ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Community Economic Development Jobs in Washington, DC

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsCommunity Economic Development JobsCommunity Economic Development Jobs in Washington, DC

Community Economic Development information

See Washington, DC salary details

$35.1K

$116.6K

$175.5K

How much do community economic development jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for community economic development in Washington, DC is $116,638.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $92,300.00 and $141,000.00 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 Washington, DC? For Community Economic Development jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Community Economic Development jobs in Washington, DC look for? The top searched job categories for Community Economic Development jobs in Washington, DC are:
Community Economic Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Community Economic Development job openings in Washington, DC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 20% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $116,638 per year, or $56.1 per hour.
Economic Development Specialist

Economic Development Specialist

City of Greenbelt

Greenbelt, MD

$26.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

JOB SUMMARY AND DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE WORK:
Assist with coordinating the economic development activities to achieve the goals and objectives of the City of Greenbelt. The work is performed under the direction of the Economic Development Manager. This position requires the employee to conduct economic research and collect data, and to establish and maintain effective working relationships with city staff; businesses and community groups; developers; county, state, and federal officials; and the general public. A significant focus of the work is in Business Retention and Expansion, working with and in support of, Greenbelt’s existing businesses. Position works 20 hours per week and can coordinate final schedule with the Economic Development Manager.
** Hourly Rate = $26.50**
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable an individual with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Update the City’s existing business list as needed.
Conduct on-site business visits with the Economic Development Manager and assist in compiling data and information from the visits.
Support the Economic Development Manager in developing and coordinating activities and strategies for business expansion and retention.
Conduct economic research, including data collection, processing, and analysis and prepare reports incorporating infographics, maps, and charts in coordination with the Economic Development Manager.
Develop and distribute comprehensive business surveys to local businesses; conduct outreach; and collect and analyze survey results.
Assist with coordinating business conferences, workshops, job fairs, and other business engagement activities and events.
Answer phone calls to the Economic Development office and answer questions or pass calls along to the Economic Development Manager as appropriate.
Attend meetings as requested and brief supervisor on results of the meetings,
Complete special projects assigned by the supervisor in support of department goals. Other duties as assigned.
MATERIAL AND EQUIPMENT USED:
Computer General Office Equipment Automobile Mobile Telephone
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABIITIES:
General understanding of economic development, community development, and local government practices.
Knowledge of:
MS Office, especially Excel.
Developing and sending out online surveys and analyzing results. Familiarity with survey tools a plus.
Performing research, compiling information, and making recommendations or presentations on findings.
All computer applications and hardware related to the performance of the essential functions of the job.
Department organization, standard operating guidelines and policies, rules, and regulations.
CRM systems a plus.
ESRI or other data mapping tools a plus.
Skill in:
Preparing clear and concise reports, correspondence, and other written materials.
Oral and written communication with a variety of public stakeholders.
Customer service and problem solving for different constituencies.
Appropriate research techniques and platforms for acquiring requested data and reports.
Event coordination, logistics, and planning.
Data collection and analysis.
Operating and maintaining all assigned equipment required to perform the essential functions of the job.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED:
Education and Experience:
High School Diploma or equivalent; if applicable at least two years of college preferred; and one to two years of progressively responsible experience; or,
Any combination of education, training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the essential functions of the job.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
Work is performed in a normal office environment with little exposure to outdoor temperatures or dirt and dust.
Work is performed on-site, in-person at the office, and will require visiting businesses and other community sites in-person regularly.
The employees’ working conditions are typically quiet.
Occasional evening and weekend working hours may be required.
Note: This class specification should not be interpreted as all-inclusive. It is intended to identify the essential functions and requirements of this job. Incumbents may be requested to perform job-related responsibilities and tasks other than those stated in this specification. Any essential function or requirement of this class will be evaluated as necessary should an incumbent/applicant be unable to perform the function or requirement due to a disability as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Reasonable accommodation for the specific disability will be made for the incumbent/applicant when possible.

Apply