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Community Economic Development Jobs in Connecticut

Town of Berlin

Economic Development Director

Berlin, CT · On-site

$90K - $115K/yr

Job Title : Economic Development Director Hours: (35) per week Union Affiliation : Middle ... Maintains a community calendar of events, coordinates with the Mayor and Town Council on outreach ...

Town of Berlin

Economic Development Director

Berlin, CT · On-site

$90K - $115K/yr

Job Title : Economic Development Director Hours: (35) per week Union Affiliation : Middle ... Maintains a community calendar of events, coordinates with the Mayor and Town Council on outreach ...

Self Help

Branch Manager

Franklin, CT

Manage assigned branch toward a strong economic performanceincludingachieving branch goals and budgets; community relations and new business development; staffing branch operations; supervising and ...

City of New Haven

Capital Projects Coordinator

New Haven, CT · On-site

$104K - $134K/yr

... community groups and other agencies or boards relative to coordination of the project intent as assigned. * Other tasks as assigned by the City Engineer in collaboration with the Economic Development ...

Greater Danbury Chamber of Commerce

Be Seen First

Director of Operations and Member Engagement

Danbury, CT · On-site

$65K - $85K/yr

... of the business community • Strengthen Chamber engagement in regional economic development efforts • Represent the Chamber in a professional, positive, and partnership focused manner ...

Greystar

Community Manager - Darien Commons

Darien, CT · On-site

Provides input into the development of budget(s) for the property by analyzing and evaluating ... Gathers, analyzes, and interprets current market and economic trends that may impact the property ...

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All JobsCommunity Economic Development JobsCommunity Economic Development Jobs in Connecticut

Community Economic Development information

See Connecticut salary details

$29.5K

$98K

$147.4K

How much do community economic development jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for community economic development in Connecticut is $98,002.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,500.00 and $118,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is community economic development?

Community economic development (CED) is a process where local communities take action to stimulate economic growth and improve the quality of life for their residents. This involves initiatives such as supporting small businesses, creating jobs, developing affordable housing, and fostering local leadership. CED often emphasizes collaboration among residents, local organizations, and government to address economic challenges and create sustainable, inclusive growth. The goal is to empower communities to drive their own economic futures while addressing social, environmental, and economic needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Community Economic Development, and why are they important?

To thrive in Community Economic Development, you need expertise in economic analysis, project management, and stakeholder engagement, often supported by a degree in economics, urban planning, or public administration. Familiarity with data analysis software, GIS tools, and grant writing platforms is typically required. Strong communication, cultural competency, and leadership skills distinguish top professionals in this field. These qualifications enable effective collaboration and sustainable solutions that drive economic growth and community well-being.

What is the difference between Community Economic Development vs Economic Development Specialist?

AspectCommunity Economic DevelopmentEconomic Development Specialist
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in urban planning, public policy, or related fieldsSimilar credentials, often with additional certifications in economic analysis or project management
Work EnvironmentFocuses on local communities, nonprofits, government agenciesWorks in government, consulting firms, or economic development agencies
Employer & IndustryLocal governments, community organizations, non-profitsMunicipalities, economic development agencies, consulting firms
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in community-focused projectsExploring careers in economic growth strategies

Community Economic Development and Economic Development Specialist roles share similar credentials and work environments but differ in focus. Community Economic Development emphasizes local community projects and nonprofit collaborations, while Economic Development Specialists often work on broader economic growth strategies for municipalities or agencies. Both roles aim to promote economic prosperity but target different scopes within the industry.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in Community Economic Development roles and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Community Economic Development often encounter challenges such as limited funding, balancing diverse stakeholder interests, and navigating complex regulatory environments. Success in this role requires strong communication and negotiation skills to build consensus among community members, local businesses, and government agencies. Proactively seeking out grant opportunities, fostering collaborative partnerships, and staying informed about economic trends can help address these challenges and drive sustainable development projects.
What are popular job titles related to Community Economic Development jobs in Connecticut? For Community Economic Development jobs in Connecticut, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Community Economic Development jobs in Connecticut look for? The top searched job categories for Community Economic Development jobs in Connecticut are:
What cities in Connecticut are hiring for Community Economic Development jobs? Cities in Connecticut with the most Community Economic Development job openings:
Community Economic Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Community Economic Development job openings in Connecticut as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,002 per year, or $47.1 per hour.

