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Director Of Economic Development Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

2026 Director of Planning

Uniontown, OH · On-site

$105K - $115K/yr

The Planning Department responsibilities are completed by a team of nine (9) employees reporting to this position which includes an assistant director, community development, economic development ...

... economic development and labor relations to infrastructure projects, utilities matters, local ... Director of Law, Cabinet, Council, and other senior leadership Oversight of major litigation ...

The Deputy Director of Law helps shape legal strategy, guide major policy initiatives, and supports ... Economic development projects, development agreements, and public-private partnerships * Active ...

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Director Of Economic Development information

See Ohio salary details

$46.1K

$117.8K

$192K

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 Ohio is $117,823.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,100.00 and $145,900.00 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 Ohio?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Director Of Economic Development job openings in Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $117,823 per year, or $56.6 per hour.

Economic Development Coordinator

Delaware, County of (OH)

Delaware, OH • On-site

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Objectives Individual supports the activities of the department in concert with the Director of Economic Development and the Economic Development Team. Independent and group work are both essential to the role. Responsibilities include taking a primary lead on sites and building inventory, marketing the County to businesses, investors and community partners, submitting requests for information and utilizing data and information to advance the goals and objectives of the Economic Development department.

Individual reports to the Director of Economic Development. Job Standards Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, City or Regional Planning Economics, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Real Estate, or related field plus a minimum of three (3) years of progressively responsible experience in economic development, community development, planning, business development, grant administration, project management, or a related field. Must possess a valid driver's license and have an acceptable driving record.

Must meet and maintain qualifications for driving on county business at all times and as a continued condition of employment. All required licenses and certificates must be maintained as a condition of continued employment. Essential Functions Responsible for Request for Information (RFI)/Request for Proposal (RFP) submissions, sites and building inventory identification and management, database management and utilization, and understands and effectively utilizes data for visualization and communications purposes; Responsible for coordinating and achieving compliance for Economic Development incentive programs, including but not limited to: federal, state and local incentive programs, loan programs, and tax incentive activities preparing necessary reports and following all necessary requirements, including coordinating the County's tax incentive programs and preparing yearly tax abatement reports; With support from Director and team, assists with applications and implementation for various grants and local, state, and federal economic development programs; Assists and participates in a variety of regional initiatives, including, but not limited to, housing, workforce development, and broadband; Collaborates, develops and implements plans that will further the established goals/policies of the Economic Development Department; Coordinates and participates in business recruitment, retention, expansion, and site selection activities, including preparing information and materials for prospective businesses, developers, site consultants, and investors; Develops and maintains productive working relationships with businesses, developers, community organizations, elected officials, governmental agencies, and regional economic development partners; Responsible for conducting research and data analysis to support attraction, expansion, entrepreneurship, housing, and retail strategies which include, but are not limited to: workforce and labor demographics, real estate, transportation, housing, infrastructure, and competitive advantage assessments as needed; Attends, participates in, and provides support to various business meetings, board meetings and committee meetings as requested by Director or as needed by the team; Performs marketing support as needed or requested, including but not limited to, posting on social media, website enhancements and maintenance, collateral development, site visit preparation materials, and Power Point presentations; Supports the work of the Economic Development Strategic Plan of Delaware County, to include but not limited to, collaboration skills as the department works to implement and execute various strategies and tactics that require the ability to meet with businesses, , elected officials, consultants, development and real estate communities, and other internal and external public, academic, and not-for-profit partners to complete work as assigned.

Works in conjunction with federal, state and local governmental agencies; Develops, maintains, and organizes departmental records, reports, databases, and project documentation in accordance with departmental and legal requirements; Drives a motor vehicle to attend trainings, meetings, project sites, business locations, site visits, and other County related functions; Demonstrates regular and predictable attendance; Attends various training sessions, video conferences, and workshops; Performs typing, word processing, and related computer operations; Works additional hours and outside of typical work schedule/business hours as required; and Other duties as assigned. Full job descriptions are available on the Class Specifications page. Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/D/V.