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Community Economic Development Jobs in Boston, MA

City of Medford

Director of Economic Development

Medford, MA · On-site

$1.7K - $2.0K/wk

... community. This role involves designing and supporting economic development programs, fostering partnerships, and leading efforts to attract and retain businesses. The Director also plays a key role ...

Commonwealth of Massachusetts

Accountant II

Boston, MA · On-site

The Executive Office of Economic Development values inclusiveness and diversity within their employee and management teams. Within our community we strive to create and maintain working and learning ...

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All JobsCommunity Economic Development JobsCommunity Economic Development Jobs in Boston, MA

Community Economic Development information

See Boston, MA salary details

$33.7K

$111.9K

$168.4K

How much do community economic development jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for community economic development in Boston, MA is $111,916.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,500.00 and $135,200.00 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 Boston, MA? For Community Economic Development jobs in Boston, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Community Economic Development jobs in Boston, MA look for? The top searched job categories for Community Economic Development jobs in Boston, MA are:
Community Economic Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Community Economic Development job openings in Boston, MA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,916 per year, or $53.8 per hour.

Director of Economic Development

City of Medford

Medford, MA • On-site

$1.7K - $2.0K/wk

Full-time

Posted 4 hours ago

Job description

POSITION: Director of Economic Development
DEPARTMENT: Planning, Development, and Sustainability 
HOURS OF WORK: Full-time (35 hours/week) Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 8:30am – 4:30pm; Wednesday 8:30 am - 7:30 pm; Friday 8:30 am - 12:30. Nights and Weekends as needed.
SALARY: Non - Union CAF 15 ($1,770.41 – 2,071.39/Week)
BASIC FUNCTION:
The Director of Economic Development is responsible for developing, managing, and executing strategic initiatives that promote economic growth, recovery, and resilience within Medford’s business community. This role involves designing and supporting economic development programs, fostering partnerships, and leading efforts to attract and retain businesses. The Director also plays a key role in marketing Medford as a prime location for business investment, with the overarching goal of expanding the city’s tax base and creating sustainable employment opportunities for residents.
This position operates under the general direction of the Mayor and the PDS Director to advance the city's economic development goals in alignment with the Mayor’s vision. The individual in this role will work closely with the Mayor, engaging in regular consultation to ensure clear communication, alignment on strategic priorities, and the effective execution of business and economic development initiatives under the Mayor’s leadership.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
The essential functions or duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.
  • Functions as an advisor to the Mayor, the Director of Planning, Development, and Sustainability (PDS), as well as other City officials on economic development policies and plans.
  • Engages with business owners and real estate developers to understand their needs, long-term goals, and planned initiatives, identifying opportunities to align private sector interests with the City’s strategic priorities and vision.
  • Facilitates the predevelopment process for new commercial and residential projects; routinely meets with key stakeholders to support major economic activity and ensure City involvement adds value and direction to proposed developments.
  • Advocates for and implements policies and programs within municipal government to encourage long-term economic growth in the City; manages business retention and expansion efforts in the City’s various commercial districts; creates and manages support initiatives for the City’s small businesses.
  • Maintains a detailed portfolio of economic activity in the City, including new business activity, development, and employment statistics.
  • Supports relevant City boards and committees tasked with licensing, evaluating the success of economic development initiatives, etc.
  • Acts as a representative of the City for economic development matters when interacting with state, regional, and local agencies or organizations.
  • Oversees any and all planning initiatives as they relate to economic development.
  • Applies for grants and manages earmarks in line with the goals of the department.
  • Functions as liaison to the Chamber of Commerce and other economic development organizations and community groups.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:
Minimum:
  • Bachelor’s degree in business, economics, urban planning, or related field with 3 years of related experience and 3 years of related experience in a supervisory capacity.

Beneficial:
  • Master’s degree in planning, economic development, business, or related fields would be beneficial.
  • American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) or Certified Economic Developer (CED) credential.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES: Please See Job Full Description
PHYSICAL & ENVIRONMENTAL WORKING CONDITIONS: Please See Job Full Description
ADDRESS ALL COVER LETTERS AND RESUMES TO:
Human Resources Department
City of Medford – Room 204
85 George P. Hassett Drive
Medford, MA 02155
Or send cover letter and resume with the job title in the subject line to jobs@medford-ma.gov
For the posting, please visit the City of Medford's website – www.medfordma.org
The City of Medford is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/504 Employer Residents of the City of Medford, Women, People of Color, Veterans and Persons with Disabilities are encouraged to apply.