Economic Development Director

Town of Berlin

Berlin, CT • On-site

$90K - $115K/yr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Economic Development Director
Hours: (35) per week
Union Affiliation: Middle Management
Salary Range: Group C, $90,324 - $115,472 annually
Function: Under the direction of the Town Manager, oversees and administers the Town's economic development program. This includes real estate acquisition; special projects related to economic development, real estate, and other development projects; as well as grant writing and administration. Spearheads economic development, real estate and special projects that require interdepartmental coordination.
Typical Duties, Responsibilities, Tasks & Assignments:
  • Plans, directs, and administers all aspects of the Town's economic development and real estate functions. Leads real estate and related development agreement negotiations at the direction of the Town Manager. Recommends Departmental policies, projects, and procedures. Performs duties as Staff Liaison to the Town's Economic Development Commission and confers with the Town Manager and the Economic Development Commission concerning ongoing and future projects. Prepares Town Council agenda items and attends Town Council meetings and meetings of other Boards and Commissions, as needed.

  • Develops and maintains an inventory of available commercial and industrial real estate and markets the Town's economic development opportunities and responds to media questions and inquiries. Manages local business retention programs to develop and grow businesses.

  • Assists the Town Manager and other departments in the research, preparation and acquisition process for grants, some of which are in excess of $1 million. Provides oversight and grant management as necessary.

  • Works in conjunction with the Town Manager to establish and oversee a project management system for the Town's priority capital projects. Oversees the management of programs, including tax abatements, infrastructure loans and grants, and façade grants. Provides technical assistance to all other Town Departments and/or Divisions engaged in capital projects particularly in the areas of real estate and grants.

  • Under the direction of the Town Manager and Corporation Counsel, oversees and administers the Town's real estate acquisition activities for economic development, open space and for other governmental purposes. Serves as ombudsman for development projects, ensures due diligence and participates in property development activities as required.

  • Plans, develops and implements short and long range strategic initiatives for economic development including recommendations for zoning amendments to support economic development. Develops and presents strategic capital budget plans and administers ongoing budget.

  • Develops and maintains effective working relationships with local businesses, developers, state and federal government officials, colleagues and the public and consistently displays tact and professionalism, in an effort to continually develop Berlin as guided by the Economic Development Commission.

  • Leads efforts to promote economic development through social media and public engagement. Maintains a community calendar of events, coordinates with the Mayor and Town Council on outreach and recognition activities, and organizes ribbon cuttings, anniversaries, and related events.

  • Coordinates with various Town departments, regional partners, and private entities to advance housing and community development initiatives, including the development and preservation of affordable housing.

  • Supports and facilitates Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) projects, brownfield redevelopment efforts (including the identification, application for, and administration of related grants).

  • Collaborates with the Arts & Culture Committee and other community stakeholders to enhance quality of life and economic vitality.

  • Performs other related duties as assigned.

Special Skills & Requirements:
Bachelor's Degree with a minimum of 5 years of related experience or equivalent preferred. Strong leadership and communication skills required. Must possess a working knowledge of economic development; including governmental programs, real estate negotiation, contracts, and land use regulatory issues. Knowledge and experience in obtaining and administering grants including grants in excess of $1 million. Comprehensive technical and practical knowledge of the materials, methods and techniques relative to local economic development issues. Working knowledge of a variety of computer software programs including data collection and spreadsheets. Knowledge of municipal government processes and organization. Must possess the ability to work independently, to lead interdepartmental initiatives involving economic development, real estate and capital projects.

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