ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SUPERVISOR/EXPERT at State of Arkansas

Little Rock, Arkansas, United States -

Full Time

Start Date

Immediate

Expiry Date

07 Feb, 26

Salary

153907.0

Posted On

09 Nov, 25

Experience

10 year(s) or above

Remote Job

Yes

Telecommute

Yes

Sponsor Visa

Skills

Economic Development, Manufacturing Leadership, Consulting, Project Management, Lean Principles, Continuous Improvement, Supply Chain Optimization, Strategic Planning, Technology Adoption, Communication Skills, Analytical Skills, Problem-Solving Skills, Data-Driven Insights, Relationship Building, Emerging Technologies, Financial Analysis

Industry

Government Administration

Description

Position Summary The Economic Development Supervisor/Expert will serve as the Field Engineer, a high-impact consultant role within Arkansas Manufacturing Solutions (AMS), a national Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) center under Arkansas Workforce Connections. This dynamic position is responsible for driving transformative change for manufacturing clients by delivering strategic, operational, and technology-driven solutions that enhance competitiveness. With significant autonomy, Field Engineer collaborates with client leadership to improve operations, stimulate competitive growth, and shape the future of manufacturing in Arkansas. Key focus areas include operational excellence, leadership development, supply chain optimization, and smart manufacturing. This role offers a unique opportunity to lead high-impact initiatives with the agility of a top-tier consulting firm, while operating within the established framework of state and federal laws and agency policies. This position requires on-site employment with no remote or hybrid options available. Preferred Qualifications The formal education equivalent of a bachelor’s degree in engineering, business, manufacturing, or a related field; plus eight years of progressive experience in manufacturing leadership, consulting, or related areas, with a strong preference for candidates with plant management or higher-level leadership roles. Experience with emerging technologies (e.g., automation, Industry 4.0), advanced certifications like Lean Six Sigma Black Belt or PMP, a proven track record of leading transformative projects across diverse manufacturing sectors, and business acumen with C-suite engagement are highly desirable. Ability to drive innovation in manufacturing through expertise in lean principles, continuous improvement, supply chain optimization, strategic planning, and technology adoption. Strong project management skills to orchestrate complex, multi-faceted initiatives under tight deadlines. Exceptional communication skills, both oral and written, to inspire executive leadership and deliver compelling presentations to diverse audiences. Advanced analytical and problem-solving skills to diagnose challenges and craft high-impact solutions. Proficiency in leveraging data-driven insights and digital tools to enhance client outcomes. Expertise in building trusted relationships with clients, stakeholders, and third-party providers while thriving in diverse manufacturing environments. Job Responsibilities and Expected Results Evaluate client manufacturing operations to pinpoint competitive strengths and uncover transformative growth opportunities. Spearhead customized projects in areas like lean manufacturing, leadership development, supply chain optimization, or smart manufacturing, aligning with client strategic goals. Deliver high-impact consulting services directly or orchestrate third-party resources to achieve client objectives efficiently. Lead projects with precision, adhering to timelines, budgets, and reporting standards while driving measurable, transformative results. Champion innovative solutions, such as smart manufacturing or digital transformation, to position clients at the forefront of industry trends. Identify and pursue new client opportunities to expand AMS’s market presence and drive business growth. Serve as a trusted advisor to client executives, empowering leadership and fostering sustainable growth through strategic guidance. Perform other duties as assigned. Key Business Processes Conduct in-depth clients need assessments to identify strategic and operational improvement opportunities. Develop and execute tailored consulting projects in areas such as lean manufacturing, leadership development, supply chain management, or technology adoption. Deliver or oversee high-value consulting services to achieve outstanding client outcomes. Manage projects and complete reporting in accordance with AMS procedures and MEP standards. Enter and maintain accurate client and project information in Salesforce and/or other designated databases to ensure effective tracking and reporting. Cultivate and maintain strong client relationships to ensure sustained engagement and repeat business. Represent AMS at industry events, conferences, and client meetings to promote services and build the center’s reputation. Foster collaborative relationships with AMS colleagues and third-party service providers to deliver seamless solutions. Engage in continuous professional development to stay current on manufacturing