1

Economic Developer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Economic Development Manager

Perris, CA ยท On-site

$70.72 - $94.78/hr

Render technical assistance to private developers, citizen groups, nonprofit foundations, public ... Develop implementation strategies in the review and evaluation of economic development proposals ...

Economic Development Manager

Downey, CA ยท On-site

$93K - $115K/yr

... with developers, brokers, commercial real estate professionals, site selectors, and business ... Demonstrated knowledge of Economic development; knowledge of economics and procedural requirements ...

Economic Development Manager Responsibilities: * Prepare and present monthly, quarterly and annual ... Demonstrated ongoing AI skill development (e.g., prompt/context engineering, agent orchestration ...

Economic Development Manager Responsibilities: * Prepare and present monthly, quarterly and annual ... Demonstrated ongoing AI skill development (e.g., prompt/context engineering, agent orchestration ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Economic Developer information

See California salary details

$16

$65

$100

How much do economic developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for economic developer in California is $65.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45.53 and $84.71 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.

What are popular job titles related to Economic Developer jobs in California?

For Economic Developer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Economic Developer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $136,846 per year, or $65.8 per hour.

Economic Development Director

Big-Valley-Rancheria

Lakeport, CA โ€ข On-site

$120 - $160/hr

Other

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

POSITION SUMMARY:Under the general direction of the Tribal Administrator, the Economic Development Director plans, organizes, and implements economic development strategies and initiatives that support the Tribeโ€™s long-term economic growth and sustainability. Responsibilities include business retention and expansion, business attraction, redevelopment planning, grant and partnership development, and coordination of community and infrastructure initiatives related to economic development.The Director performs a wide range of administrative, professional, technical, and project management duties while collaborating with Tribal departments, businesses, governmental agencies, and external partners to strengthen and diversify the Tribal economy. The position operates with a high degree of independent judgment while coordinating major initiatives and policy recommendations through the Tribal Administrator.ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following:The duties listed below are representative and not intended to be a comprehensive list. The incumbent may be required to perform additional duties as needed.Develop and implement the Tribe's Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy, ensuring alignment with the Tribe's strategic priorities, long-term sustainability goals, and community needs.Identify, evaluate, and develop new revenue-generating opportunities through Tribal enterprise development, strategic partnerships, commercial ventures, tourism, renewable energy, housing, infrastructure, land development, and other diversified economic initiatives.Provide strategic oversight and support for Tribal enterprises by evaluating operational and financial performance, identifying expansion opportunities, conducting feasibility analyses, and recommending improvements that strengthen long-term profitability and sustainability.Lead and manage economic development projects from concept through implementation, including redevelopment initiatives, infrastructure improvements, business attraction, development negotiations, and community development projects.Conduct feasibility studies, market analyses, financial modeling, and return-on-investment (ROI) analyses to evaluate proposed projects, investments, and development opportunities.Coordinate pre-development activities, including site selection, land use planning, environmental review, permitting, infrastructure planning, engineering coordination, and project due diligence.Develop and manage the department budget, establish annual work plans and performance objectives, and oversee departmental operations, administrative functions, documentation, and workflow processes.Supervise, mentor, and evaluate assigned staff, consultants, contractors, and project teams, fostering professional development, accountability, and high performance.Identify, pursue, secure, and administer grant funding from Tribal, federal, state, and private sources, including preparing grant applications, managing budgets, ensuring compliance, monitoring expenditures, and completing required reporting.Coordinate with Tribal departments, governmental agencies, funding organizations, private developers, financial institutions, and community partners to successfully implement economic development initiatives and leverage available resources.Analyze economic conditions, demographic trends, and market opportunities to support business attraction, business retention, workforce development, investment decisions, and long-term economic planning.Develop and maintain strategic partnerships with Tribal, local, regional, state, and federal agencies, educational institutions, private industry, investors, and community organizations to advance Tribal economic opportunities.Represent the Tribe in meetings, negotiations, conferences, and public forums, promoting investment opportunities and fostering positive relationships with prospective businesses, developers, investors, and strategic partners.Prepare reports, presentations, resolutions, business cases, and policy recommendations for the Tribal Administrator, Business Committee, Tribal Council, and other governing bodies regarding economic development initiatives and investment opportunities.Negotiate and coordinate development agreements, contracts, memoranda of understanding, leases, requests for proposals (RFPs), and other business agreements, subject to Tribal legal review and established approval processes.Conduct community outreach and stakeholder engagement activities to gather input, communicate project progress, build consensus, and promote transparency throughout economic development initiatives.Develop and implement departmental policies, procedures, and internal controls to ensure operational efficiency, fiscal accountability, regulatory compliance, and effective project management.Perform other related duties as assigned in support of the Tribe's economic development objectives.Perform other duties as assigned.Knowledge and SkillsPrinciples and practices of economic development, including business attraction, retention, and redevelopmentPublic administration and Tribal governance structuresStrategic planning, project management, and program evaluationMarket analysis, economic forecasting, and data interpretationContract negotiation and developmentApplicable federal, state, and Tribal laws, regulations, and policiesEconomic development financing tools and incentives (Tribal and general economic development tools preferred)AbilityLead and manage economic development programs and initiativesExercise sound judgment and decision-makingPrepare clear, concise reports and presentationsAnalyze complex issues and develop effective solutionsCommunicate effectively both orally and in writingBuild and maintain effective working relationships with diverse stakeholders #J-18808-Ljbffr