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Economic Developer Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Operations Research Analyst

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$102K - $121K/yr

Advanced level analyst in cost estimating, operations research, mathematics, economics, engineering, science, or business fieldsPossess substantial expertise to accomplish cost analysis, apply ...

Purchasing Associate

Auburn, AL · On-site

$18.50 - $22/hr

Bachelor's in business, economics, engineering, or supply chain preferred; or high school with 2-3 years relevant experience. * ERP, OSHA, forklift, and propane handling training provided.

Data Scientist, Finance

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$110 - $160/hr

Typically requires a bachelor's degree in Mathematics, Computer Science, Physics, Economics, Engineering, Statistics, Operations Research, Quantitative Social Science or a related area * at least ...

Senior Client Developer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$50.75 - $67/hr

Senior Client Developer Requisition Number: 2026-2703-01 Are you an experienced client developer ... for economic and business growth is a plus. About you: * You have a Bachelor's degree in ...

Senior Client Developer

Huntsville, AL

$50.75 - $67/hr

Senior Client Developer Requisition Number: 2026-2703-01 Are you an experienced client developer ... for economic and business growth is a plus. About you: * You have a Bachelor's degree in ...

Develop engineering studies, economic evaluations, and capital project recommendations. * Collaborate with operations, maintenance, and management teams to achieve production and business objectives.

Senior Client Developer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$50.75 - $67/hr

... economic and business growth is a plus. About you:You have a Bachelor's degree in engineering ... marketing, construction, business, or a related fieldYou have a minimum of 8 years of technical and ...

Senior Bridge Engineer

Mobile, AL · On-site

$81K - $111K/yr

Position OverviewThompson Engineering is seeking a Senior Structural Engineer with specialized ... economic development, and coastal projects.Today, our teams lead projects that define skylines ...

Senior Bridge Engineer

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$86K - $117K/yr

Position OverviewThompson Engineering is seeking a Senior Structural Engineer with specialized ... economic development, and coastal projects.Today, our teams lead projects that define skylines ...

Senior Bridge Engineer

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$86K - $117K/yr

Position Overview Thompson Engineering is seeking a Senior Structural Engineer with specialized ... economic development, and coastal projects . Today, our teams lead projects that define skylines ...

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Economic Developer information

See Alabama salary details

$14

$60

$92

How much do economic developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for economic developer in Alabama is $60.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41.83 and $77.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an economic developer?

Economic Developers are professionals who work to improve the economic well-being and quality of life in a community or region. They do this by attracting new businesses, supporting existing companies, creating jobs, and fostering sustainable economic growth. Their responsibilities often include planning and managing development projects, securing funding, and collaborating with government agencies, businesses, and community groups. Economic Developers play a vital role in shaping the economic future of the areas they serve.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an economic developer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Economic Developer, you need a solid background in economics, business administration, or urban planning, often supported by a relevant degree and experience in public or private sector development. Familiarity with data analysis tools, geographic information systems (GIS), and economic modeling software, as well as certifications like CEcD (Certified Economic Developer), are typically valuable. Strong communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills set top performers apart in this field. These competencies are crucial for crafting effective development strategies, securing investments, and fostering sustainable economic growth within communities.

What are some common challenges economic developers face when working with local businesses and government agencies?

Economic Developers often work at the intersection of public and private interests, which can present challenges such as aligning the goals of local businesses with municipal regulations or community needs. Navigating complex approval processes, securing funding, and balancing economic growth with sustainable development are frequent hurdles. Effective communication and relationship-building skills are essential, as the role requires ongoing collaboration with government officials, business leaders, and community stakeholders to create win-win solutions.

What is the difference between Economic Developer vs Urban Planner?

AspectEconomic DeveloperUrban Planner
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in economics, business, or related field; often certifications in economic developmentBachelor's or master's in urban planning, geography, or related field; planning certifications
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, economic development organizations, consulting firmsMunicipalities, government agencies, private planning firms
Employer & Industry UsageFocuses on attracting and retaining businesses, job creation, economic growthFocuses on land use, zoning, community development, and urban design

While both roles aim to improve communities, Economic Developers primarily focus on economic growth and business attraction, whereas Urban Planners concentrate on land use and community development. They often collaborate but serve different core functions within urban development projects.

How much do economic developers make?

Economic developers typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $90,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior or specialized roles can pay over $100,000, especially in larger organizations or regions with a high cost of living. The role often requires strong communication, project management skills, and knowledge of economic development tools and policies.
Infographic showing various Economic Developer job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $125,682 per year, or $60.4 per hour.

Operations Research Analyst (Cost Estimating - Advanced Analyst I)

Vali, Inc.

Huntsville, AL

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

Position Summary:

Vali Incorporated seeks a highly qualified candidate to support the Missile Defense Agency (MDA) as an Advanced Analyst Level I in cost estimating and analysis. This position will support the development, fielding, and integration of the MDA Missile Defense System. Cost Estimating support includes development and maintenance of Life Cycle Cost Estimates (LCCE) and models for Defense Acquisition programs, cost analysis, schedule analysis, quality reviews of program cost estimates and conducting cost estimate excursions.

Essential Responsibilities:

  • Advanced level analyst in cost estimating, operations research, mathematics, economics, engineering, science, or business fields
  • Possess substantial expertise to accomplish cost analysis, apply costing methods, research cost analysis models, perform schedule analysis, and conduct quality reviews and estimates of existing or future complex weapon systems
  • Perform independent analyst work that involves designing, developing, and adapting mathematical, statistical, econometric, and other scientific methods and techniques
  • Analyze management problems and provide advice and insight about the probable effects of alternative solutions to these problems
  • Lead, plan, formulate, and apply mathematical modeling and other optimizing methods to develop and interpret information that assists management with decision making, policy formulation, or other managerial functions
  • Work independently and lead teams in solving problems
  • Specialized related extensive knowledge, skills, and abilities in the analysis field
  • Provide daily supervision and direction to support teams and junior analysts

Education/Experience Requirements:

  • Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Mathematics, Engineering, Operations Research, Economics, Statistics, or Business Analytics.
  • Cost Estimating, Budget/Financial Management, Systems Engineering, or Data Analytics. Must have a minimum of 7 years' experience with a bachelor's degree or 6 years' experience with a master's degree.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills
  • Exceptionally strong analytical skills and be detail oriented
  • Must possess or be eligible to obtain and maintain a DoD Secret clearance

Desired Experience:

  • Strong knowledge of MS Office with demonstrated experience in Excel, including advanced functions, pivot tables, and queries
  • Working knowledge ACEIT, @Risk, Crystal Ball or other similar parametric and cost risk tools
  • Membership and certification in International Cost Estimating and Analysis Association (ICEAA)
  • Knowledge of planning, formulating and applying DoD Planning, Programming, Budgeting and Execution System (PPBES) methods to develop and interpret information that assists management with decision making, policy formulation, or other managerial functions
  • Must Work independently and conduct strategic high-level coordination activities
  • Must be a self-starter able to support multiple complex projects simultaneously

Vali, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.


Vali logo

About Vali

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Government relations and lobbying services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Huntsville, AL, US

Year founded

2017