Project Associate, Tech & New Media

Applicants MUST submit a cover letter with resume to be considered.

This position will require in-office presence. Hybrid work schedules may be possible based on specific job duties and consistent with ESD policy.

Minorities, women, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Please contact Human Resources if you require an accommodation.

Basic Function:

The Project Associate will support the Film Tech & New Media team focusing on economic research on in the digital game industry and workforce development in the creative and entertainment industries. The Project Associate will support the Project Manager, Sr. Project Manager, and VP with team projects that support the digital game industry, the CREW (Career Readiness Entertainment Workforce) Diversity Grant Program, workforce diversity initiatives, and assists with the execution of key industry partnerships and events and collaborating on the creation and implementation of new programs and policies related to the Film, Arts, and New Media sectors.

Work Performed:

• Conduct in-depth economic research on the digital game industry within New York State, identifying growth opportunities, competitive landscapes, and international trade opportunities/delegations.
• Monitor and summarize competitive digital game tax credits and financial incentives from other regions.
• Track the growth and activity of the NYS digital game industry, including the number of studios and their engagement with Empire State Development.
• Monitor and summarize external trends, policy shifts, and political developments impacting the film, tech, media, and related industries, providing concise summaries and strategic insights to the team.
• Support the NYS CREW (Career Readiness Entertainment Workforce) Diversity Grant Program, assisting with application processes, promotion, monitoring, and tracking recipient performance.
• Facilitate effective communication between grant originators, project managers, and internal ESD teams.
• Oversee and ensure the accuracy of all outgoing communications from the Film, Arts, & New Media team, including website content, newsletters, social media, and webinars. This includes rigorous copy-editing, fact-checking, and timely updates.
• Under direction, track and support relationships with external stakeholders in the workforce development field specific to film, tech, and new media.
• Provide direct, strategic assistance to the team as new tasks, projects, and priorities emerge.
• Support effective project coordination, including summarizing meetings, tracking deliverables, and fostering accountability within working groups.

Minimum Requirements:

Education Level Required: Bachelor’s degree. Associate’s degree with 7 years, direct relevant experience may substitute.

Relevant Experience required: 2+ years of relevant professional experience preferred. 

Knowledge Required:

• Experience in a research, project coordination, or administrative support capacity.
• Demonstrated experience working effectively within teams and assisting with the planning and execution of initiatives, ideally in public policy, economic development, technology, or business development.
• Experience with grant programs, data management, or external communications is a strong plus.
• Exceptional research, analytical, and critical thinking skills with the ability to interpret complex data and translate it into clear conclusions and actionable recommendations.
• Superior written and verbal communication skills, with a keen eye for detail and accuracy in copy-editing and fact-checking.
• Strong organizational and project management support skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• A firm understanding of economic development principles, state and local policy, and political matters.
• Familiarity with the digital game, film, or broader creative industries is highly desirable.
• Proactive, self-motivated, and collaborative team player.

ALTERNATE MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS FOR INTERNAL CANDIDATES: A minimum of 5 years of satisfactory service in another (relevant) position with Empire State Development. Up to 2 years of accredited post-secondary education, or service in the U.S. military may be substituted for service at ESD.