Regional Economic Development Specialist

Role Responsibilities

The Regional Economic Development Services unit of the Regional and Northern Economic Development branch provides a suite of services at the local and regional level across Alberta. The unit plays a leadership role in fostering collaboration and networks while gathering intelligence across multiple economic sectors and regions, furthering local and regional efforts to economic development opportunities (e.g. agriculture and agri-food, forestry, energy renewable energy, Indigenous economic development, visitor economy, etc.).

The Regional Economic Development Specialist position reports to a Manager who reports to the Director, Regional Economic Development Services unit. The Regional Economic Development Specialist provides economic development program knowledge and expertise as well as some technical expertise to support the development and growth of regional economic activity. The intent of the function is to assist stakeholders in capturing and benefiting from economic development opportunities. Coordination and leadership are provided to engage regional organizations and stakeholders, to align common elements of their vision to that of the province.

Collectively, Regional Economic Development Specialists also synthesize a provincial view of community and regional economic development achievements, opportunities and challenges to inform policies, strategies, decisions and directions taken by department leaders.

Please click on this link to view the job description for this position.

APS Competencies

Competencies are behaviors that are essential to reach our goals in serving Albertans. We encourage you to have an in depth understanding of the competencies that are required for this opportunity and to be prepared to demonstrate them during the recruitment process.

This link will assist you with understanding competencies: https://www.alberta.ca/system/files/custom_downloaded_images/psc-alberta-public-service-competency-model.pdf.

To effectively fulfill the responsibilities of the Regional Economic Development Specialist role, the following competencies are essential:

• Develop Networks: Ability to foster a climate of cooperation amongst and build solid relationships with public agencies, government, committees and other partners.
• Agility: Demonstrated ability to manage and adapt to change. Ability to manage human, financial and physical resources within an operating environment.
• Build Collaborative Environments: Strong track record in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Systems Thinking: Effective leadership abilities combined with a strong commitment to operating within a team environment and the ability to motivate and inspire others to achieve common goals.

Qualifications

Minimum Recruitment Standards

University graduation in a related field (such as Commerce, Economics, Economic Development, Public Policy, Community or Rural Development), supplemented by a minimum of 4 years related experience, preferably in economic development, small business or entrepreneurship support, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Combined years of experience and individuals with certificates/diplomas may also be considered.

Equivalency: Directly related education or experience considered on the basis of:

• 1 year of education for 1 year of experience; or
• 1 year of experience for 1 year of education.
  
  

For application consideration, you must attach a cover letter explaining your qualification and suitability for this role.

The following knowledge, skills or experiences are considered as assets:

• Well-developed interpersonal stakeholder engagement and facilitation skills.
• Extensive knowledge of economic development processes and practices.
• Extensive knowledge of public and not-profit sector programs applicable to economic development and how it has the potential tobenefit the region.
• Detailed knowledge of Alberta's economic base and key issues that face Alberta's local and regional economies and business communities.
• Well-developed research, analytical, and problem solving skills to interpret key economic and regional business indicators, and to develop appropriate responses and processes to maximize economic and business growth.
• Knowledge of provincial and federal legislation, policies, and programs/supports related to economic and business development.
• Knowledge of land use planning and development principles and research.
• Strong writing, verbal and communication skills.
• Knowledge of best practices in fostering multi-stakeholder cooperation and relationship building in economic development with a variety of stakeholders who can have competing or non-aligned interests.
• Lives in the North Central Alberta service region and has a well established network of stakeholders.
  
  

Minimum recruitment standards outline the minimum education and experience required for appointment to a job classification. Refer to https://www.alberta.ca/alberta-public-service-minimum-recruitment-standards.

Notes

This is a permenant, full-time position, working 36.25 hours per week, Monday to Friday.

Must have a valid class 5 license astravel throughout the region is required around 50-75% of the time.

Candidates are required to submit resume and cover letter that succinctly demonstrates their qualifications against the job requirements, including education, experience, and relevant competencies. It’s important for applicants to ensure their resume and cover letter clearly articulate how their past work experiences align with the role’s qualifications and needs.

Resumes must include precise employment dates (month and year) to assist in assessing attention to detail skills.

The final candidates for this position will be asked to undergo an academic check, references, may need to provide a suitable security screening and may be asked to complete a written exercise and/or assessment.

Any costs associated with obtaining the required documents/checks as noted or interview travel expenses, will be the responsibility of the candidate.

Links and information on what the GoA has to offer to prospective employees:

• Working for the Alberta Public Service - https://www.alberta.ca/advantages-working-for-alberta-public-service.aspx.
• Public Service Pension Plan (PSPP) - https://www.pspp.ca.
• Alberta Public Service Benefit Information - https://www.alberta.ca/alberta-public-service-benefits.
• Professional learning and development - https://www.alberta.ca/professional-development-support-directive.
• Research Alberta Public Service Careers tool - https://researchapscareers.alberta.ca.
• Positive workplace culture and work-life balance.
• Leadership and mentorship programs.