Jefferson County is actively recruiting for a key role that will shape its financial future. The newly created position of Finance and Grants Manager will be instrumental in managing the county’s budget and pursuing grant opportunities to support local initiatives.
This strategic hire comes as part of Jefferson County’s efforts to bring more services in-house and foster economic growth within the community. County Manager Douglas Baber emphasized the importance of this role in leveraging external funding to enhance local infrastructure and programs.
Expanding In-House Capabilities
The Finance and Grants Manager position marks a shift from outsourcing to developing internal expertise. Previously, Jefferson County relied on contractors for financial management, but this new role aims to establish a dedicated team within the county.
“We’re starting to create some jobs that are here in Jefferson County,” Baber stated. “The finance director position has been outsourced, and we’ve been using a contractor. I’ve asked the commissioners to bring that in-house, and they approved that for us to move forward with that.”
This transition is part of a broader initiative to bring more services in-house, including the recent hiring of an IT supervisor. By doing so, Jefferson County hopes to create higher-paying jobs and stimulate the local economy.
The Role of Grants in Community Development
Grants play a crucial role in supporting smaller communities like Jefferson County. They provide essential funding for projects that might otherwise be out of reach due to budget constraints. The Finance and Grants Manager will be responsible for identifying, applying for, and managing these grants to ensure that Jefferson County can continue to invest in its infrastructure and programs.
“Grants are particular; you have to monitor those grants, and you have to manage those grants, and you have to go after those grants,” Baber explained. “This position would not only be applying for grants throughout the community, but we’ll also be making sure that we’d get reimbursements for payments made.”
The position will also involve ensuring that the county receives reimbursements for eligible expenses, further maximizing the impact of grant funding.
Opportunities for Local Residents
Both the Finance and Grants Manager and Animal Control Director positions represent significant opportunities for local residents. These roles offer competitive salaries and the chance to contribute directly to the county’s growth and development.
“It’s a great opportunity here in Jefferson County,” Baber said. “We have the potential to hire a finance and grants manager as well as a process for an animal control director. Those are some pretty good-paying jobs here for Jefferson County, and we’re excited to have those opportunities.”
The county is eager to attract qualified candidates who are passionate about making a difference in their community. Both positions will remain open until filled, providing ample time for interested individuals to apply.
As Jefferson County continues to plan for future growth, the Finance and Grants Manager will play a pivotal role in securing the resources needed to support that vision. This strategic hire underscores the county’s commitment to fostering a thriving and sustainable community.