trends, technologies, and best practices. Contribute to the evaluation and enhancement of AMS service offerings to meet evolving industry demands. Participate actively in staff meetings, industry conferences, and other relevant forums to advance AMS objectives. Position Information Job Series: Program Operations – Economic DevelopmentClassification: Economic Development Supervisor / ExpertClass Code: PED04PPay Grade: SPC07Salary Range: $103,991 – $153,907Job Summary The Economic Development Supervisor / Expert is a senior-level strategist and subject matter authority responsible for conceptualizing, designing, and executing large-scale economic development initiatives. This role provides high-level expertise by analyzing market trends, developing innovative growth strategies, and forging robust public-private partnerships. The supervisor / expert serves as a trusted advisor to governmental agencies, private enterprises, and community organizations, driving transformative projects that stimulate investment, reinforce local economic resilience, and secure long-term sustainable growth.Primary Responsibilities The assignment of supervisory duties is determined by the hiring agency's operational needs. Non-supervisory roles will serve as senior technical experts. Lead the formulation of comprehensive economic development strategies that align with pre-determined objectives. Oversee project lifecycle management from ideation, strategic planning, and implementation through to evaluation and continuous improvement. Develop long-term roadmaps that anticipate market shifts and emerging economic trends. Conduct advanced economic and demographic research, including feasibility studies and competitive analysis, to identify key growth opportunities. Leverage statistical models and data analytics to forecast economic impacts and support strategic decision-making. Cultivate and manage dynamic relationships with government officials, business leaders, and investors. Negotiate and secure multi-sector collaborations and funding opportunities, including grants, incentives, and public-private partnerships. Advise on policy reforms and regulatory frameworks that facilitate business development, job creation, and regional investment. Develop customized programs that enhance local competitiveness, promote entrepreneurship, and optimize resource allocation. Design and implement financial models to evaluate project return on investment, assess risk, and ensure fiscal sustainability. Identify and pursue varied funding mechanisms and investment channels to support economic initiatives. Represent the organization as a subject matter expert at industry conferences, workshops, and in media engagements. Mentor junior personnel and consultants, promoting knowledge sharing and best practices in economic development. Establish key performance indicators and rigorous reporting systems to track the progress of economic initiatives. Provide regular performance analyses and strategic recommendations to adjust project trajectories and achieve outcomes.Knowledge and Skills Ability to synthesize complex economic data and trends into strategic insights and actionable plans. Proficient in managing complex projects using contemporary project management methodologies and tools. Expertise in articulating complex ideas clearly through reports, presentations, and negotiations with a variety of assorted personnel. Strong capabilities in financial analysis, budgeting, and resource mobilization. Resourceful in developing innovative solutions to address multifaceted economic challenges. Demonstrated success in leading teams, mentoring peers, and functioning as a thought leader within the economic development sphere.Minimum Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, Community Development, Economics, or a related field.Minimum of 10 years of work experience in economic development, government, community planning, or project coordination.Experience coordinating projects or initiatives that involve collaboration between multiple entities, familiarity with local/regional economic trends, and a proven record of supporting business attraction or retention efforts.Experience in policy analysis, financial modeling, and public-private partnership development.Experience in successfully guiding large-scale initiatives that deliver measurable economic and community benefits.Satisfaction of the minimum qualifications, including years of experience and service, does not entitle employees to automatic progression within the job series. Promotion to the next classification level is at the discretion of the department and the Office of Personnel Management, taking into consideration the employee’s demonstrated skills, competencies, performance, workload responsibilities, and organizational needs.Licensure/Certifications N/A OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.

Responsibilities

The Economic Development Supervisor/Expert evaluates client manufacturing operations to identify strengths and growth opportunities while leading customized projects in areas like lean manufacturing and supply chain optimization. This role also involves delivering high-impact consulting services and championing innovative solutions to enhance client competitiveness.