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Director Of Economic Development Jobs in Utah (NOW HIRING)

Director of Development

Draper, UT · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Director of Development Reports To: Chief Operating Officer Why Utah? Utah is home to five national parks, world-class skiing and snowboarding, hundreds of miles of hiking and biking trails, and ...

Director of Product Development

Orem, UT · On-site

$145K - $155K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Director of Product Development Leading Product Strategy, Roadmap Execution, and Speed to Market Salary Range: $145K - $155K/Yr + Bonus Opportunity Position: Full Time - In Office Location: Orem ...

Director of Product Development

Orem, UT

$145K - $155K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Director of Product Development Leading Product Strategy, Roadmap Execution, and Speed to Market Salary Range: $145K - $155K/Yr + Bonus Opportunity Position: Full Time - In Office Location: Orem ...

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Showing results 1-20

Director Of Economic Development information

See Utah salary details

$44.2K

$112.8K

$183.9K

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 Utah is $112,826.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,500.00 and $139,700.00 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 Utah?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Director Of Economic Development job openings in Utah as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,826 per year, or $54.2 per hour.

Director of Strategic Energy Partnerships

Utah Division of Human Resource Management

Salt Lake City, UT • On-site

$57.69 - $62.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

DIRECTOR OF STRATEGIC ENERGY PARTNERSHIPS
The Director of Strategic Energy Partnerships serves as theUtah Governor's Office of Economic Development's (GOED) lead advisor andsubject matter expert for energy-related economic development. As Utahexperiences growing demand for power driven by business expansion, advancedmanufacturing, data centers, and emerging industries, this role supports GOED'sefforts to help ensure the energy needs of new and expanding businesses areaddressed through coordination with the Utah Office of Energy Development, utilities,energy developers, and other key partners.
The position supports GOED's Economic Growth team by providing expertise onenergy-related opportunities and challenges affecting business recruitment,expansion, retention, and site selection projects. Serving as GOED's primaryconnection to the Utah Office of Energy Development, the role helps aligneconomic development priorities with the state's broader energy strategy whilecoordinating with utilities, energy developers, local governments, and otherstate agencies to help businesses navigate complex energy issues.
The position helps strengthen Utah's economic competitiveness by fosteringpartnerships across the public and private sectors that support reliable energysolutions for business growth. While the role coordinates closely with theOffice of Energy Development, it does not establish energy policy or regulateutilities.
POSITION DETAILS& COMMITMENT
  • Salary - $57.69 - $62.50/hr
  • Work Format - Hybrid (At least two days in person at GOED - 60 E South Temple Ste 300, Salt Lake City)
  • Schedule Code - AC - Employees in Offices of Elected Officials
  • Background Check Required - You must successfully pass a criminal history check.
  • Application Deadline - 11:59 PM (MDT) on August 19, 2026

*This job posting may close at any time after the minimum advertising period of three (3) business days has passed, should a sufficient applicant pool be received. Applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible.
ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Provide strategic energy expertise and technical support to GOED's Economic Growth team on business recruitment, expansion, retention, and site selection projects.
  • Partner with GOED's Economic Growth team to support companies with significant energy needs and connect them with the appropriate public and private partners.
  • Serve as GOED's primary liaison to the Utah Office of Energy Development and coordinate energy-related collaboration between GOED, utilities, energy developers, businesses, and other stakeholders.
  • Lead cross-sector partnerships that support business recruitment, expansion, and strategic energy projects.
  • Coordinate with the Office of Energy Development, utilities, energy developers, local governments, and other state agencies to help remove barriers to business investment and strategic energy projects.
  • Support site selection efforts by helping businesses understand energy infrastructure, capacity, and service availability.
  • Help advance energy generation and infrastructure projects by connecting developers with appropriate public and private partners.
  • Build relationships with utilities, industry associations, regional economic development organizations, site selectors, and strategic partners.
  • Monitor energy and infrastructure trends and provide recommendations to GOED leadership.
  • Represent GOED on interagency energy initiatives and facilitate collaboration between the business community, the Office of Energy Development, utilities, and other public and private partners.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
  • Education: Bachelor's degree is preferred but not required. An equivalent combination of education and relevant professional experience will be considered.
  • Seven years of progressively responsible experience in economic development, business development, utilities, infrastructure, government relations, commercial real estate, corporate site selection, industrial development, or a related field.
  • Experience leading complex, multi-stakeholder projects.
  • Demonstrated ability to build partnerships with business, government, and industry leaders.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Experience with utilities, energy developers, or large industrial energy users.
  • Experience supporting advanced manufacturing, data center, large-load, or energy infrastructure projects.
  • Knowledge of utility interconnection, transmission planning, energy infrastructure, or industrial site selection.
  • Familiarity with Utah's economic development ecosystem.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES
  • Strong relationship-building, communication, and negotiation skills.
  • Ability to coordinate complex public-private initiatives.
  • Strategic problem-solving and project management skills.
  • Knowledge of economic development principles and partnership development.
  • Ability to represent GOED with professionalism and sound judgment.

WHY YOU SHOULD JOIN OUR TEAMGOED is a fast-paced,dynamic office staffed with a hard-working, passionate team with diverseexperiences and expertise. We strive to match your interests and strengths withour office needs. Working in this office will give you direct, hands-onexperience. This job will grow your professional skills and capabilities. TheState of Utah offers a highly competitive benefits package. Click HERE to review.
WHO WE AREThe Governor's Office ofEconomic Development (GOED) champions Gov. Cox's commitment to providingeconomic opportunity for all Utahns. The office supports Utah entrepreneurs andbusinesses. We work to retain and recruit companies and bring more high-payingjobs to Utah. In addition, we work with industries, Utah regions, communities,and nonprofits to implement strategic economic development plans and reinforceUtah's already diverse, prosperous economy. We utilize federal and stateresources and private sector contracts to cultivate economic prosperity for allUtahns.
EEO STATEMENTThe State of Utah is committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity, or Veteran status. We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements. For accommodations, please contact (801) 957-9390.
Recruiter - Sarah Humphries; shumphries@utah.gov