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Community Economic Development Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Lead the development and implementation of the banks Community Reinvestment Act/ Community and Economic Development strategies at the region level within assigned assessment areas. Assists in leading ...

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Community Economic Development information

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$28.9K

$96K

$144.4K

How much do community economic development jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for community economic development in Texas is $95,979.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,900.00 and $116,000.00 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 the most commonly searched types of Community Economic Development jobs in Texas? The most popular types of Community Economic Development jobs in Texas are:
What job categories do people searching Community Economic Development jobs in Texas look for? The top searched job categories for Community Economic Development jobs in Texas are:
What cities in Texas are hiring for Community Economic Development jobs? Cities in Texas with the most Community Economic Development job openings:
Infographic showing various Community Economic Development job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,979 per year, or $46.1 per hour.

Economic Development & Government Affairs Associate

Killam Development, LTD.

Laredo, TX • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

Description

SUMMARY

The Economic Development & Government Affairs Associate is responsible for identifying, evaluating, and advancing real estate economic development tools and assets covered by these tools to leverage expertise in public-private partnerships, incentives, market intelligence, and strategic relationships. This role focuses on maximizing project feasibility, long-term value, and community alignment while supporting the company's growth and development objectives.



Requirements

ESSENTIAL DUTIES: 

  • Develops, assists, and helps with negotiating long-term strategies for deploying economic development tools to assist with development and construction growth plans
  • Lead business recruitment and development efforts for the company across different industry sectors.
  • Identify existing industries with expansion efforts and manage relationships with local businesses.
  • Research community impact on development efforts to ensure business goals are accomplished.
  • Support economic research to advance business growth. 
  • Negotiate business development grants, loans, and investment packages with local, state, or federal government.
  • Engage with stakeholders, including government officials, educators, and community leaders to align regional interests.
  • Build and maintain relationships with governmental, community, and business leaders to facilitate development projects.
  • Utilize economic data, GIS mapping, and market trends to identify prime locations and economic opportunities.
  • Oversee, direct, and monitor real estate and site development programs to ensure compliance with company goals.
  • Collaborate with internal departments on economic development projects.
  • Manage current and future Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone (TIRZ) agreements. 
  • Lead Municipal Management Districts (MMD) partnerships and Municipal Utility Districts (MUD) and any other special districts or economic development tools
  • Actively seek new business opportunities through networking and outreach. 
  • Participate in town hall meetings, City Council, Planning and Zoning, MPO, State and Federal meetings, non-profits, conferences, workshops and community development events to establish and build business networks. 
  • Work collaboratively with team members and across departments.
  • Other Duties as Assigned.


EDUCATION:

Bachelor's degree required, with master's degree (MBA, Economics, Public Policy) preferred. Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) preferred. 


EXPERIENCE:

Must have at least ten (10) years in economic development, corporate real estate, business finance, or related roles.


SKILLS: 

Must have the following skills and/or abilities:

  • Proficient in Windows operating systems and associated software 
  • High level negotiation skills
  • Ability to lead, present to executives or public boards, and manage complex projects
  • Experience working with city, county, state, and federal agencies
  • Strong oral and written communication skills
  • Ability to work with community and governmental leaders effectively 
  • Knowledge of trends, developments, and techniques in the field of economic development


LICENSES/CERTIFICATIONS:  

Must have a current driver's license and a satisfactory driving record. 


PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Must be able to perform the following physical activity on a frequent to constant basis:

  • Sit for long periods of time while gathering, updating, and validating vendor or supplier cost information or performing other related activities.
  • Lift 10-20 lbs. of files, plans, office supplies, or similar items. 
  • Constantly uses fingers and hands when dialing/answering the telephone and operating a computer or other office machinery, such as a copy machine, scanner, and computer printer.
  • Ability to hear average or normal conversations and receive ordinary information through verbal communications in person or detect objects in and around job site over the telephone.
  • Average, ordinary visual acuity necessary to prepare or inspect documents; operate a computer or other office machinery; or.
  • Walk short distances on slippery, even, and/or uneven surfaces.
  • Stand, bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, twist, turn, or crawl.


WORKING CONDITIONS:

  • Majority of work is performed in an office atmosphere located inside a building, with building inspections as needed.
  • May require infrequent job site visits involve performing work in outdoor weather conditions with exposure to extreme cold, heat, and noise depending upon project site.
  • Travel locally and between cities where development is in progress will be expected.


OTHER REQUIREMENTS:

Must be able to:

  • Adhere to the highest standards of ethics, integrity, professionalism, and discretion.
  • Project a courteous, professional and positive approach with clients, subcontractors, employees, and authorizing agencies while providing prompt, efficient, and accurate assistance. 
  • Follow and exchange basic instructions, information, and guidelines.
  • Direct and instructs Sub-Contractors effectively with a leadership style that is firm, fair, consistent, and goal oriented.
  • Nurture a working environment which encourages employee loyalty, longevity, and satisfaction. 
  • Creates a culture of customer satisfaction.
  • Make independent decisions based on experience or knowledge with minimal supervision.
  • Participate in training and development opportunities offered to maintain construction-related software and safety knowledge.
  • Communicate and comprehend instructions/directions in accordance with safety requirements, which necessitate no language barriers exist between employees and supervisors.
  • Adhere to and perform functions according to company and OSHA safety guidelines.
  • Wear personal protective equipment as required such as steel toed shoes, gloves, safety glasses, hearing protection, hard hat, vest, and the like while conducting job site visits.
  • Maintain regular, timely, and predictable attendance.