Poweshiek Iowa Development (POW I-80) Apprenticeship

The Organization

POW I-80, housed in the Community Center in downtown Grinnell, is the economic development organization for the city of Grinnell and Poweshiek County.  POW I-80 works closely with the county's seven incorporated municipalities, the county government, and the county's nonprofit and commercial interests to facilitate development in communities and along the interstate corridor, with a focus on industrial and commercial development, business retention and expansion, and assistance to startups.

POW I-80 oversees the Grinnell Renaissance Board, which administers façade improvements and beautification projects in downtown Grinnell.  POW I-80 also performs clerical administration for the Greater Grinnell Development Corporation, a for-profit development corporation which facilitates the industry park in south Grinnell.  POW I-80 also administers a loan fund for new or expanding businesses in Poweshiek County.   Additional information about this organization is available at the POW I-80 website. 

The Job

This Apprentice will serve as a Marketing Coordinator.  Specific job responsibilities will include:

  • Assisting with and attending Board of Director Meetings.
  • Developing marketing pieces such as brochures, flyers, registration forms and invitations.
  • Helping with the planning and staffing of Educational Luncheons, Seminars, and Business Trade Shows.
  • Assisting in writing and editing sales and marketing materials, which include articles, presentations, and other pieces.
  • Working closely with local radio stations, newspapers and other media outlets in issuing press releases, and possibly partake in an interview.
  • Attending Grinnell Renaissance meetings (7:00 am once a month)
  • Basic office duties; answer phones and greet clients.
  • Writing blogs and news updates to website  (www.powi80.com).
  • Writing articles for the quarterly E-Newsletter.
  • Updating and managing database of available buildings and sites.

Specific Requirements

The ideal candidate will have:

  • Excellent written and computer skills.  Must have knowledge of Excel, Word, and Publisher. Must have knowledge of creating labels, name badges, and mail merge.
  • Website maintenance experience is a plus.
  • Work well with broad spectrum of the public.
  • Ability to work on highly confidential projects.
  • Work independently with supervision.
  • Willingness to work some evenings and early mornings.
  • Must be very responsible and dependable.
  • Ability to be flexible doing creative projects as well as mundane work.
  • Reliable transportation is helpful but not required.