Senior Business Development Specialist

Frederick County Government, through its Office of Economic Development, seeks a Senior Business Development Specialist to help grow the county’s Advanced Manufacturing sector from an on-site role in Frederick, Maryland. The position centers on engaging with existing manufacturers, supporting retention and expansion, and leading targeted attraction and ecosystem initiatives that strengthen the local economy.

Location: Frederick, MD (onsite)

Salary: USD 77,434 - 131,638 per year

Responsibilities

• Build and sustain relationships with manufacturers, industry groups, educational partners, and local, state, and federal agencies
• Design and implement business retention and expansion programs to help local advanced manufacturing firms grow and stay competitive
• Serve as the primary point of contact for advanced manufacturing companies seeking help with expansion, workforce, permitting, incentives, financing, and operational challenges
• Perform research and analysis on labor markets, demographics, commercial development, workforce needs, economic indicators, and industry activity to inform strategy and client services
• Provide one-on-one consultations to identify needs, connect companies to resources, and facilitate problem solving
• Prepare tailored responses to site selection RFPS using detailed research, data analysis, and targeted marketing materials, including permitting, incentives, grants, recruitment support, and strategic partnerships
• Coordinate and oversee prospect visits and site tours for companies considering Frederick County locations
• As needed, craft incentive packages and assist in negotiating incentive agreements; coordinate with the Maryland Department of Commerce and other entities on financial assistance, grants, loans, and workforce development packages
• Collaborate with developers and the County Planning and Permitting Department to advance commercial development projects and coordinate fast-track permitting when possible
• Recommend commercial or industrial sites or buildings for expansion and attraction by evaluating location requirements and business needs
• Work with media to highlight Frederick County’s business base, manufacturing growth, success stories, and competitive advantages
• Prepare customized proposals, reports, and presentations for business development and research projects
• Maintain and leverage databases, CRM systems, websites, and reporting tools to track projects, client engagement, outcomes, and performance metrics
• Represent the County and department at meetings, conferences, networking events, business visits, public outreach activities, and community engagements
• Collaborate with the FCOED Marketing team to develop and implement marketing plans and promotional materials to attract and retain businesses
• Support Made in Manufacturing initiatives and events such as Lunch, Learn and Tour, promoting industry partnerships and related activities
• Prepare reports and assist in managing program budgets; monitor performance, produce statistical and operational reports, and recommend improvements to support goals
• Stay informed about emerging industry trends, workforce development practices, regulatory requirements, funding opportunities, and local economic conditions
• Attend and participate in local, regional, state, and national industry events, conferences, and committee meetings
• Deliver public presentations to diverse audiences, including business leaders, elected officials, community organizations, and industry groups
• Provide guidance, training, technical assistance, or project leadership to staff, partners, interns, or stakeholders related to specialized program areas
• Perform other related duties as required

Benefits

• 11 vacation days with increases after two years of service
• 15 sick days with unlimited annual carryover
• 11 paid holidays plus two floating holidays (attendance differences may apply for 10- and 11-month employees)
• Day 1 access to a comprehensive Medical Insurance Plan with generous County Health Savings Account contributions for high-deductible plan enrollees, plus Dental, Vision, and Flexible Spending options
• Employee Health Center offering no- or low-cost primary and urgent care
• County-paid life insurance equal to two times annual salary plus AD&D coverage
• Vesting after five years of service
• Additional service credit for eligible prior public or military service
• Defined Benefit Pension Plan funded by the county and employees
• Work-life balance programs including an Employee Assistance Program and an Employee Wellness Program
• Generous Tuition Reimbursement
• Other voluntary benefits such as Deferred Compensation, Legal Resources, Supplemental Life Insurance, Critical Illness, Accident, Hospital Indemnity, and Long-Term Care provisions

Examination Process

• Evaluation of training and experience
• One or more interviews

Supplemental Information

• Employees in this classification are designated as Non-Essential
• Must have the ability to provide own transportation to meetings
• Willingness to work varied hours, including evenings and occasional travel, to accommodate meetings and commitments