Project Specialist

Project Specialist

Do you want to make a real difference in the lives of West Virginians?

The Region VII Planning & Development Council (PDC) is seeking a highly motivated individual to join our team in Buckhannon, WV. As a vital part of our organization, you will play a key role in supporting community and economic development projects across our seven-county region. You will join an experienced team of professionals who are dedicated to making our region a better place to live and work.

About Region VII PDC

Region VII PDC is a quasi-governmental agency that works in partnership with local governments, organizations, and residents to strengthen communities across Barbour, Braxton, Gilmer, Lewis, Randolph, Tucker, and Upshur Counties. Region VII PDC is one of eleven regional councils in West Virginia. Established in the early 1970s, the councils were created to empower local communities and foster regional collaboration. Today, Region VII continues this tradition by providing technical assistance, grant-writing support, project development, and project management expertise to municipalities, counties, and non-profit organizations across its seven-county region. Region VII serves as development districts to more effectively utilize funding resources and maximize our communities’ chances of attracting funds from local, state, and federal organizations to foster community and economic development.

The Opportunity

The Project Specialist is an integral part of Region VII PDC’s project team. This position supports planning and development initiatives by helping move projects from early ideas through implementation. The Project Specialist works closely with staff, local officials, funding agencies, and community partners to coordinate projects, assist with grant development and administration, and ensure projects stay organized and on track.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone who is interested in public service, community development, and making a meaningful impact in rural West Virginia.

In this role, you will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including:

• Support the planning and coordination of community, infrastructure, and economic development projects.
• Assist with grant applications by gathering data, helping draft narratives, preparing budgets, and organizing required materials.
• Help track grant and project requirements, including reporting deadlines, performance measures, and documentation.
• Communicate and coordinate with local governments, utilities, consultants, and state and federal agencies.
• Collect, organize, and analyze data related to planning, infrastructure needs, and regional conditions.
• Prepare reports, correspondence, meeting materials, and presentations.
• Attend meetings, site visits, and community events throughout the Region VII service area.
• Provide general administrative and project support to staff as needed.
• Perform other related duties in support of the Council’s mission.

Why Work for Region VII PDC?

• Make a Difference—See the direct impact of your work on improving the quality of life in central West Virginia.
• Stable Environment—Enjoy the security and benefits of working for a quasi-governmental entity.
• Collaborative Culture—Be part of a team dedicated to working together for the greater good.
• Professional Development—Gain valuable experience in grant writing, project development, project management, and community development.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in business, planning, public administration, economic development, geography, political science, or a related field (or an equivalent combination of education and experience)
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to stay organized, manage multiple tasks, and meet deadlines.
• Comfort working both independently AND as part of a collaborative team.
• Ability to multi-task and adhere to timelines.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint).
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel, mostly within the seven-county region. Evening meetings will be required often.

Preferred Experience

• Working for or with a nonprofit, local, state, and/or federal government agency is a plus.
• Knowledge of state and federal funding programs.
• Preparing and writing funding applications.
• Knowledge of rural community and economic development.
• Knowledge of developing and/or managing publicly funded projects.

Salary and Benefits

Salary is commensurate with qualifications and experience. A comprehensive benefit package, including health (PEIA), dental, vision, and life insurance, participation in WV Public Employee Retirement System (PERS), and other voluntary retirement saving options available to full-time employees. Also, sick, vacation, and holiday time are available.

To Apply

Please submit your resume and cover letter to the Executive Director at swhitehair@regionvii.com. For more information about Region VII PDC, visit our website at https://www.regionvii.com/.

Join us and be a part of shaping a brighter future for central West Virginia!

The Region VII Planning and Development Council is committed to being an equal opportunity employer, and as such, it is the policy of the organization to select, develop, promote, transfer, demote, or terminate employees based on individual qualifications and abilities without regard to race, religion, color, sex, age, national origin, familial status, disability, veteran’s status, or any other status protected by law.