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Director Of Economic Development Jobs in Michigan

Oakgov

College Intern - Economic Development

Waterford, MI · Hybrid

$15.25 - $20.25/hr

As one of Michigan's leading public service organizations, we are committed to strengthening ... development, economic vitality, and place-based initiatives. Gather, organize, and analyze ...

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Director Of Economic Development information

See Michigan salary details

$42.3K

$108K

$176.1K

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

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for director of economic development in Michigan is $108,020.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,000.00 and $133,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

Is a director of economic development a good career path?

A director of economic development is a senior leadership role focused on promoting economic growth and community development, often requiring strong skills in strategic planning, public relations, and data analysis. It can offer a stable career with opportunities for advancement, but typically requires relevant experience and a background in economics, public policy, or related fields.

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 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.

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

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

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

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

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

Cities in Michigan 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 Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 80% In-person, and 20% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $108,020 per year, or $51.9 per hour.

Economic Development Specialist

ROWE Professional Services Company

Flint, MI • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 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 corporate Flint, 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

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