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Director Of Economic Development Jobs in Arizona

City of Yuma

Economic Development Manager

Yuma, AZ · On-site

$112K - $146K/yr

Do you want to be a part of a strong team dedicated to serving our community, building ... Planning, organizing, directing, and evaluating economic development projects. Interpreting and ...

City of Yuma, AZ

Economic Development Manager

Yuma, AZ · On-site

$112K - $146K/yr

City of Yuma, AZ Job Type: Full-time Job Number: 2026-00140 Department: Community Development ... Planning, organizing, directing, and evaluating economic development projects. * Interpreting and ...

Valid8 Financial, Inc.

Director of Development

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

The Director of Development is a senior leader responsible for designing and executing a comprehensive fundraising strategy to support capital completion, endowment growth, and sustainable annual ...

RDF

Director of Communications

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

Direct experience with CDFIs, philanthropy, or economic development WHY JOIN RDF This is a rare opportunity to shape the communications narrative of a growing national CDFI at the intersection of ...

ARTS COMMISSION

Director of Development

Scottsdale, AZ · On-site

$85 - $95/hr

Position: Director of Development Type: Full time About Western Spirit Museum Western Spirit Museum tells the story of the North American West through its visual culture. As one of the nation ...

RDF

Director of Communications

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$90 - $120/hr

Direct experience with CDFIs, philanthropy, or economic development. WHY JOIN RDF This is a rare opportunity to shape the communications narrative of a growing national CDFI at the intersection of ...

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All JobsOf Economic Development JobsDirector Of Economic Development JobsDirector Of Economic Development Jobs in Arizona

Director Of Economic Development information

See Arizona salary details

$45.2K

$115.5K

$188.2K

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

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for director of economic development in Arizona is $115,492.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,400.00 and $143,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

Is economic development a good career path?

A career as a Director of Economic Development involves planning and implementing strategies to improve local economies, requiring skills in project management, data analysis, and stakeholder engagement. It offers opportunities for leadership, community impact, and professional growth, often with a competitive salary and advancement potential. Success in this field depends on relevant education, experience, and understanding of economic trends.

What are popular job titles related to Director Of Economic Development jobs in Arizona?

For Director Of Economic Development jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Director Of Economic Development jobs in Arizona look for?

The top searched job categories for Director Of Economic Development jobs in Arizona are:

What cities in Arizona are hiring for Director Of Economic Development jobs?

Cities in Arizona with the most Director Of Economic Development job openings:

Director Of Economic Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Director Of Economic Development job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $115,492 per year, or $55.5 per hour.

Economic Development Project Manager

City of Mesa, AZ

Mesa, AZ • On-site

$90K - $124K/yr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago

City Of Mesa rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 30 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

