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Community Economic Development Jobs in Utah (NOW HIRING)

Gofractional

Redevelopment Agency Director

Vineyard, UT · On-site

$176.33 - $238.32/hr

Eight (8) years of progressively responsible experience in redevelopment, economic development ... community engagement activities. Evening RDA Board meetings and public hearings are regularly ...

Tooele County

Wendover Airport Director

UT · On-site

$115K - $136K/yr

... economic development, and public service. Primary Responsibility Provides exceptional customer ... communities, and the general public. Administers airport leases and contracts: Negotiates ...

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All JobsCommunity Economic Development JobsCommunity Economic Development Jobs in Utah

Community Economic Development information

See Utah salary details

$28.2K

$93.8K

$141.1K

How much do community economic development jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for community economic development in Utah is $93,787.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,200.00 and $113,300.00 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 Utah?

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

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

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

Community Economic Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Community Economic Development job openings in Utah as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,787 per year, or $45.1 per hour.

Community Development Specialist

Mountainland Association of Governments

Orem, UT • On-site

$52K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

This position independently manages key regional community and economic development grant programs. The specialist is fully responsible for direct oversight of the Orem and Lehi  Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Entitlement programs, the Social Services Block Grant (SSBG), and the State Small Cities (CDBG) program.


The role oversees full lifecycle grant administration, including application assistance, workshop coordination, environmental reviews, labor compliance, income survey tracking, project monitoring, and conducting both remote and on-site grantee audits. The ideal candidate is an innovative, self-driven professional capable of taking complete ownership of complex federal and state grant portfolios.


Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  • Provides assistance to jurisdictions and nonprofits applying for funding.
  • Prepares program plans and reports to local elected officials, state agencies and federal agencies.
  • Conducts on-site audits to monitor progress with grant terms and conditions.
  • Keeps program policies and procedures up to date with the most current federal guidelines and regulations.
  • Oversees environmental assessments & labor compliance issues.
  • Coordinates training & application assistance to eligible jurisdictions and non-profit agencies in applying for funding.
  • Independently plans, schedules, and leads applicant workshops, trainings, and technical review meetings. 
  • Processes grant payment requests and invoices.
  • Coordinates with stakeholders and partners.
  • Updates annual application materials, guidelines, policies, and instructional resources. 


Required Qualifications

  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to form relationships
  • Knowledge of technical writing
  • Ability to interpret grant regulations and requirements
  • Strong aptitude for record-keeping and formal reporting
  • Ability to analyze legal, legislative and organizational issues to implement program guidelines & make recommendations
  • Must be able to maintain cooperative working relationships
  • Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines
  • High attention to detail and strong organizational skills
  • Proficient in Google Suite
  • Bachelor’s degree in public administration, business, policy, grant writing, community and/or economic development, or related field or 4 years of experience in program management, including administration of grants, 
    contract management, community development, and economic development.


Working Conditions
This job operates in a professional office environment. This role routinely uses standard office equipment. Travel as necessary will be required in this position. This is a salaried position, expected to work at least 40 hours per week. 


Physical Requirements
This position requires sitting for long periods of time and performing computer-related work. The individual must be able to lift and carry up to 30 pounds.