SUMMARY
The Downtown Staten Island Project Manager supports the Staten Island Chamber of Commerce in advancing the revitalization and long-term sustainability of the Downtown Staten Island commercial corridor. This position plays a key role in facilitating the formation of a new Business Improvement District (BID) and implementing related programs that strengthen local businesses, improve the physical environment, and increase district visibility and investment.
The Project Manager serves as the primary point of contact for business owners, property owners, community partners, and City agencies, coordinating projects that enhance economic vitality and support local business development. The role requires a highly motivated, organized, and community-focused professional with strong communication, planning, and stakeholder engagement skills.
RESPONSIBILITIES
BID Formation and Stakeholder Engagement
- Lead outreach and engagement efforts related to the creation of a Downtown Staten Island BID.
- Coordinate and facilitate stakeholder meetings, surveys, and outreach sessions with merchants, property owners, and residents.
- Develop presentations, meeting materials, and correspondence to support BID formation and education.
- Support the Steering Committee, prepare meeting notes, and ensure deliverables are tracked and completed.
- Serve as liaison to BID formation consultants and NYC Department of Small Business Services (SBS) staff.
- Maintain accurate contact databases and records of outreach and correspondence.
- Oversee drafting BID plan documents and supporting materials for City approval.
Commercial District Revitalization
- Coordinate with partners on projects that enhance the physical appearance, cleanliness, and safety of the district.
- Oversee sanitation, beautification, and streetscape improvement programs—including vendor management, procurement, and performance monitoring.
- Collaborate with City agencies to address quality-of-life concerns impacting the corridor.
District Marketing and Public Awareness
- Work with Chamber staff, consultants, and vendors to design and implement district marketing campaigns that increase visibility for local businesses.
- Oversee execution of district banners, seasonal lighting, or wayfinding programs.
- Coordinate content and updates for the Downtown Staten Island website (www.downtownSI.nyc) and related social media platforms.
- Support event planning and promotional activities that draw foot traffic and highlight local businesses.
Small Business and Economic Development Support
- Serve as a point of contact for local merchants, providing information on City and Chamber programs, grants, and technical assistance.
- Support the administration of storefront improvement or façade grant programs and similar business assistance initiatives.
- Assist businesses with applications, vendor selection, and compliance requirements.
- Identify and refer businesses to Chamber programs, the Small Business Resource Network (SBRN), and Chamber on the Go services.
Administration and Reporting
- Track and report progress toward program goals and milestones; assist with grant reporting requirements.
- Maintain detailed project files, budgets, and correspondence.
- Provide monthly updates to the Chamber President & CEO and other stakeholders.
- Represent the Chamber at community meetings, public hearings, and outreach events.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor’s Degree in Urban Planning, Economic Development, Business Administration, Public Policy, Marketing, Communications, or a related field required. Equivalent combination of education and relevant experience may be considered.
- 2–4 years of experience in commercial revitalization, economic development, community engagement, marketing, or business assistance preferred.
- Familiarity with Business Improvement Districts (BIDs), Local Development Corporations (LDCs), or similar public-private partnerships strongly preferred.
- Excellent written and verbal communication, facilitation, and presentation skills.
- Strong project management and organizational skills; ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace, and social media platforms.
- Experience working with small businesses, community groups, and public agencies.
- Sound judgment, diplomacy, and the ability to work collaboratively with a wide range of stakeholders.
- Fluency or proficiency in a second language (such as Spanish, Mandarin/Cantonese, or Arabic) is a plus.
- Valid driver’s license and access to an automobile required.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
This is a part-time, grant-funded position requiring occasional evening and weekend availability for community meetings and events.
CHAMBER CULTURE OF COLLABORATION
- Solve problems creatively, take initiative to achieve results, meet deadlines, and maintain a positive attitude.
- Communicate effectively and professionally, both verbally and nonverbally.
- Consistently demonstrate honesty, integrity, and respect for others.
- Establish and maintain positive relationships with Chamber staff, members, and community partners.
- Maintain sensitivity to professional ethics and cultural diversity, treating all people equally and respectfully.
- Demonstrate a high level of personal accountability and commitment to the Chamber’s mission.
Compensation:
This is a part-time position, approximately 20 hours per week.
Hourly rate: $35 – $45 per hour, commensurate with experience.
In accordance with the New York City Pay Transparency Law, the Staten Island Chamber of Commerce provides this pay range in good faith as the compensation we reasonably expect to offer for this role. Actual compensation will depend on qualifications, experience, and the scope of work performed.
Benefits:
This position is part-time and does not include health insurance or paid leave benefits, though flexible scheduling and professional development opportunities may be available.
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY STATEMENT
The Staten Island Chamber of Commerce is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.