About the Department

The City of Springfield is accepting applications for the unclassified position of Small Business Specialist!

The Small Business Specialist supports the City’s efforts to grow the local economy through business retention, expansion, attraction, and small business development initiatives. Working under the Economic Development Manager, this role serves as a liaison between the City, businesses, developers, and regional partners, with responsibilities such as program coordination, business outreach, data tracking, and resource connection.

Position Duties

Economic Development & Business Support

Assist with implementation of economic development strategies and initiatives.
Serve as a point of contact for businesses, with a focus on small and minority/female-owned businesses.
Conduct business retention and expansion outreach.
Support business attraction efforts with data and site information.
Maintain accurate records and track outcomes to support a data-driven approach.

Small Business Engagement

Assist with workshops, outreach, and small business programming.
Work with business clients on bidding procedures, bid specifications, bid submittal, contract award, administration, technical assistance, and joint venture development.
Connect businesses to financial and technical resources.
Promote City programs, certifications, and funding opportunities.
Identify barriers and recommend process improvements.

Program Support & Reporting

Track participation and maintain program records.
Assist with reports, dashboards, and performance metrics.
Support compliance with applicable requirements.
Help develop public-facing materials and communications.

Community & Partner Coordination

Coordinate with partners (e.g., SBDC, Greater Springfield Partnership, Dayton Development Coalition, OhioMeansJobs etc.)
Assist with events, meetings, and community engagement.
Build and maintain relationships with businesses and stakeholders.

Research & Administrative Support

Conduct research on economic trends and opportunities.
Prepare reports, presentations, and materials.
Support grants, incentives, and project tracking.
Perform all other job related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in a related field or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Must possess and maintain a valid Ohio driver's license and meet and maintain insurability under the City's insurance plan.
One to three years of relevant professional experience preferred.

Other Qualifications

Knowledge of economic development principles and local government operations.
Strong written and verbal communication, organizational, and analytical skills.
Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
Experience with coding or a willingness to learn is preferred.
Experience working with diverse stakeholders.
Detail-oriented, collaborative, and service-driven.
Comfortable in a data-driven, accountability-focused environment.

Join a collaborative, results-driven team dedicated to supporting Springfield’s growth and strengthening our community. We value accountability, data-informed decision-making, teamwork, and continuous improvement. This is a fast-paced, mission-driven environment where your work will have a direct impact on the City's success. If you are motivated, team-oriented, and passionate about making a difference, we encourage you to apply!

Applications will be reviewed as they are received, and the position may be filled at any time. To ensure full consideration, early submission is strongly encouraged.

Benefits

: HEALTH BENEFITS
Employees pay 15% of the monthly medical insurance premium through Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, which includes prescription coverage. Single and family coverage is available. The City health care plan is a high deductible healthcare plan. You will become eligible for medical insurance on the first of the month following your start date, or on your start date if you start on the first of the month.

HEALTH SAVINGS ACCOUNT
Each year the City deposits 75% of your health insurance deductible amount into an HSA account in your name if you participate in the annual wellness screening. If you choose not to participate in the wellness screening, the City will deposit 50%.

DENTAL
The City pays half of the full premium up to a maximum of $30 per month for dental.

LIFE INSURANCE
The City pays 100% of the premium for term life insurance to all active permanent, full-time employees. Hourly employees receive $15,000 of coverage; salaried, professional, and management employees receive $50,000.

RETIREMENT PENSION
The City contributes 14% monthly toward retirement benefits offered through the Ohio Public Employee Retirement System (OPERS). The employee’s share is 10% of their gross salary.

RETIREMENT SAVINGS
You have the option to enroll in a voluntary retirement savings plan, such as a 457(b) deferred compensation plan or Roth IRA.

VACATION
New full-time employees receive 80 hours of vacation upon hire. Following six months of service, you receive an additional 24 hours. At one year of service, you accumulate vacation at a rate of 0.0769 per hour, or 20 days per year.

SICK LEAVE
All employees accrue sick leave at the rate of 0.0575 hours per hour, or approximately 15 days per year.

PERSONAL LEAVE
After six months of service, you receive two personal days, or 16 hours, per year.

HOLIDAYS
The City observes 13 holidays per year.

FITNESS CENTER
You have 24/7 access to a fitness center located in City Hall. The center includes a variety of commercial equipment including cardio and resistance machines and free weights.

EXPERIENCE PAY
Experience Pay will start after 5 years of service, which grants additional compensation to employees who have completed five or more years of total service with the City.

TUITION REIMBURSEMENT
All permanent full-time employees are eligible to participate in the City's Tuition Reimbursement plan, provided they have at least one year of continuous service with the City and it is subject to policy terms and conditions.

Agency Information

Employer: City of Springfield, Ohio
Department: City Manager's Office
Address: 76 E High Street

Springfield, Ohio, 45502
Phone: 937-324-7318
Website: https://springfieldohio.gov/