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Community Economic Development Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

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Community Economic Development information

See Texas salary details

$28.9K

$96K

$144.4K

How much do community economic development jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 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 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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $95,979 per year, or $46.1 per hour.

Economic Development Specialist

City of Beaumont, TX

Beaumont, TX โ€ข On-site

$45K - $55K/yr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Salary: $45,000.00 - $55,000.00 Annually
Location : 801 Main Street, Beaumont, TX
Job Type: Full Time
Job Number: 6125
Department: Planning & Community Development
Opening Date: 05/07/2026
Duties and Responsibilities
Essential Job Functions: Under general direction, the Economic Development Specialist plays a vital role in advancing the City's economic development objectives by supporting a variety of programs and initiatives that align with the City's evolving growth strategies and promote overall economic vitality. Assist with programs and initiatives that advance the City's economic development goals, responding to emerging opportunities and priorities as strategies evolve. Supports efforts to attract new businesses and investment, retain and expand existing businesses, and strengthen the local economic ecosystem. Conducts research and analyzes social, economic, and industry data to support strategic decision-making and innovative initiatives. Contribute to web, print, and social media campaigns that promote the City's economic opportunities and community image. Build and maintain positive relationships with regional and local organizations, developers, corporate leaders, and City departments to advance projects efficiently and collaboratively. Support administration of economic development incentives, monitor compliance, and provide updates to stakeholders. Work with the City's Communication Department and external marketing consultants to develop communications initiatives that promote the City's image and inform the business community; maintain accurate data on properties, development projects, and business activity, and prepare reports aligned with measurable goals and City strategies; takes ownership of special projects, coordinates department meetings and events, and support initiatives that arise in response to dynamic priorities. Engage with businesses, residents, and community partners to support the City's economic development mission, demonstrating professionalism, initiative, and collaboration; demonstrates flexibility, a growth mindset, and a willingness to take initiative to support the team and City strategies. Perform other duties as assigned.
Other Job Functions: Performs other duties as required. This position requires a proactive, solution-oriented "will-do" mindset, strong collaboration and professionalism, and the ability to adapt, learn quickly, and take initiative to drive community, workforce, and business development.
Working Conditions
This position requires 100% on-site work. Normal office environment; Must be available to work Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Must be available to work overtime as needed.
Minimum Essential Qualifications
Knowledge: Knowledge of modern office practices, procedures, systems, and equipment; An understanding of basic community development and community organization principles and techniques. Knowledge of basic federal, state and local government programs and procedures. Knowledge of the principles and practices of public administration and governmental organization. Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Power Point, Access and Excel), data reporting tools and CRM databases, with the ability to quickly learn new software.
Skills/Abilities: Proactive, solutions-oriented "will-do" mindset and professionalism. Strong collaboration skills and the ability to work effectively with diverse teams and stakeholders. Strong written and verbal communication skills, including report preparation and presentations. Ability to collect, analyze, and summarize data; prepare complete, accurate, timely, and reliable reports related to the daily operation and productivity; ability to express ideas clearly both orally and in writing; ability to organize and control large volumes of paperwork; ability to interact effectively with employees and government agencies; ability to use office equipment, computers, and calculators. Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a dynamic environment. Flexibility and adaptability to support changing priorities and emerging opportunities. Must demonstrate the ability to provide exceptional customer service.
Physical Requirements: Constantly sees and hears; frequently sits, stands, walks, writes, uses a calculator, PC and enters data; infrequently lifts, carries, drags, pulls or pushes objects weighing up to 30 lbs.; operates automobile office equipment.
Education/Experience: Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Economics, Public Administration, or a related field preferred. Minimum of three (3) years of professional experience in economic development, urban planning, community or workforce development, real estate, downtown management, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and/or experience.
Other
This position is fully funded by a grant, covering the position's salary and associated costs. Continued employment is dependent on the availability of these grant funds. Must possess a valid Class C driver's license with a good driving record. Other state valid Driver's License equivalent to Texas Class C with a good driving record will be considered. Texas state law requires within 30 days of residency, you must possess a valid Texas driver's license. Applicant selected for hire will be subject to a background investigation and drug/alcohol screen test.
The City of Beaumont provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. In addition, The City of Beaumont will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities. To request a reasonable accommodation or other assistance contact a Human Resources representative at (409) 880-3777 or through RELAY Texas at 1-800-735-2989 or mail your request to P.O. Box 3827, Beaumont, Texas 77704.
The City may consider all related education and/or experience in determining the applicant's minimum qualifications and starting salary.
All Full-Time Civilian employees have the option to receive medical, prescription, and dental insurance.
01
Do you possess a valid driver's license with a good driving record or another state valid driver's license equivalent to Texas Class C with a good driving record? Texas state law requires within 30 days of residency, you must possess a valid Texas driver's license.
  • Yes
  • No

02
Do you have a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in business administration, marketing, economics, public administration, or a related field?
  • Yes
  • No

03
Do you have a minimum of three (3) years professional experience in economic development, urban planning, community or workforce development, real estate, downtown management, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and/or experience?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question