222nd of 849 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Salary: $90,291.97 - $124,603.65 Annually
Location : PO Box 1466, Mesa, AZ
Job Type: Full Time
Job Number: 17533
Department: (H900) Citywide
Opening Date: 08/07/2026
Closing Date: 8/27/2026 11:59 PM Arizona
Description/Duties
There are currently two (2) vacancies in the Economic Development Department. While both of these vacancies fall under the Office of Economic Development (Special Programs) assignment, one (1) of the positions will support the emerging field of Creative Economy & Industry Development, while the other will support Small Business and Entrepreneurship. This recruitment will also be used to establish a Citywide eligible list for potential future vacancies.
The first review of applications will be on Monday, August 17, 2026.
An Economic Development Project Manager plans, organizes, monitors, manages, and evaluates economic development project activities. Responsibilities include coordinating, directing, and implementing programs and projects that support commercial, office, and industrial development; business development; workforce development; the attraction of and assistance to domestic and international businesses; development of public facilities and infrastructure; small business development initiatives; and/or other economic development, redevelopment, or capital improvement programs or projects.
Work requires considerable independent judgment and initiative in combining a broad scope of professional planning and economic development knowledge and sophisticated, analytical judgments in order to solve a variety of complex, technical problems. Responsible for overall management of economic development project activities. Employees in this class may be required to work evenings and/or weekends for special events or programming coverage (by assignment). This class may functionally supervise Economic Development Specialist(s) and/or office support staff. This class is supervised by a department director or deputy director who reviews work through conferences, meetings, reports, and results achieved. This class is FLSA exempt-administrative.
Creative Economy & Industry Development: Develops and advances Mesa's creative economy ecosystem by attracting, growing, and retaining businesses in areas such as film, media, music, gaming, immersive technologies, industrial design, digital content, and other creative industries. Fosters strategic partnerships, workforce development, and innovation opportunities that diversify Mesa's economy and strengthen the competitiveness of the City's target industry sectors.
Small Business and Entrepreneurship: Supports entrepreneurs and small businesses through resource connections, technical assistance, strategic partnerships, and programs that encourage business formation, growth, and long-term success.
Please refer to the link below for the full job description and additional information regarding assignments, preferred qualifications, and essential functions.
Qualifications & Requirements
Employee Values: All employees of the City of Mesa are expected to uphold and exhibit the City's shared employee values of Knowledge, Respect, and Integrity.
Minimum Qualifications Required. Any combination of training, education, and experience equivalent to graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor's Degree in Economic Development, Public or Business Administration, Commercial Real Estate, Urban Planning, Marketing, Arts Management, Creative Industries, or a related field. Extensive (5+ years) progressively responsible work experience at a level that required supervision or management of projects and programs in economic development, redevelopment, marketing, commercial real estate development, business assistance, public facility, infrastructure development, or workforce development.
Special Requirement. Must possess a valid Class D Arizona Driver's License by hire or promotion date.
Preferred/Desirable Qualifications. Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Master's Degree in Economic Development, Public or Business Administration, Commercial Real Estate, Urban Planning, Marketing, Arts Management, Creative Industries, or a related field; membership in related professional organizations; the ability to speak a second language; and designation as a Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) or current certification in a related field.
City Manager's Office (Urban Transformation) Assignment: Experience working in a downtown setting with multiple stakeholders, including business improvement districts, enhanced municipal services districts, and/or convention and visitor bureaus; contract negotiation and management; and grant writing.
Office of Economic Development (Special Programs) Assignment - Creative Economy & Inustry Development: Experience in creative industry development, arts administration, media production, and/or event management.
Link to Job Description
A is linked here.
01
Which vacancy do you want to be considered for? Please select all that apply.
  • The current vacancy in the Office of Economic Development (Special Programs) assignment, with a focus in Creative Economy & Industry Development.
  • The current vacancy in the Office of Economic Development (Special Programs) assignment, with a focus in Small Business and Entrepreneurship.
  • Future Citywide vacancies

02
Do you have a Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university Degree in Economic Development, Public or Business Administration, Commercial Real Estate, Urban Planning, Marketing, Arts Management, Creative Industries, or a related field? **To receive education credit, you MUST fully detail your degree(s) and major(s) on your application. Information provided only on a resume will NOT be considered.**
  • Yes
  • No

03
Do you have a Master's Degree or higher from an accredited college or university Degree in Economic Development, Public or Business Administration, Commercial Real Estate, Urban Planning, Marketing, Arts Management, Creative Industries, or a related field? **To receive education credit, you MUST fully detail your degree(s) and major(s) on your application. Information provided only on a resume will NOT be considered.**
  • Yes
  • No

04
How many years do you have of progressively responsible work experience at a level that required supervision or management of projects and programs in economic development, redevelopment, marketing, commercial real estate development, business assistance, public facility, infrastructure development, or workforce development?
  • None
  • Some but less than 5 years
  • 5 years or more but less than 7 years
  • 7 years or more but less than 9 years
  • 9 years or more

05
Please describe your work experience that required supervision or management of projects and programs in economic development, redevelopment, marketing, commercial real estate development, business assistance, public facility, infrastructure development, or workforce development. below; include employment dates and names of employer(s). If none, type N/A. **To receive credit, you MUST fully detail this experience on your application. Incomplete applications or responses such as "see resume" will not be considered. Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of a completed, detailed application.**
06
Do you have a valid Class D Arizona Driver's License, or can you obtain one by hire or promotion date?
  • Yes
  • No

07
If you possess a membership in any related professional organizations, please list them in the text box below. If none, type N/A.
08
If you have the ability to speak a second language (other than English), please list them in the text box below. If none, type N/A.
09
Are you a Certified Economic Developer (CEcD)? Please detail this information on your application under Certificates and Licenses.
  • Yes
  • No

10
Do you have experience in creative industry development, arts administration, media production, and/or event management? Please detail your experience on your application.
  • Yes
  • No

11
Please describe your experience in creative industry development, arts administration, media production, and/or event management? If none, type N/A
Required Question

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