitled to 99 hours of holiday leave per fiscal year. Excellent benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance programs. A portion of the employee's and dependent's premiums are paid by the City. The City offers comprehensive wellness programming to its employees including onsite wellness facilities and onsite wellness sessions. The City's Tuition Reimbursement Plan may assist employees in paying the cost of approved books and tuition for classes which relate to their job. Depending on eligibility, based on CalPERS criteria, new employees will be provided the 3% @ 60 Plan or newly established 2% @ 62 Plan. Employees currently contribute the entire employee contribution amount of 8%. The City does not participate in Social Security, but employees must be enrolled in the Medicare portion.