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Director Economic Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

The Senior Director, Medical Economics leads analytic service delivery by aligning strategic objectives with the development of tools and capabilities and appropriate deployment of supporting ...

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Director Economic information

What does a director of economic development do?

A Director of Economic Development leads initiatives to promote economic growth within a city, region, or organization. They identify opportunities for business expansion, attract new investments, and work with stakeholders to improve the local economy. Their responsibilities often include policy development, managing economic programs, and collaborating with government agencies, businesses, and community groups. The goal is to create jobs, foster innovation, and enhance the overall economic well-being of the area they serve.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a director of economics, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Director of Economics, you need advanced expertise in economic analysis, policy development, and quantitative research, typically supported by a master's or doctoral degree in economics or a related field. Mastery of statistical analysis software (such as Stata, SAS, or R), economic modeling tools, and familiarity with databases is often required. Strategic thinking, leadership, and strong communication skills set outstanding professionals apart in this role. These competencies are vital for providing actionable economic insights, guiding organizational strategy, and effectively communicating complex findings to diverse stakeholders.

What are some common challenges faced by a director of economic development when working with diverse stakeholders?

A Director of Economic Development often collaborates with a range of stakeholders, including government agencies, private investors, community organizations, and local businesses. One common challenge is balancing competing interests and priorities, such as economic growth versus community impact or environmental concerns. Additionally, gaining consensus and fostering partnerships across sectors requires strong negotiation and communication skills. Navigating regulatory frameworks and adapting to changing economic conditions are also frequent hurdles in this leadership role.

What is the difference between Director Economic vs Economist?

AspectDirector EconomicEconomist
Required CredentialsMaster's or PhD in Economics, Business, or related fieldTypically a Master's or PhD in Economics or related discipline
Work EnvironmentLeadership roles in corporations, government agencies, or consulting firmsResearch, analysis, and policy development in various settings
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in corporate, government, and consulting sectors for strategic planningCommonly employed in research institutions, government, and academia

The main difference is that a Director Economic oversees economic strategies and decision-making at an organizational level, while an Economist focuses on research, analysis, and policy development. The Director Economic typically has more managerial responsibilities, whereas the Economist emphasizes analytical skills and data interpretation.

What are the most commonly searched types of Economic jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Economic jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Director Economic jobs in Iowa?

For Director Economic jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Director Economic jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Director Economic job openings:

Infographic showing various Director Economic job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.

Assistant Director Economic Development

Iowa Central Community College

Fort Dodge, IA • On-site

$54K - $59K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

Salary: $54,511.73 - $59,962.90 Annually
Location : Fort Dodge, IA
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 202200638
Department: Instruction
Division: Economic, Workforce and Continuing Education
Opening Date: 08/06/2026
FLSA: Exempt
Description Summary
Assist businesses in identifying and fulfilling their training needs through tailored programs that enhance workforce capabilities, both industrial and non-industrial. Promote, implement, and oversee various state programs, including the Iowa New Jobs Training Program (260E), the Iowa Jobs Training Program (260F), and the Accelerated Career Education Program (260G).
Examples of Duties
Constant (67-100%)
  • Support initiatives working with Business and Industry.
  • Recruit and hire trainers as needed to conduct classes.
  • Coordinate training activities.
  • Coordinate, monitor, and maintain records for the Iowa New Jobs Training Program (260E) and the Iowa Jobs Training Program (260F).
  • Effectively communicate with Business and Industry on programs for which they are eligible.
  • Work with and provide customer service to internal and external customers.
  • Responsible for selling, implementing, and tracking customized training.
  • Maintain the integrity and confidentiality of prospective company, existing company and personnel information.
  • Utilizing maximum 260F funds. Optimize ACE (260G) funding.
  • Perform detailed tracking of multiple projects, which involves data entry. Work as a team player with fellow employees
Frequent (34-66%)
  • Establish job assignments for trainers.
  • Work with area community and economic development individuals.
  • Be willing to travel
  • Sell training to industry.
  • Track withholding submissions.
  • Reconcile & balance Excel spreadsheets and general ledger accounts on a regular basis.
Occasional (10-33%)
  • Make recommendations concerning curriculum and development.
  • Assist with the development of new courses and revisions of existing courses within the department.
  • Perform additional duties as assigned.

PERFORMANCE EXPECTATIONS:
  1. Be able and willing to represent Iowa Central Community College in a positive manner with prospective, former, and current trainees, clients, suppliers, and the community we serve.
  2. Will maintain accurate training records.
  3. Regular communications with all college areas.
  4. Be creative, energetic, self-motivated individual with strong attention to detail, professional appearance, positive attitude and demonstrate leadership and organization skills.
  5. Ability to communicate clearly, concisely, logically, and coherently orally and in writing.
  6. Establish and maintain good working relationship with top management (or their designees) of business and industry, training managers, training participants and the general public.
  7. Working knowledge of personal computers, general office equipment and educational media equipment.
  8. Possess strong human relations skills, and ability to get along with diverse populations.
  9. Assume responsibility, deal effectively with problems and exercise independent judgement when making decisions.

Qualifications
Bachelor's degree or any combination of experience, education and demonstrated knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSA) needed to perform the job is required. Ability to independently manage the details associated with multiple projects, to track activities, and to meet deadlines.
Supplemental Information
GENERAL PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES WITH OR WITHOUT A REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION:
Position involves constant (67-100%) talking to or listening to persons over the telephone and in person. Frequent (34-66%) traveling, sitting, visual activity and repetitive motion while utilizing computer equipment. Occasional (10-33%) stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching, pushing, pulling and carrying/lifting up to 25 pounds.
The statements contained herein reflect general details as necessary to describe the essential job duties/responsibilities and performance expectations of the job, which should not be considered an all-inclusive listing of work requirements. Individual may perform other duties as assigned.
We offer a complete benefits package to full-time employees including medical, dental, retirement (IPERS or TIAA), life insurance (2x base salary up to $300,000), and long-term disability.
Our paid time off package includes holidays (7), vacation (15 days), personal days (16 hours), volunteer leave (8 hours) and sick leave (120) hours. The leaves listed are annual and some of the leave benefits may be prorated based on date of hire.
In addition, we offer several voluntary benefits including: vision, supplemental employee, spouse and children life insurance, flexible spending accounts, and 403b retirement savings.