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Community Economic Development Jobs in Chattanooga, TN

The Chalmers Center

Head of Marketing

Chattanooga, TN · Remote

... economic development. By crafting our digital and physical platforms in the world, you will create vibrant exchanges between Chalmers and community. Building on our existing network, you will use ...

The Chalmers Center

Head of Marketing

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

... economic development. By crafting our digital and physical platforms in the world, you will create vibrant exchanges between Chalmers and community. Building on our existing network, you will use ...

The Chalmers Center

Head of Marketing

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$90 - $150/hr

... economic development. By crafting our digital and physical platforms in the world, you will create vibrant exchanges between Chalmers and community. Building on our existing network, you will use ...

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All JobsCommunity Economic Development JobsCommunity Economic Development Jobs in Chattanooga, TN

Community Economic Development information

See Chattanooga, TN salary details

$28.2K

$93.8K

$141.1K

How much do community economic development jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for community economic development in Chattanooga, TN is $93,803.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,200.00 and $113,400.00 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 Chattanooga, TN?

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

What job categories do people searching Community Economic Development jobs in Chattanooga, TN look for?

The top searched job categories for Community Economic Development jobs in Chattanooga, TN are:

What cities near Chattanooga, TN are hiring for Community Economic Development jobs?

Cities near Chattanooga, TN with the most Community Economic Development job openings:

Community Economic Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Community Economic Development job openings in Chattanooga, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,803 per year, or $45.1 per hour.

Extension Agent, Agriculture, Rhea County, UT Extension: UTIA

The University of Tennessee

Dayton, TN • On-site

Full-time

Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description


Position X2630: Extension Agent, Agriculture
County: Rhea County
Clientele Served: Adult
Headquarters: Dayton, TN
Screening of applicants' credentials will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled.
Target Start Date: 11/1/2026
Tennessee Extension agents are teachers who work in rural, suburban and urban areas with people from all social, economic, racial and ethnic backgrounds. Our classrooms are everywhere...anywhere a person can learn. The classroom may be the county Extension office, an auditorium, an agribusiness firm, a farm, a suburban garden plot or the family home. Agents also use newspapers, radio, television, web sites, and direct mail (or email) as techniques to reach Tennesseans with the latest research information to improve their lives.
Responsibilities
  • Plan, execute, and evaluate programs in the areas of Agriculture and Natural Resources.
  • Keep abreast of the latest information in Agriculture, Marketing and Community Economic Development to meet the educational needs of the county.
  • Establish and maintain good working relationships with Extension staff, commercial producers, agri-business, agricultural agencies, and general public.
  • Develop a cadre of supporters and volunteers to aid in the delivery of programs.
  • Secure extramural funds through grants, fee-based programs, and gifts.
  • Provide accurate and timely reporting of program accomplishments and impacts into the UT Extension reporting system.
  • Responsible to the County Director in all administrative and program matters.
  • Provide leadership for a program of activities that meets the needs of all eligible clientele regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, religion or veteran status.
  • Assume other responsibilities as assigned.

Qualifications
Required Qualifications (External Applicants)
  • Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Natural Resources, or closely related field is required.
  • Applicants must have either a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.7 on a 4.0 point scale, a minimum of 3.0 during their senior year of undergraduate study, or must have earned a Master's degree. Preference will be given to applicants with a MS Degree, and/or work experience in a related field. Applicants graduating prior to the position start date are welcome to apply.
  • A complete application package will include a 1) letter of interest, 2) resume or curriculum vitae, and 3) official or unofficial transcripts showing degree(s) conferred.
  • Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without need now or in the future for sponsorship for employment-based visa status.

Required Qualifications (Internal Applicants)
Request for transfer may be approved if applicant:
  • Has normally been employed with Extension in their current location a minimum of eighteen (18) months.
  • Has a performance rating of satisfactory or above for the previous eighteen (18) months; and
  • Training appropriate for the assignment.
  • Attach a complete application package which includes a 1) letter of interest, 2) a resume or curriculum vitae, 3) and official or unofficial transcripts showing degree(s) conferred.

UT Extension
212 D Morgan Hall
Knoxville, TN 37996-4525
Phone: (865) 974-7245
Website: http://utextension.tennessee.edu
Work Location
  • On-Site at the UT Extension office in Dayton, Tennessee.

Compensation and Benefits
  • Starting Salary Based on Education & Experience
  • Salary: Commensurate with training and experience. This position is funded jointly by UT Extension and Rhea County. Rhea County Government funds 26% of the position salary and benefits costs.
  • Benefits: Group hospitalization and life insurance; State Retirement; Workers' Compensation; sick and annual leave; numerous University of Tennessee and state benefits programs, including liberal time off for holidays, and longevity pay after three years of service; reimbursement for official travel. Find more information on UT Benefits here.

Application Instructions
For best consideration applicants should submit the below materials immediately
  • 1) letter of interest, 2) a resume or curriculum vitae, 3) and official or unofficial transcripts showing degree(s) conferred.

About The Division
UT Extension provides a gateway to the University of Tennessee as the outreach unit of the Institute of Agriculture. It is a statewide educational organization, funded by federal, state and local governments, that brings research-based information about agriculture, family and consumer sciences, and resource development to the people of Tennessee where they live and work.
About Us
The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, has shaped leaders, changemakers, and innovative thinkers since its founding in 1794. The university is home to more than 38,000 students and 10,000 statewide employees-the Volunteers-who uphold the university's tradition of lighting the way for others through leadership and service.
UT Knoxville offers over 900 programs of study across 14 degree-granting colleges and schools. As Tennessee's flagship land-grant university, its footprint spans the entire state. The university holds the highest Carnegie classification for research activity and has deep partnerships with industry leaders and the US Department of Energy's largest multidisciplinary laboratory, Oak Ridge National Laboratory.
The Knoxville campus serves and recruits for UT Knoxville, including the Institute of Agriculture and the Space Institute, as well as the UT Institute of Public Service.
UT Knoxville considers its employees its number one asset. With values that focus on work-life balance, compensation, and innovation leadership, all Vols are supported to advance professionally. Employees have access to career development and coaching, continued education, and an extensive list of development and training possibilities. The Volunteer employee experience implements structures and practices to attract and retain top-tier talent, fostering a strong staff community and supporting a culture of involvement and engagement for everyone.
The university holds a strong commitment to its land-grant mission of learning and engagement, with a tradition of service and leadership that carries that Volunteer spirit throughout the state and around the world. It has been ranked nationally as "Best Employer for New Graduates," "One of America's Best Large Employers," and "Best Workplace for Women," and has been designated as "Best Place for Working Parents" by Forbes Magazine.
Apply today and join the Tennessee Volunteer community!

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