Business Assistance Specialist (Port Angeles, Port Townsend)

Location: Port Angeles or Port Townsend, Washington

FLSA Status: Full-time, Exempt

Reports to: Executive Director

About the Organization

With a mission to empower the North Olympic Peninsula to pursue and invest in its own economic and environmental destiny, the North Olympic Peninsula Resource Conservation & Development Council is the regional Economic Development District for Clallam and Jefferson counties. The NODC produces a comprehensive economic development strategy for the region, acts as a convener on issues affecting the area, supports economic development in key sectors and develops projects to fill gaps.

About the Position

Under the supervision of the Executive Director, the Business Assistance Specialist provides technical assistance on e-commerce and online marketing to businesses in Jefferson and Clallam County suffering losses due to impacts of Covid-19. The Specialist helps businesses assess their current online presence and develop plans for effectively increasing their e-commerce capabilities and online marketing. This may include assisting businesses with web site development, set up of a shopping cart, development of order fulfillment processes, and/or creation of social media accounts and marketing plans. In addition to demonstrated expertise with various web and social media platforms, this position requires the ability to coach business owners with varying technology skills so that they can be successful. The Business Assistance Specialist will also refer businesses to appropriate consultants as needed. Strong marketing and technology skills and excellent communication skills are a must. The ability to work independently and accomplish tasks with minimal supervision is required. This is a grant-funded position expected to last two years.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Other duties, responsibilities, and activities may be assigned at any time with or without notice.

Field inquiries from businesses seeking assistance and conduct needs assessment.

Meet with business owners/managers to evaluate their current online marketing efforts (if any) and their skill and comfort level with technology.

Work with businesses to develop marketing plans, web sites and social media tools to help them meet their goals.

Provide coaching and training to help businesses develop the skills necessary to maintain web sites and social media presence.

Refer businesses to consultants for web design and marketing assistance as appropriate.

Develop strong relationships with Chambers of Commerce, Economic Development Corporations, the Small Business Development Center and other business and economic development providers to establish a strong mutual referral network.

Conduct outreach at Chamber events and other meetings to inform businesses about the services available.

Maintain excellent records of all contacts, meetings with businesses, referrals and completed projects for purposes of reporting to partners and funders.

Participate in NODC staff meetings.

Position Requirements

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Bachelor’s degree in a related field. Technical training and experience may substitute for degree.

Minimum of 5 years professional experience in web site development, marketing, business advising or similar field.

Demonstrated experience and success at development of e-commerce sites and online marketing.

Demonstrated proficiency with various web site development platforms and with social media management.

Proficiency with word processing, spreadsheet and presentation software; familiarity with Apple Macintosh platform preferred.

Excellent communication ability in written and spoken English.

Ability to work independently and manage time efficiently.

Must live in Jefferson or Clallam County, Washington, or be willing to relocate.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

This position has no supervisory responsibilities.

Education and/or Experience:

Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field. Minimum of five years of professional experience in similar position.

Certificates, Licenses, or Registrations:

None required.

Computer Skills:

To perform this job successfully, an individual should have demonstrated skill and a high level of proficiency in the use of personal computers, web site development and Microsoft Office software. Familiarity with Apple Macintosh computers and platform preferred.

Physical Demands:

While performing the duties of this Job, the employee is sometimes required to lift and/or move up to 20 pounds. The employee is regularly required to sit for long periods of time; use hands to file and manage paperwork; bend and reach with hands and arms; and talk and hear. Occasionally required to stand for long periods of time, stoop, kneel, squat, and crouch.

Work Environment:

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally exposed to rural work environments and outdoor weather conditions. After hours and weekend work and may occasionally be required. Regular job-related travel within the two-county region and occasional travel outside the area.

To Apply:

Send resume, cover letter and 3 references by September 25, 2020.

NODC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to building a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives and skills. Women, people of color and members of the LGBTQ+ community are encouraged to apply.