Job Opportunities

Oakes Enhancement, Inc

Part Time

Contact: Haley Moen
Phone: 701-710-0383
Email: aobrien@drtel.net

Economic Development Liaison

Oakes Enhancement, Inc.

Part-time (15 to 25 hours per week)

Local, in-person flex role, reporting to OEI Board of Directors

IF INTERESTED Please submit a cover letter and resume to Audrey OBrien at aobriendrtel.net putting ED Position in the subject line. The cover letter should be addressed to the OEI Board of Directors.

OAKES ENHANCEMENT, INC. MISSION STATEMENT

Oakes Enhancement, Inc. OEI shall create an environment that stimulates commercial, industrial, and residential growth and development while enhancing the quality of life in the greater Oakes, North Dakota trade area.

ABOUT THE ROLE

This position supports the coordination of OEIs programs, funding tools, and partner relationships. The role serves as a primary point of contact for individuals, entities, and businesses seeking information or assistance through OEI. It requires a working understanding of OEIs programs, familiarity with how local projects typically advance, and the ability to connect projects with appropriate resources and partners. The work is relationship driven and coordination focused, with an emphasis on clear communication, follow-through, and sound judgement.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Program and Project Coordination

• Serve as the main contact for OEI funding and incentive programs
• Explain program options clearly to businesses and partners
• Meet in person with business owners, developers, and community partners once a project is identified
• Help clarify project needs and next steps
• Connect projects to lenders, grant writers, and public partners as appropriate
• Track program use, project status, and general outcomes
• Share observations with the Board regarding program effectiveness and community needs

Funding and Grant Coordination

• Stay informed on funding opportunities relevant to the area
• Help match projects with appropriate funding sources or outside expertise
• Coordinate with external grant writers and partners
• Track progress at a high level so timelines and responsibilities are understood

Strategic and Community Support

• Help translate Board priorities into practical actions
• Identify opportunities to improve or expand funding tools when needs arise
• Help connect interested individuals or organizations to OEIs strategic goals
• Clearly explain OEIs purpose and programs to partners and the public
• Help keep basic program information up to date on city website and work with local organizations to coordinate informational media posts

WHO THIS ROLE FITS

This role is well suited to someone who:

• Is comfortable with regular in-person interaction and public accessibility
• Works effectively with a wide range of people and organizations
• Understands how funding, incentives, and local projects come together
• Exercises sound judgment and follows through on commitments
• Works independently and stays organized

EXPERIENCE AND BACKGROUND

• Experience in economic development, finance, project coordination, nonprofit work, banking, business ownership, or related fields
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills
• Practical understanding of funding tools and incentives
• The individual may be scheduled to attend relevant trainings, workshops, or conferences to support onboarding, strengthen coordination skills, and build regional relationships.

Education is considered alongside experience. Relevant professional experience may substitute for formal education.

WORK DETAILS

• Part-time schedule of 15 to 25 hours per week
• Compensation: 24,000 to 32,000 annually, based on experience and agreed in-person public availability. Compensation within this range reflects the number of scheduled in-person public office hours per week.
• Occasional local or regional travel
• Valid drivers license required

IN ONE LINE

You help OEIs programs, partners, and projects move forward through clear communication and coordination.

FIRST 60 DAYS

During the first 60 days, the OEI Economic Development Liaison will focus on gaining a working understanding of OEIs programs, current projects, strategic priorities, and key partner relationships. This period will include introductions to local businesses, community leaders, regional organizations, and relevant public officials, along with review of funding tools and attendance at initial Board meetings to become familiar with OEI processes and expectations. By the end of this period, the individual should be prepared to serve as a knowledgeable point of contact and begin contributing clear updates and observations to Board discussions.