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Community Economic Development Jobs in Memphis, TN

The Community - Memphis, TN Memphis is a city in the southwestern corner of the State of Tennessee ... in economic development; it saw the President of the United States inspired by a group of local ...

Gather and organize data for economic justification to support feasibility of prioritized/approved ... Working at Lehman-Roberts means being part of our community to build a future while respecting our ...

Anesthesiologist - Pediatrics

Memphis, TN ยท On-site

$357K/yr

From its award-winning Broadway shows to its economic development strides and its resilient spirit ... community. With a rich history spanning decades, it stands as a beacon of medical excellence ...

The Community - Memphis, TN Memphis is a city in the southwestern corner of the State of Tennessee ... in economic development; it saw the President of the United States inspired by a group of local ...

CRNA

Memphis, TN ยท On-site

$123/day

From its award-winning Broadway shows to its economic development strides and its resilient spirit ... community. With a rich history spanning decades, it stands as a beacon of medical excellence ...

MRI Tech

Memphis, TN ยท On-site

... in economic development; it saw the President of the United States inspired by a group of local ... nine community-based outpatient clinics (CBOC). It is a tertiary care facility classified as a ...

... economic opportunity, and a stronger future. By integrating technical excellence with environmental ... Career Development and Training * Flexible/Hybrid Schedule * Community Service Opportunities

Civil Analyst

Hernando, MS ยท On-site

$70K - $85K/yr

... economic opportunity, and a stronger future. By integrating technical excellence with environmental ... Career Development and Training * Flexible/Hybrid Schedule * Community Service Opportunities

Showing results 21-40

Community Economic Development information

See Memphis, TN salary details

$30.1K

$100.1K

$150.6K

How much do community economic development jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for community economic development in Memphis, TN is $100,081.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,200.00 and $120,900.00 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 Memphis, TN?

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Community Economic Development job openings in Memphis, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $100,081 per year, or $48.1 per hour.

Chief Executive Officer

Mid-South Transportation Management

Memphis, TN โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Chief Executive Officer

Location: Memphis, TN

JOB FUNCTION:Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA) seeks a visionary, ethical, and results-driven CEO to lead the organization into a new era of accountability, performance, and public trust. The CEO will serve as the agency's top executive and report directly to the Board, providing leadership, operational oversight, financial stewardship, and strategic guidance for MATA's services across the Memphis metropolitan area.
This role requires a transformational leader who brings deep transit experience, a strong record of financial and organizational leadership, and the interpersonal acumen to rebuild trust with employees, the public, and critical stakeholders including the City of Memphis Administration, Memphis City Council, and state and federal oversight agencies.
Key Responsibilities:
Strategic Leadership & Organizational Turnaround
  • Lead MATA through a comprehensive transformation-building a high-performance, accountable culture focused on safety, reliability, customer service, and operational excellence.
  • Design and implement strategic plans that modernize transit services, optimize performance, and improve the rider experience.
  • Serve as the public face of MATA and a passionate advocate for the role of public transit in regional economic development and equity.
Financial Management & Resource Stewardship
  • Direct the development of annual operating and capital budgets with clear performance measures and internal controls.
  • Ensure responsible stewardship of local, state, and federal funding while pursuing additional funding opportunities.
  • Present financial and strategic updates regularly to the Board, City of Memphis Administration, Memphis City Council, and other key stakeholders.
Stakeholder Communication & Relationship Management
  • Serve as a trusted and proactive communicator with local government partners, transit advocates, business leaders, and riders.
  • Build strong relationships with union leadership, ensuring a balanced and respectful approach to labor relations.
  • Actively engage with federal and state regulatory agencies to ensure compliance and secure support for long-term priorities.
Board Engagement & Oversight
  • Partner closely with the MATA Board of Commissioners, ensuring regular communication, strategic alignment, and high levels of transparency.
  • Prepare and present timely, data-informed reports and proposals to enable effective Board oversight.
  • Respond professionally and ethically to all Board directives and demonstrate consistent follow-through on commitments.
Culture, Ethics, and Team Leadership
  • Model the highest standards of ethics, integrity, and accountability.
  • Build an inclusive, respectful, and performance-oriented organizational culture.
  • Mentor and lead a high-performing executive team; drive internal collaboration and cross-departmental effectiveness.
Core Competencies & Attributes:
  • Ethical Leadership: Demonstrates unwavering integrity, transparency, and professionalism.
  • Turnaround Experience: Proven ability to stabilize, restructure, and rebuild struggling organizations.
  • Financial Acumen: Strong grasp of public finance, budget planning, and fiscal accountability.
  • Stakeholder Communication: Engages credibly with elected officials, regulators, and the public.
  • Cultural Transformation: Skilled in workforce engagement, organizational alignment, and change management.
  • Accountability & Oversight: Understands and embraces the role of the Board in ensuring performance.
  • Equity & Access Orientation: Champions equitable service delivery for all communities.
  • Transit Sector Knowledge: Deep understanding of transit systems, regulations, and best practices.
Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, Transportation Planning, Urban Planning, or related field (Master's degree preferred).
  • Minimum 10 years of progressively responsible leadership experience, including at least 5 years in a senior executive role in transit, transportation, or a closely related public or nonprofit sector.
  • Demonstrated success in leading large, complex organizations through transformation and in building trust with public stakeholders.
  • Experience working closely with governing boards and elected officials.
Additional Expectations:
  • Must be a visible and regular user of MATA services and a strong regional advocate for public transportation.
  • Must reside in, or be willing to relocate to, the Memphis area and be available for frequent community engagement.
  • Must possess the physical ability to attend off-site meetings and represent MATA locally and nationally.
  • Must be willing to operate with full transparency and frequent communication with the MATA Board and public.
Employment Type: Full-Time Exempt