ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Community Economic Development Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

ADP, Inc.

Community Services Project Manager

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$78K - $80K/yr

Community Services Project Manager Full Time USIVA, Norfolk, VA, US 2 days ago Requisition ID: 1377 ... Foster partnerships to boost neighborhood economic development. * Develop and implement a ...

The Aerospace Corporation

Economist

Chantilly, VA · On-site

... space (NSS) community. As the space sector becomes increasingly commercialized, we provide ... Provide timely analysis and input on emerging economic developments affecting government customers.

The Aerospace Corporation

Economist

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$117K - $175K/yr

... space (NSS) community. As the space sector becomes increasingly commercialized, we provide ... Provide timely analysis and input on emerging economic developments affecting government customers.

The Aerospace Corporation

Economist

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$117K - $175K/yr

... space (NSS) community. As the space sector becomes increasingly commercialized, we provide ... Provide timely analysis and input on emerging economic developments affecting government customers.

previous page

Showing results 41-60

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 Sep 10, 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 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 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 September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,137 per year, or $49.1 per hour.

Executive Director, Real Estate Foundation

Norfolk, VA • On-site

Fahrenheit Advisors
Business Management Consulting • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Fahrenheit Advisorsexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Fahrenheit Advisors has been retained to assist our client, Old Dominion University and the Real Estate Foundation, in their search for an Executive Director. Old Dominion University seeks an experienced executive to lead institutionally significant real estate initiatives and serve as Executive Director of the ODU Real Estate Foundation. The role sits at the intersection of higher education, economic development, public-private partnership, and commercial real estate and is positioned within the Administration and Finance organization.
This leader will work closely with the Vice President for Finance/Chief Financial Officer for the University, the Foundation board, City of Norfolk stakeholders, and external development partners to advance projects aligned with the University's master plan, portfolio strategy, and broader community impact goals.
The position is highly visible and requires a leader who can pair financial sophistication and deal packaging experience with public-facing credibility, local relationship building, and strong executive communication.
About Old Dominion University and the Real Estate Foundation
Old Dominion University is a public research university in Norfolk, Virginia, serving the Hampton Roads region through academic programs, strategic partnerships, civic engagement, and strong ties to government, business, the military, research organizations, and the broader community.
The ODU Real Estate Foundation is the vehicle through which the University acquires, builds, manages, and develops real estate in support of institutional priorities. Its approximately $90.4M portfolio includes mixed-use developments, research park assets, retail, housing, museum-related assets, and other properties aligned to the University's master plan.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership and Institutional Alignment
  • Provide executive leadership for real estate development initiatives on behalf of Old Dominion University, aligning opportunities and active projects with institutional priorities, the University's master plan, and long-term economic development objectives.
  • Advise senior leaders on the strategic, financial, operational, and reputational implications of acquisitions, developments, partnerships, and portfolio decisions.
  • Translate complex project activity into clear recommendations for University leadership and Foundation trustees.

Foundation Executive Oversight
  • Serve as Executive Director of the ODU Real Estate Foundation and carry out chief executive responsibilities assigned by the Foundation board.
  • Partner with the board on portfolio priorities, transaction strategy, risk assessment, and major development decisions.
  • Operate effectively in a board-facing environment that includes approximately 15 local members and requires consistent communication, trust building, and follow-through.

Deal Structuring, Finance, and Project Execution
  • Lead and package complex real estate transactions, including acquisition, development, redevelopment, financing, refinancing, and disposition activity.
  • Oversee return analysis, capital structuring, debt strategy, project budgets, invoice review, financial monitoring, and closeout activities in partnership with finance support resources.
  • Direct due diligence activities, including title, environmental, survey, zoning, entitlement, and contract review processes, while maintaining strong attention to timing, risk, and execution discipline.
  • Bring strong financial acumen and commercial judgment; Foundation-specific experience is helpful but not required if the candidate brings meaningful real estate finance and deal-making depth.

Government, Community, and External Relations
  • Serve as the primary interface with the City of Norfolk and other public-sector stakeholders regarding University-related real estate initiatives.
  • Represent the University and Foundation before public bodies, civic groups, media, community stakeholders, developers, lenders, brokers, and other partners.
  • Maintain a visible onsite and local community presence and cultivate relationships that help advance projects efficiently and credibly.

Portfolio and Operations Leadership
  • Oversee an active and diverse real estate portfolio currently described as approximately $90.4 million in assets spanning mixed-use, research, retail, housing, hospitality, and other University-supportive properties.
  • Balance long-term development strategy with day-to-day portfolio, operational, and transaction demands.
  • Work within a lean organizational structure that includes one direct report - plus shared administrative and foundation support resources.

Required Qualifications
  • Master's degree in Business Administration, Real Estate, Urban Planning, or a related field; a bachelor's degree with equivalent experience may be substituted.
  • Considerable senior-level experience in commercial real estate, economic development, real estate finance, or a closely related field.
  • Extensive knowledge of commercial real estate practices, including finance, acquisition, valuation, property management, and asset management.
  • Strong financial background with proven experience structuring and underwriting deals, building packages, and managing project economics.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills and the ability to present effectively to boards, senior administrators, public officials, and external stakeholders.
  • Ability to work independently, manage ambiguity, and operate successfully in a visible, relationship-driven environment.
  • Experience in economic development or real estate development roles within local government, redevelopment, or public-sector environments is particularly relevant.
  • Candidates with strong local or regional credibility in Hampton Roads, or who can quickly establish such credibility

Apply