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Director Of Economic Development Jobs in Nebraska

Son

Economist

Lincoln, NE · On-site

$27.96/hr

... of Economic Development, you will work as part of a professional team whose goal is to ensure good data governance and enable data-driven decision making for the agency. The Economist will conduct ...

Nebraska State Jobs

Economist

Lincoln, NE · On-site

$27.96/hr

... of Economic Development, you will work as part of a professional team whose goal is to ensure good data governance and enable data-driven decision making for the agency. The Economist will conduct ...

Monitise

Director of Software Development

Omaha, NE · On-site

Job Title Director of Software Development We are seeking a hands-on, strategic Director of Software Development to lead and grow our engineering teams, drive technical strategy, and deliver high ...

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

Director Of Economic Development information

See Nebraska salary details

$46.2K

$118.2K

$192.6K

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

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for director of economic development in Nebraska is $118,165.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,300.00 and $146,400.00 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 job categories do people searching Director Of Economic Development jobs in Nebraska look for?

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

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

Cities in Nebraska 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 Nebraska as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $118,165 per year, or $56.8 per hour.

Executive Director

Southeast Nebraska Development District

Waverly, NE • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

About Waverly Economic Development Corporation

The Waverly Economic Development Corporation is a newly formed, community-focused nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting business growth, attracting new investment, and enhancing quality of life in Waverly, Nebraska. WEDC is hiring its first full-time Economic Development Director to build the organization and its programs from the ground up, emphasizing business attraction/retention, program development, and community engagement as core responsibilities.

Position Overview

The Economic Development Director is the primary staff person for WEDC and leads efforts to attract, retain, and grow businesses; identify and implement functional income mechanisms and sustainable funding strategies; secure grants and external resources; and promote Waverly as a thriving place to live, work, and invest. This position works closely with City of Waverly staff, elected officials, business owners, regional partners, and community members to advance projects and initiatives that foster a positive, flourishing community and a resilient local economy.

Key Responsibilities

  • Develop and implement a multi-year economic development work plan for WEDC with clear goals, strategies, and performance metrics. Similar director roles are often responsible for strategic plans that guide local economic development activities.
  • Identify, evaluate, and help implement functional income mechanisms and sustainable funding tools (such as grants, partnerships, contracts, sponsorships, and program revenues) to support economic development initiatives.
  • Research and recommend programs, policies, and financing approaches that can generate ongoing resources for business development, community projects, and organizational sustainability.
  • Proactively identify, write, and submit competitive grant applications to state, federal, and philanthropic funders to support business development, infrastructure, downtown improvements, workforce initiatives, and related priorities. Grant writing and grant management are common responsibilities for economic development directors in similar communities.
  • Manage awarded grants, including compliance, reporting, budgeting, and coordination with partners.
  • Develop an annual funding strategy that aligns grants, local funds, and other revenue sources to advance WEDC and community goals.
  • Establish and lead a business retention and expansion (BRE) program, including regular visits to existing businesses to identify needs, opportunities, and potential risks.
  • Maintain a project and prospect pipeline; respond to inquiries from businesses and developers; and coordinate available sites, buildings, incentives, and local contacts. Rural economic development positions often combine both retention and recruitment efforts.
  • Support entrepreneurship and small business growth by connecting local firms to financing, technical assistance, and state/federal programs.
  • Develop and implement a marketing and communications plan to promote Waverly to target audiences (e.g., small manufacturers, service businesses, logistics, remote workers, families). Many economic development director roles oversee or coordinate marketing and promotion activities for their communities.
  • Oversee WEDC’s website, social media, and promotional materials; coordinate branding and messaging with the City and other partners.
  • Represent Waverly at regional, state, and national conferences, trade shows, and industry events as budget allows; cultivate relationships with site selectors, commercial brokers, and state agencies.
  • Serve as a primary liaison to City of Waverly staff, elected officials, the school district, business and civic groups, and regional economic development partners. Similar positions often coordinate closely with local governments and boards.
  • Organize and facilitate stakeholder meetings, focus groups, and community listening sessions related to economic development and funding strategies.
  • Prepare and deliver presentations to the WEDC Board, City Council, civic organizations, and the public.
  • Prepare and manage WEDC’s annual budget in collaboration with the Board and City staff.
  • Track, analyze, and report key performance indicators such as jobs created or retained, capital investment, business visits, grants secured, and marketing activities. Reporting and measurement are common expectations for economic development directors.
  • Handle basic administrative tasks typical of a one-person office (meeting coordination, agendas, minutes, simple bookkeeping entries, etc.), or coordinate with contracted administrative support.

Qualifications

Education

  • Bachelor’s degree in Economic Development, Business, Public Administration, Urban/Regional Planning, Finance, Marketing, Nonprofit Management, or a related field;
  • Or an equivalent combination of education and directly relevant experience.

Experience

  • Minimum of 3-5 years of progressively responsible experience in economic development, community development, nonprofit management, public administration, business development, or a closely related field.
  • Demonstrated grant writing and grant management experience including a track record of successful awards (state, federal, or foundation). Grant responsibilities are frequently highlighted in rural and regional economic development director roles.
  • Experience working with local governments, boards, and community organizations.
  • Preferred:
  • Familiarity with Nebraska economic development tools and state programs.
  • Experience with business financing programs (e.g., revolving loan funds, SBA, USDA, or other financing tools).
  • Knowledge of economic development principles and tools (business attraction/retention, incentives, workforce development, downtown or corridor revitalization). Many director job descriptions emphasize this core knowledge area.
  • Strong relationship-building skills with business owners, developers, public officials, and community members.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication, including public speaking and presentation skills.
  • Strong organizational, analytical, and project management skills; ability to manage multiple initiatives with limited staff support.
  • Proficiency with standard office software (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), spreadsheets and basic data analysis, CRM/contact management, and social media/web content management.

Additional Requirements

Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation for in-town and regional travel. Similar positions commonly require a valid driver’s license due to frequent site visits and meetings.

  • Ability to work occasional evenings and weekends for meetings, events, and community engagement activities.

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