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Director Of Economic Development Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

Olathe

Economic Development Analyst

Olathe, KS · On-site

$65K - $77K/yr

If you are a current City of Olathe employee, please click this link to apply through your Workday ... The Economic Development Analyst will provide professional level municipal work related to the ...

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$43.3K

$110.5K

$180.2K

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

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for director of economic development in Kansas is $110,530.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,800.00 and $136,900.00 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 Kansas?

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

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

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

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

Cities in Kansas 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 Kansas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $110,530 per year, or $53.1 per hour.

Economic Development Analyst

Olathe

Olathe, KS • On-site

$65K - $77K/yr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

If you are a current City of Olathe employee, please click this link to apply through your Workday account.
Employment Type
Full Time
Job Summary
To continue this trend of excellence, the City is recruiting for an Economic Development Analyst that is skilled in problem-solving, organizational skills, collaboration, analytical capabilities, critical thinking, and has excellent written/verbal communication and customer service skills.
The Economic Development Analyst will provide professional level municipal work related to the research, analysis, and reporting of economic, financial, and demographic data. This position is responsible for supporting the development, analysis and maintenance of financial, statistical, and information resources particularly related to economic development.
Under the direction of the Financial Strategy Manager, the successful incumbent will be responsible for ensuring economic incentive compliance, developing analysis and forecasts for economic development projects and associated incentives, and improving the economic incentive reporting and maintenance structure in support of the City's long-range financial planning activities.
Compensation for this role is an annual salary between $65,570.00 - $77,384.00, and will be determined by a number of factors including but not limited to education and relevant work experience.
This role is a full time onsite role located out of our City Hall office.
For more details, review the full job details and requirements below.
The Economic Development Analyst provides professional-level municipal work related to the research, analysis, and reporting of economic, financial, and demographic data. They support the development, analysis, and maintenance of financial, statistical, and information resources, particularly related to economic development. Under the direction of the Financial Strategy Manager, this position will be responsible for ensuring compliance with economic incentives, developing analysis and forecasts for economic development projects and associated incentives, and improving the reporting structure for economic incentives to support the City's long-range financial planning activities.
Key Responsibilities
  • Ensures the integrity of economic development records, data, and systems; identifies data integrity issues and provides solutions and oversight procedure recommendations; ensures compliance and monitors annual reporting on active economic development projects and incentives.
  • Reviews, interprets, and implements agreements related to the use of incentives; prepares incentive applications for City Council approval in coordination with the Olathe Chamber of Commerce and makes presentations to the City Council and/or other advisory boards.
  • Develops and maintains an in-depth understanding of the City's economic development policies and practices, making recommendations for improvements; conducts economic studies and analysis, recommending modifications to programs, policies, and procedures in support of the City's 2040: Future Ready Strategic Plan.
  • Provides ongoing support with highly complex development projects and associated incentives; prepares the annual Economic Development activity report; performs specialized economic analyses and impact studies in support of economic incentive programs and current/potential projects that may include incentives such as Industrial Revenue Bonds, Tax Increment Financing, Community Improvement Districts, Benefit Districts, Transportation Development Districts, and Neighborhood Revitalization program.

Qualifications
Experience: Candidates must possess proficiency in Microsoft Excel with exceptional data analysis skills, strong critical thinking, and organizational skills. They should have experience supporting and working with cross-functional teams in a dynamic environment, along with the ability to multi-task and manage multiple processes simultaneously. Excellent attention to detail and a willingness to learn new technologies, tools, and platforms are also essential. Preferred candidates will possess at least one year of experience in local government or other related experience.
Education: A bachelor's degree in public administration, political science, business administration, economics, finance, or a related field is required. Preferred candidates will possess a master's degree.
Licenses & Certifications: None required.

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