Neighborhood Development Specialist presso City of Norfolk, VA

About the Department

The Department of Neighborhood Services promotes the social, physical and economic resilience of Norfolk communities by engaging residents, neighborhood organizations and businesses and working with them to improve the quality of life in their neighborhoods.

The Bureau of Neighborhood Engagement focuses on:

• Encouraging and supporting civic participation,
• Community partnerships,
• Accessibility to city services,
• Developing organizational and leadership capacity within resident organizations

The Neighborhood Development Specialist will be responsible for community engagement and program implementation.  Work involves active listening, effective communication, and facilitation skills to build capacity, trust, and strong working relationships with residents, neighborhood organizations, and City staff. 

Position Duties

Essential functions include but are not limited to:
 

• Assists in developing and implementing various initiatives aimed at building neighborhood capacity.
• Provides technical support to community groups and assists with neighborhood strategies and goals.
• Provides support to senior bureau staff by drafting presentations, marketing materials, maps and other supporting documentation to be presented at civic league and task force meetings and NBN Academy classes.
• Serves as liaison between citizens and City Hall by helping residents navigate City departments and associated processes.
• Works with interdepartmental teams, including Community Resource Officers, Norfolk Cares staff, Neighborhood Quality, and Department of Planning to develop strategies to address community issues.
• Conducts community outreach to residents, neighborhood-based organizations, including non-profits and faith-based organizations to promote events and activities.
• Links residents and organizations to existing programs and services in the community.
• Establishes and maintains relationships with other agencies and organizations to develop community cohesion and social capital.
• Assists in the planning and organization of special events and workshops.
• Attends weekend and evening public meetings and activities as required.

Minimum Qualifications

Work requires broad knowledge in a general professional or technical field. Knowledge is normally acquired through four years of college resulting in a bachelor's degree or equivalent.

One-year experience in community development, community engagement, community outreach, and/or implementation of housing programs and services for individuals and families.

The preferred candidate will possess major college coursework in Public Administration, Urban Studies, Human Services, Sociology, or other related areas of study.  In addition, the preferred candidate will possess at least two years of experience in community development, community engagement, community outreach, or housing programs and services.

Other Qualifications

• Valid driver's license