Supervised by: Director of Community/Economic Development
GENERAL SUMMARY:
The City of Benton Harbor, Michigan is working to restore and revitalize its waterfront areas, with a focus on Ox Creek. The City is seeking a Project Manager and Community Engagement/Outreach Specialist that would under the general direction of the City Manager's office and Economic Development Director, be responsible for managing various waterfront restoration and revitalization projects within the City as assigned, including but not limited to coordinating infrastructure, community development, and public works. This position will also serve as a primary point of contact for building and engaging a coalition of stakeholders to support the successful implementation of city projects to restore and revitalize Ox Creek and the connecting waterways.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
- Develop and implement project plans and timelines for various city waterfront projects with project partners, including budget and resource allocation.
- Serve as a community champion and advocate for the Ox Creek restoration and revitalization vision.
- Coordinate with internal departments, external partners, and contractors to ensure timely and efficient project delivery.
- Conduct stakeholder analysis and develop and implement engagement strategies to cultivate and maintain relationships with community organizations, businesses, and residents.
- Organize and facilitate community meetings, forums, and events to gather input, disseminate information, and build support for city projects.
- Develop and implement a fundraising strategy to achieve city project vision and goals.
- Write and administer/manage grants which includes preparing grant reports, tracking budgets and workplans, requesting proposals, drafting bid specifications, bids and managing subcontractors.
- Develop and distribute project-related communications materials, including newsletters, press releases, and social media content.
- Responsible for compliance with applicable Federal, State, and other regulations, specifications, and timely reporting requirements to funding agencies and to the Manager/CD Director.
- Serve as a liaison between the Manager's and Economic Development offices and city departments, and the community to address concerns, questions, and feedback related to Ox Creek and assigned city projects.
- Monitor and evaluate project progress and adjust plans as needed to ensure successful outcomes.
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
- Bachelor's degree in project management, urban planning, public administration, environmental science or related field and a minimum of 3 years of experience in project management and community engagement/outreach, preferably in a municipal setting.
- Knowledge of project management principles and methodologies.
- Ability to think strategically and be action oriented.
- Excellent facilitation, communication and interpersonal skills. Demonstrated knowledge of inclusive engagement practices and demonstrated ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders. Experience working with the public.
- Knowledge or demonstrated willingness/aptitude to learn about ecological restoration and/or experience with green infrastructure projects.
- General understanding of challenges and climate change vulnerabilities faced by coastal communities in the Great Lakes.
- Strong organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and project management software.
- Understanding of local government operations and procedures. Ability to accomplish projects independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
- Ability to work weekends and weeknights for meetings and special events.
- Knowledge of the City of Benton Harbor is helpful.
- Ability to lift 20-25 pounds and other required abilities such as walking, standing, lifting, sitting, climbing, grasping, bending, stooping, standard hearing and vision (corrected), good keyboarding or typing skills, etc.
SALARY AND BENEFITS:
Salary for this position will be based on experience and qualifications. The City of Benton Harbor offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plan, paid time off, and professional development opportunities.
Application review will begin on August 21, 2023