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Director Economic Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

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Director Economic information

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 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 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 the most commonly searched types of Economic jobs in Michigan?

The most popular types of Economic jobs in Michigan are:

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

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

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Director Economic jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Director Economic job openings:

Infographic showing various Director Economic job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.

Economic Development Specialist

ROWE Professional Services Company

Grand Rapids, MI โ€ข On-site, Remote

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

The Company
ROWE Professional Services Company is an employee-owned, full-service professional consulting firm specializing in civil engineering, surveying, aerial photography/mapping, LiDAR, landscape architecture, planning, and land development.
At ROWE, our core values include safety, quality, people, service, and growth. We are seeking a Economic Development Specialist to join our proactive team of ethical, talented, passionate professionals and leaders at our Grand Rapids, MI office.
Position Summary
The Economic Development Specialist supports ROWE clients in identifying, securing, and managing funding for infrastructure and community development projects. This role blends financial strategy, grant writing, regulatory knowledge, and client relationship management to help communities move projects from concept to construction.
Key Responsibilities
Funding Strategy & Planning
  • Collaborate with engineers, planners, and clients to develop comprehensive funding strategies for community development projects.
  • Identify federal, state, and local grant/loan opportunities (e.g., SRF, USDA-RD, Safety, TAP, Bridge, TEDF, CDBG, EPA programs, etc.).
  • Assist in preparing funding feasibility analyses, rate impact studies, and capital improvement funding plans.

Grant & Loan Administration
  • Support business development efforts and proposal preparation.
  • Lead preparation of grant and loan applications, including narratives, budgets, schedules, and benefit analyses.
  • Coordinate required technical documentation with internal design teams.
  • Track legislative and program changes that affect client funding options.
  • Work with project managers to align project scopes and schedules with funding requirements.
  • Maintain funding opportunity databases and internal best practices.

Job Requirements
  • Degree in Public Administration, Finance, Planning, Business, Professional/Technical Writing or related field.
  • 5+ years of experience in grant administration, municipal finance, economic development, or A/E consulting.
  • Direct experience with infrastructure funding programs preferred.
  • Certified Grant Administrator or related economic development credentials preferred
  • Strong technical writing experience preferred
  • Knowledgeable of federal/state procurement and compliance
  • Ability to translate engineering concepts into fundable community benefits
  • Relationship-building and presentation skills
  • Project management and deadline coordination
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills
  • Ability to work remotely and in person effectively

Why Work Here
ROWE offers a highly competitive wage and benefits package which includes:
  • Overtime pay at time and a half.
  • BCBS medical insurance options with industry-low co-shares.
  • Dental, vision, and employer-paid life insurance plan.
  • A generous PTO program and paid holidays.
  • Flex time scheduling and telework opportunities.
  • Traditional and Roth 401(k) options with 4% company match, auto-enroll and target-based funds.

ROWE is truly dedicated to providing a collaborative workspace, rewarding projects, and a business culture that is reputable, ethically minded, and growth driven. With offices in Flint, Lapeer, Farmington Hills, Grand Rapids, Mt. Pleasant, Grayling, Oscoda, MI, and Myrtle Beach, SC, we have lots of opportunity to grow.
WE BUILD CAREERS!
Check us out at: www.rowepsc.com
Direct Contact Information:
ROWE Professional Services Company
Attn: HR
540 S. Saginaw St., Ste. 200
Flint, MI 48502
employment@rowepsc.com
Equal Opportunity Employer