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Director Of Economic Development Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Economic Development Director

Berlin, CT · On-site

$90.32K - $115.47K/yr

Job Title : Economic Development Director Hours: (35) per week Union Affiliation : Middle ... Under the direction of the Town Manager, oversees and administers the Town's economic development ...

Economic Development Manager

Colton, CA · On-site

$122.59K - $149.01K/yr

Under general direction of the Development Services Director, plans, manages, organizes, and directs the operations and services of the Economic Development Division, the Successor Agency to the ...

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How much do director of economic development jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for director of economic development in the United States is $123,934.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $89,500.00 and $153,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Director Of Economic Development, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Director Of Economic Development, you need expertise in economic analysis, strategic planning, and community development, typically supported by a degree in economics, public administration, or a related field. Familiarity with Geographic Information Systems (GIS), economic modeling software, and grant management tools is often required, along with certifications such as CEcD (Certified Economic Developer). Exceptional leadership, stakeholder engagement, and negotiation skills help drive successful partnerships and project implementation. These skills and qualities are essential for fostering sustainable economic growth, securing funding, and aligning diverse interests for community benefit.

What are some common challenges faced by a Director of Economic Development, and how can candidates prepare to address them?

Directors of Economic Development often encounter challenges such as balancing the interests of various stakeholders, navigating regulatory and policy constraints, and adapting to shifting economic trends. Candidates should be prepared to build strong relationships with local government, business leaders, and community organizations, while effectively managing competing priorities. Staying informed about economic data, policy updates, and best practices in economic development will help candidates anticipate challenges and proactively develop solutions. Effective communication, negotiation, and strategic planning skills are essential for success in this role.

What does a Director of Economic Development do?

A Director of Economic Development is responsible for creating and implementing strategies to promote economic growth within a city, region, or organization. This role typically involves attracting new businesses, supporting existing businesses, fostering job creation, and coordinating with government agencies, community groups, and private sector partners. The director also analyzes economic trends, develops incentive programs, and oversees projects that enhance the community’s economic well-being. Their efforts are aimed at improving the local economy, increasing employment opportunities, and enhancing the overall quality of life.

What is the difference between Director Of Economic Development vs Economic Development Coordinator?

AspectDirector Of Economic DevelopmentEconomic Development Coordinator
CredentialsBachelor's degree; often master's in economics, business, or public administrationBachelor's degree; relevant experience may suffice
Work EnvironmentStrategic planning, leadership, stakeholder engagementProject support, research, community outreach
Employer & Industry UsageLocal government, economic development agencies, non-profitsMunicipal offices, economic development departments

The Director Of Economic Development typically holds a higher level of responsibility, focusing on strategic planning and leadership, while the Economic Development Coordinator supports projects and community outreach. Both roles are essential in economic growth initiatives but differ in scope and seniority.

More about Director Of Economic Development jobs
What cities are hiring for Director Of Economic Development jobs? Cities with the most Director Of Economic Development job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Director Of Economic Development jobs? The top employers for Director Of Economic Development jobs are:
What states have the most Director Of Economic Development jobs? States with the most job openings for Director Of Economic Development jobs include:
Infographic showing various Director Of Economic Development job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 67% Physical, and 33% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $123,934 per year, or $59.6 per hour.
Director of Economic Development

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Director of Economic Development

Organization: City of Prescott City: Prescott Location: Arizona Country: United States of America Primary Category: Economic Development Type of Position: Full Time

Job Summary

Directs the staff, budget, resources, and operations of the Economic Development Department.

Essential Duties

  • Manages the Economic Development department including staff, consultants, budgets, services, projects, and programs.
  • Promotes business attraction, retention, expansion, and diversification.
  • Works with City leadership to establish goals, strategies, and objectives for economic development. Plans, assigns, and oversees work to achieve established goals.
  • Supervises, hires, trains, develops, and evaluates personnel; works with employees to correct deficiencies and expand capabilities; and implements incentives and discipline in accordance with the organization's policies and applicable laws.
  • Provides visionary, innovative leadership which encourages and recognizes creativity, innovation and flexibility at all levels of the department and programs.
  • Provides advice and counsel.
  • Plans, designs, operates, reviews, monitors and guides the continued improvement of departmental projects and programs. Seeks to improve return on investment, where appropriate.
  • Communicates official plans, policies and procedures to employees and the general public as required; responds to public inquiries and coordinates regularly with appropriate internal staff with appropriate political sensitivity and respect for proprietary business information.
  • Facilitates meetings with staff, internal departments, committees, and/or other applicable groups. May serve or participate on various committees, teams and/or with external agencies. Prepares and gives presentations to a variety of audiences.
  • Works collaboratively to develop marketing plans, materials, and information to promote business attraction, retention, and expansion.
  • Travels to recruitment, educational, and networking events to learn best practices and to keep Prescott in the mind of potential new businesses.
  • Develops lasting relationships and partnerships.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education and/or Experience: Bachelor's degree in Business or Public Administration, Economic Development, or related field. Five (5) years of recent experience in economic development; or an equivalent combination of directly related education and experience.

Licensing, Certification, and Other Requirements: Possess an Arizona driver's license in good standing.

Employee Core Beliefs

City of Prescott employees should seek to uphold the City's core beliefs throughout their day-to-day business and with every customer they come in contact with, both internal and external. Our core beliefs are: Act with Integrity, Work as a Team, Have Personal Commitment and Loyalty, Solve Problems, Take Pride In Excellent Results, High Level of Productivity and Being Nice.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

  • Knowledge of leadership principles and managerial practices and techniques to successfully supervise, develop, and empower staff.
  • Knowledge of key economic development principles and methods.
  • Knowledge of marketing principles and public relations techniques.
  • Knowledge of destination marketing organizations and their role in the community.
  • Knowledge of federal, state, and City laws, regulations, policies, and procedures related to gathering and disseminating public information.
  • Knowledge of budgeting and finance principles and practices.
  • Knowledge of project management principles and practices.
  • Knowledge of customer service principles and practices.
  • Skill in supervising, leading, and developing staff.
  • Skill in directing, developing, managing, identifying, communicating and carrying out the objectives of the department.
  • Skill in interpreting and applying complex principles, methods and practices related to economic development.
  • Skill in using computers and related software applications.
  • Skill in interpreting and applying applicable Federal, state and local laws, codes, ordinances, rules and regulations.
  • Skill in solving problems and proposing sound alternatives.
  • Skill in communication and interpersonal skills as applied to interaction with coworkers, supervisors, the general public, elected officials, and other interested parties.
  • Ability to establish and maintain cohesive working relationships with public and private sector representatives, elected officials, department heads, employees, media representatives, professional groups, and the general public.
  • Ability to analyze, develop, and conduct research and surveys.
  • Ability to exercise considerable judgment and discretion.
  • Ability to work independently.
  • Ability to develop professionally-targeted promotional material such as brochures, presentations, and materials utilizing computer software; Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Desktop Publishing, Internet navigation, databases, social media platforms, and related programs.

Physical Demands and Working Conditions

  • Work is performed in a standard City office and sometimes out in the community.
  • Safely and effectively performs required duties and safely operates required equipment and City vehicle as needed.
  • Clearly, concisely, and effectively communicates, both in person and over the telephone.
  • Work is performed in a dynamic environment that requires sensitivity to change and responsiveness to changing goals, priorities, and needs.

How to Apply / Contact

Apply for the Director of Economic Development position.