Job Title: Director of Trade & Economic Development of Port of Umatilla
Job Summary
The Port of Umatilla operates under a Legislative mandate to diversify the economy and expand trade in the State of Oregon. The Director of Trade & Economic Development is responsible for developing, implementing, and managing strategic initiatives that promote business recruitment, retention, expansion, and trade development. This position serves as a key liaison between the Port, businesses, government agencies, economic development organizations, and community stakeholders to foster sustainable economic growth, create living-wage jobs, and expand Umatilla County’s tax base.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
- Develop and implement the Port’s trade and economic development strategies.
- Identify and respond to economic opportunities and challenges for land development of the Port’s industrial properties. All leads and inquiries will be directed to the Director of Trade & Economic Development for follow-up.
- Retain and support existing businesses by identifying expansion opportunities and available resources.
- Build and maintain relationships with local, state, federal, and tribal partners to promote economic development initiatives.
- Represent the Port at industry conferences, trade missions, business forums, and community events.
- Identify, pursue, and administer grants and funding opportunities that support economic development projects. (Ie: Business Oregon)
- Collaborate with businesses to facilitate domestic and international trade opportunities.
- Prepare reports, presentations, and recommendations for the Port Commission regarding economic development activities and performance on a monthly basis.
- Coordinate marketing and promotional efforts to attract investment and increase awareness of the Port’s assets and services. This would include updating and developing the Port’s web site.
- Perform other duties assigned by the Port Commission or General Manager.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Economics, Public Administration, international business, Planning, Marketing, or a closely related field. Equivalent education and experience may be considered.
- Five or more years of progressively responsible experience in economic development, trade, public administration, or a related field.
- Knowledge of economic development principles, business recruitment, site selection, and international trade.
- Strong project management, organizational, and strategic planning skills.
- Excellent written, verbal, and public presentation skills.
- The ability to build productive relationships with public officials, business leaders, community organizations, and industry stakeholders.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Strong leadership and interpersonal skills.
- Strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities.
- Financial and budget management experience.
- Grant writing and grant administration experience.
- Negotiation and partnership development skills.
- Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.
Work Schedule
This is a full-time, exempt position. Occasional evening meetings, overnight travel, and weekend work may be required.
Compensation
Salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience. The Port of Umatilla offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, PERS Retirement, Holidays, Paid Time Off, and professional development opportunities.
Equal Opportunity Employer
The Port of Umatilla is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating an inclusive workplace. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected status under applicable law.
Applicants for this position will be an “At Will” employee.
DEADLINE
Resumes are due by 4:00 p.m. local time on August 7, 2026, by mailing to the Port of Umatilla, P.O. Box 879, Umatilla, Oregon 97882 marked “To the Attention of Personnel Committee.”