MONTGOMERY COUNTY GOVERNMENT Code No. 4436

ROCKVILLE, MARYLAND Grade 18

CLASS SPECIFICATION

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST I

DEFINITION OF CLASS:

This is beginning level, professional business and economic development work involving the maintenance and expansion of existing businesses, the attraction of new business, and supporting the viability of the agricultural industry in order to enhance the economic prosperity of the County. Contacts are with Departmental staff and staff of other governmental agencies to provide, exchange, and clarify discrepancies in information and data; and present and discuss ideas and concepts. Employees in this class provide little or no direct public service or assistance.

An employee in this class provides business development support services through research and exchange of information and data, and through participation with more experienced Business Development Specialists in meetings with and presentations to business development clients. A supervisor provides continuing or individual assignments, indicates generally what is to be done, and expectations concerning the finished product. The employee utilizes initiative in carrying out recurring assignments, and receives specific instruction for new or unusual work. The employee is expected to employ resourcefulness and ingenuity in conducting research and compiling information, and in recommending methods of presentation. Complexity of the work derives from determining, reviewing and analyzing clients’ needs in order to provide the most useful information, data, approach, or other service. The work involves carrying out a range of conventional assignments within the business development field. The work is primarily sedentary, usually performed in a normal office setting, and not normally associated with any unusual hazards or physical demands.

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES: (Illustrative Only)

Conducts research and analysis, compiles information and data, and prepares reports for use by Departmental staff, business development clients, and staff of other governmental agencies.

Attends meetings with and presentations to business development clients to assist with presentations by more experienced Business Development Specialists, and to gain experience.

Attends presentations to government officials and citizens’ groups where County programs and services are explained.

Serves on contract selection panels.

Performs related duties as required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Experience: Some (1 year) experience performing professional level economic development work.

Education: Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor’s degree in business administration, economics, or a related field.

Equivalency: An equivalent combination of education or experience may be substituted.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Some knowledge of marketing techniques; real estate principles, practices, and valuation; land contract and lease methods and practices; and/or banking principles.

Knowledge of the methods of statistical analysis, and skill in interpreting research data.

Ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing, and to prepare clear and concise reports.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, staff of other government agencies, and with representatives of groups, task forces, and associations.

Ability to attend meetings and perform work assignments at locations outside the office.

PROBATIONARY PERIOD:

The probationary period must be 12 months for a full-time or part-time employee appointed to a merit system position and 6 months for a promoted employee, during which time work performance will be carefully evaluated. Continuation in this class will be contingent upon successful completion of the probationary period.

MEDICAL PROTOCOL: Medical History Review

Class Established: September 1999(M)