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City of New Haven

Small Business Counselor

City of New Haven, New Haven, Connecticut, us, 06540

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Small Business Counselor

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City of New Haven The City of New Haven is seeking a dynamic and knowledgeable Small Business Counselor to join our Economic Development team. This role offers an exciting opportunity to support local entrepreneurs, small business owners, and aspiring self-starters by providing expert guidance in business operations, financing, marketing, and management. The ideal candidate will bring hands-on experience in small business ownership or management and a passion for helping others succeed. As part of our commitment to strengthening the local economy, the Small Business Counselor will work closely with the Deputy Director of Economic Development, Small Business, to deliver one-on-one counseling, community workshops, and strategic support to entrepreneurs across New Haven. This position is a chance to make a lasting impact by empowering businesses, fostering innovation, and contributing to the city’s growth.

Primary Functions

This position requires extensive knowledge and experience in business operations including marketing, management, personnel, financing and financial management. The counselor must provide advice and counsel, or refer the client to appropriate resources, on all aspects of business and must adapt the style of presentation to the person or audience, whatever the level of sophistication, education, or socio-economic status. Acting under the direct tutelage of the Deputy Director of Economic Development, Small Business, the candidate must possess the ability to learn new concepts and effectively communicate them to clients. The position may involve travel within the city and state. Eligible for Comp time pursuant to the current collective bargaining agreement.

Typical Duties and Responsibilities

Assist the Deputy Director of Economic Development, Small Business in the development and implementation of customized business instruction through local businesses, Chambers of Commerce, and other interested parties

Provide one-on-one counseling to area small business owners and those wanting to start a small business or self-employment venture

Develop methods of publicizing programs to attract clients and support from the community business and industry leaders

Assist in conducting, planning, and evaluating program activities

Possess and maintain current knowledge of research and trends that affect SBDC/DECD and its clients

Conduct online research on behalf of the Department and clients

Possess and maintain skills in business diagnosis, financial management, marketing, business start-up, franchising, and other areas of small business operation

Possess and maintain presentation skills for effective communication and teaching

Conduct client follow-up meetings to monitor their progress, and to discuss their specific needs

Maintain accurate records, develop and implement satisfaction reports for the evaluation of client success

Possess and maintain high proficiency in computer technology and business application software

Develop and maintain proficiency in office reporting procedures through selective cross-training with other state and local agencies

Attend professional training as required

Perform other duties assigned by the Deputy Director of Economic Development, Small Business.

Education, Qualifications & Experience Minimum Bachelor’s degree in a business discipline, or equivalent experience, with at least five years’ experience in managing a small business.

Knowledge, Experience, Skills & Abilities

Experience in business ownership is preferred.

Experience in small business banking, loan applications and SBA programs is a plus.

The successful candidate must demonstrate a proficiency in continued education, attending conferences, workshops, seminars and courses dealing with business issues.

The individual must demonstrate excellent written and oral communication skills, well developed interpersonal skills, and the ability to relate to a wide variety of personality types and educational levels.

Individual must be a self-starter, exhibit an ability to work with minimal supervision, and possess superior problem-solving skills.

Must be available to work a flexible schedule.

Must have own vehicle.

Salary, Bargaining Unit & Terms of Employment This is a "Special Fund," non-tested position. Continued employment contingent upon availability of future funding. Funding may be terminated at any time.

This position is included in a collective bargaining agreement with Local 3144, American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees. Bargaining agreements available to review HERE.

Special Funded employees shall not be covered by the City pension but shall continue to be covered by Social Security.

The City of New Haven does not sponsor employment visas. All applicants must have current authorization to work in the U.S. without employer-sponsored visa support.

Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of: (1) a pre-employment background check, (2) a pre-employment physical examination, including pre-employment drug screening in accordance with the City’s Drug Free Workplace Policy, and (3) a 90-day probationary period. Instructions and information on this pre-employment process are included in Conditional Offer of Employment.

Pursuant to the Federal Drug Free Workplace Act of 1988, The City of New Haven has adopted a Drug Free Workplace Policy. The City of New Haven requires a pre-employment drug test, which includes screening for marijuana.

Selection Plan Applications will be reviewed by the Department of Human Resources. Applicants must demonstrate that they meet the minimum requirements as listed within the job description; failure to do so may result in disqualification. It is critical that you complete the application thoroughly, as the information you provide will be used to ascertain if you are eligible to move forward in the selection process. Your application and resume should indicate that you meet the minimum requirements as listed. This information may be used to determine the eligibility list. Submissions may be evaluated prior to a posted closing date, and a hiring decision may be made prior to the removal of the job posting. Information regarding the employment and selection process can be found HERE. Please note that the only method of communication with applicants for this position will be by email. You must provide a valid, working email address and you will need to monitor your email, including spam/junk folders, for correspondence from the New Haven Human Resources Department. We reserve the right to extend an application deadline or close a job posting early to ensure we can attract and identify the best candidate(s) for a position.

Conclusion

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