ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Community Economic Development Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

HWC

Planner

New Albany, IN · On-site

HWC is seeking a Planner to assist Indiana and Kentucky communities in preparing and implementing long-range community and economic development strategies. As a key member of our New Albany planning ...

City Of Carmel

Business Outreach Specialist

Carmel, IN · On-site

$72K - $87K/yr

Two (2) or more years of experience in community engagement, economic development, government relations, business development, or a related field. * Experience working with or in local government is ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsCommunity Economic Development JobsCommunity Economic Development Jobs in Indiana

Community Economic Development information

See Indiana salary details

$29.5K

$98K

$147.5K

How much do community economic development jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for community economic development in Indiana is $98,030.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,600.00 and $118,500.00 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 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 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.

Is community economic development a good career path?

Community economic development is a viable career that involves planning and implementing strategies to improve local economies and quality of life. It often requires skills in project management, policy analysis, and community engagement, with opportunities in government agencies, non-profits, and consulting firms. Job stability and growth depend on regional funding and economic conditions.

What are popular job titles related to Community Economic Development jobs in Indiana?

For Community Economic Development jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Community Economic Development jobs in Indiana look for?

The top searched job categories for Community Economic Development jobs in Indiana are:

What cities in Indiana are hiring for Community Economic Development jobs?

Cities in Indiana with the most Community Economic Development job openings:

Community Economic Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Community Economic Development job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,030 per year, or $47.1 per hour.

Ecosystem Navigator, CISBDC

Butler University

Indianapolis, IN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

Butler University rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

480th of 620 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Position Overview

The Ecosystem Navigator at the Indiana Small Business Development Center (ISBDC) is a strategic role bridging the interests of the Indiana Economic Development Corporation's (IEDC) Entrepreneurship Team, ConnectIND portal, stakeholders, peer groups, and the SBDC team. The Navigator will work in tandem with Business Advisors and other key stakeholders to foster a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem. While reporting to the Center's Regional Director, the Ecosystem Navigator will also receive direction from the IEDC team, aligning efforts for maximum impact.

Responsibilities

  • Foster and enhance the entrepreneurial ecosystem by connecting ISBDC resources, ConnectIND portal, stakeholders, and peer groups.
  • Develop strategies and initiatives that strengthen the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
  • Act as a key liaison between the ISBDC, IEDC, and other stakeholders.
  • Facilitate effective communication and collaboration to support shared goals.
  • Assist with the management and promotion of the ConnectIND portal, ensuring it effectively supports the needs of the entrepreneurial community.
  • Organize and facilitate peer group meetings, fostering collaboration and shared learning among entrepreneurs and small business owners.
  • Work closely with ISBDC Business Advisors to align ecosystem development efforts with counseling services, enhancing the support provided to clients.
  • Report to the Regional Director, providing regular updates on ecosystem development initiatives, stakeholder engagement, and other key activities.
  • Receive direction from and coordinate with the IEDC team.
  • Identify opportunities to improve the entrepreneurial ecosystem and implement changes as needed.
  • Stay up-to-date with best practices in ecosystem development and entrepreneurship.
  • Uphold transparency, meet compliance requirements set by the U.S. Small Business Administration and the State of Indiana Economic Development Corporation, and ensure equitable access to ISBDC services for all clients.
     

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Management, or a related field required. Relevant work experience may be considered in lieu of the educational requirement.
  • At least 3-5 years of experience in a business advisory or consulting role.
  • Proven track record of managing multiple projects simultaneously.
  • Strong understanding of entrepreneurship, ecosystem development, and stakeholder engagement.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to develop and maintain relationships with stakeholders.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and CRM software.
  • Strong problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Good organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
  • Effective communicator and collaborator.
  • Committed to fostering a vibrant and supportive entrepreneurial ecosystem.
     

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience in the small business development sector or a similar field.
 

BU Benefits and Perks

Please visit Butler's Total Rewards website to learn more about our comprehensive benefits package, which includes:

Paid Time Off and Holidays

  • 20 days of paid time off (vacation and PTO) per fiscal year
  • 8 paid holidays
  • Paid Winter Break between Christmas Eve and New Year's Day
  • Paid parental leave after one year of full-time employment

Health and Wellness

  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans
  • Disability and life insurance coverage

Retirement

  • 10% employer contribution after one year of full-time employment

Tuition Assistance

  • Tuition remission for Butler classes for employees, spouses, and dependent children
  • Eligibility after nine months of full-time employment
  • Employees and spouses: Undergraduate and graduate degree programs
  • Dependents (under age 26): Undergraduate degree programs
  • Covers tuition only
  • Tuition Exchange Program for dependents at participating institutions

Additional Butler Benefits and Perks

  • Access to Butler's on-site fitness facility and libraries for full-time faculty and staff
  • LinkedIn Learning courses
  • Complimentary premium subscription to the Calm app
  • Complimentary subscriptions to The Wall Street Journal, The Economist, and The New York Times
  • Discount at the Butler University Bookstore
  • Discounts on select Butler Athletics events and Butler Arts & Events Center performances
Butler University is a private, nationally recognized comprehensive university encompassing seven colleges: Arts, Business, Communication, Education, Liberal Arts & Sciences, Pharmacy & Health Sciences and Founder's College. Approximately 4,500 undergraduate and 1,000 graduate and doctoral students are enrolled at Butler, representing 46 states and 24 countries.

Join us at the crossroads of tradition & transformation. A career at Butler University offers more than just a job-it's an opportunity to join a dedicated, innovative, and supportive community grounded in equity, academic excellence, and meaningful impact. Aligned with Boldly Butler, our strategic plan, faculty and staff play a vital role in delivering transformational learning experiences, enriching our campus and community, and ensuring a thriving Butler for generations to come.

Butler University is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome applications from all individuals, regardless of age, sex, race, religion, color, disability, protected veteran status, national origin, or any other legally protected category.

What Butler University employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply