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Economic Developer Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Senior Bridge Engineer

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$86.10K - $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 ...

Senior Bridge Engineer

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$86.10K - $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 ...

Senior Bridge Engineer

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$86.10K - $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 ...

Senior Bridge Engineer

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$86.10K - $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 ...

Senior Bridge Engineer

Mobile, AL · On-site

$81.90K - $111.20K/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 ...

Senior Bridge Engineer

Mobile, AL · On-site

$81.90K - $111.20K/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 ...

Senior Bridge Engineer

Mobile, AL · On-site

$81.90K - $111.20K/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 ...

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE Typically requires a bachelor's degree in Mathematics, Computer Science, Physics, Economics, Engineering, Statistics, Opersations Research, Quantitative Social Science or a ...

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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 Jun 1, 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 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 are Economic Developers?

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 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.

Infographic showing various Economic Developer job openings in Alabama as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $125,682 per year, or $60.4 per hour.

Senior Bridge Engineer

Thompson Engineering

Birmingham, AL • On-site

$86.10K - $117K/yr

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

Position Overview

Thompson Engineering is seeking a Senior Structural Engineer with specialized experience in bridge design to join our growing Structural Engineering Team. This role is ideal for a seasoned engineer with a strong background in the design of bridges for federal, state, and local government projects.

The primary responsibility of this position is to ensure the safety, strength, and integrity of structures we design. The successful candidate will demonstrate expertise in the application of AASHTO codes and state-specific transportation design procedures and will play a key role in the evaluation, design, and reporting of structural systems.


Key Responsibilities
  • Perform structural analysis, modeling, and design for a variety of public and private sector projects.

  • Focus on state and local highway bridge design, with additional work including:

    • Commercial building structures

    • Industrial structures (e.g., pipe racks, personnel platforms)

    • Heavy civil foundations

    • Marine and waterfront structures (e.g., piers, bulkheads, wharfs)

    • Retaining walls and similar infrastructure

  • Utilize OpenBridge (LEAP) software for bridge structural analysis.

  • Ensure compliance with state bridge bureau guidelines and specifications.

  • Select materials appropriate for each project to ensure durability and code compliance.

  • Produce technical reports, design documents, and support client communication.

  • Maintain high-quality deliverables and ensure accuracy in engineering documentation.

  • Manage time efficiently across multiple projects with minimal supervision.

  • Collaborate with project managers, contractors, and multidisciplinary teams.


Qualifications
  • Education:

    • Bachelor's degree in Civil/Structural Engineering from an ABET-accredited university

  • Experience:

    • Minimum 10 years of bridge design experience

  • Licensure:

    • Must have a current Professional Engineer (PE) license

  • Technical Skills:

    • Proficient in:

      • Structural FEA Analysis

      • OpenBridge (LEAP)

      • MicroStation

      • Microsoft Office (Word, Excel)

  • Certifications:

    • Not required

  • Physical Requirements:

    • Ability to work flexible schedules and overtime as needed

    • Must be able to sit and operate a computer for extended periods

    • Travel required to support projects (as needed).

About Thompson Engineering

Founded in 1953, Thompson Engineering has a longstanding reputation for delivering high-quality services in construction quality assurance, materials testing, inspection, and geotechnical analysis. Originally serving the Gulf Coast's industrial and infrastructure projects, we've grown into a multidisciplinary firm working on major transportation, economic development, and coastal projects.

Today, our teams lead projects that define skylines, coastlines, and transportation corridors across the Southeast. From early-stage environmental assessments and land surveys to cutting-edge design solutions and construction management, we are there from concept to completion.