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Community Economic Development Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Campbell County

Intern - Local Government

Rustburg, VA · On-site

$12 - $14/hr

Community * Economic Development * Information Technology * Public Safety * Library * Events & Experiences * Parks & Recreation * Public Works * Communications & Public Relations * Benefits ...

City of Roanoke, VA

Tourism Specialist

Roanoke, VA · On-site

$84K - $134K/yr

Strong understanding of tourism trends, economic development principles, and community/stakeholder engagement strategies. * Skills and Abilities: * Excellent communication and interpersonal skills ...

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All JobsCommunity Economic Development JobsCommunity Economic Development Jobs in Virginia

Community Economic Development information

See Virginia salary details

$30.7K

$102.1K

$153.7K

How much do community economic development jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for community economic development in Virginia is $102,137.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,800.00 and $123,400.00 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 Virginia? For Community Economic Development jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Community Economic Development jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Community Economic Development jobs in Virginia are:
Community Economic Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Community Economic Development job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,137 per year, or $49.1 per hour.

Economic Development Specialist

City of Roanoke, Virginia

Roanoke, VA

$68K - $107K/yr

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

Description The City of Roanoke is seeking an Economic Development Specialist to perform professional work supporting the City's real estate and economic development initiatives. This position is responsible for managing City owned real estate assets, facilitating property transactions, administering key economic development programs, and serving as a liaison between the City, the Economic Development Authority, and the commercial real estate community. Primary Responsibilities Manage City owned property leases, license agreements, easements, and encroachments to ensure compliance with applicable agreements and City policies.

Coordinate and administer the sale and disposition of City owned real property, including working with internal departments, legal counsel, developers, and prospective purchasers. Provide staff support to the City of Roanoke Economic Development Authority (EDA), including coordinating monthly meetings, preparing agendas and supporting documentation, maintaining official records, and implementing EDA actions. Administer local and state Enterprise Zone programs, ensuring compliance with program requirements and serving as a resource to businesses and property owners.

Serve as the department's primary liaison to the commercial real estate community, developers, brokers, property owners, and other economic development stakeholders to support investment and redevelopment opportunities. Assist with business recruitment, retention, redevelopment, and other strategic economic development initiatives as assigned. Perform other related duties as assigned.

The City of Roanoke is an Equal Employment Opportunity/AA/M/F/Disability Employer. To elevate the performance of the organization, we are committed to respecting, celebrating, and embracing the collective mixture of differences and similarities between our employees as a rich tapestry. Our behaviors will demonstrate open communication, and we will seek opportunities to learn, recognizing and rewarding actions that promote acceptance while suspending judgment.

By doing this, we will foster an inclusive, open work environment that delivers excellent service and creates a more vibrant and inviting community. This is an exempt position. Typical Qualifications Education and Experience Bachelor's degree from an accredited four year college or university with major course work in real estate, business administration, economics, urban planning, public administration, or a closely related field.

A Master's degree in an appropriate field is preferred. Two or more years of progressively responsible experience in economic development, commercial real estate, property management, redevelopment, public administration, or a related field is preferred. Experience administering public programs, managing real estate transactions, negotiating agreements, or preparing state or federal grant applications is highly desirable.

An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities may be considered.

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