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Economic Developer Jobs in Georgia (NOW HIRING)

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Economic Developer information

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$13

$56

$86

How much do economic developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for economic developer in Georgia is $56.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38.99 and $72.45 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs make $1,000,000 a year?

In the field of economic development, high-level executive roles such as Chief Economic Officer or Chief Development Officer can reach or exceed $1 million annually, especially in large organizations or government agencies. These positions typically require extensive experience, advanced degrees, and strong leadership skills. Other highly compensated roles in related fields may include successful entrepreneurs or investors, but such earnings are less common and often depend on business performance and market conditions.

What does an economic developer do?

An economic developer works to improve the economic well-being of a community by attracting new businesses, supporting existing industries, and creating jobs. They analyze economic data, develop strategic plans, and collaborate with government, businesses, and community stakeholders to promote growth and development.

What profession makes $400,000 a year?

In the field of economic development, senior roles such as Chief Economic Development Officer or Director can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $400,000 annually, especially in large organizations or high-cost regions. These positions typically require extensive experience, advanced degrees, and strong leadership skills, often supplemented by performance-based bonuses and benefits.

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.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

An economic developer typically earns less than $10,000 a month without a degree, as this role usually requires specialized education or experience. However, some high-paying sales, real estate, or entrepreneurial roles can reach or exceed this income level through commissions, business ownership, or self-employment, often requiring strong skills, networking, and industry knowledge.

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 popular job titles related to Economic Developer jobs in Georgia? For Economic Developer jobs in Georgia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Economic Developer jobs in Georgia look for? The top searched job categories for Economic Developer jobs in Georgia are:
Economic Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Economic Developer job openings in Georgia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $117,084 per year, or $56.3 per hour.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

City Of Douglasville

Douglasville, GA • On-site

$70K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

JOB SUMMARY


The Economic Development Manager supports the City’s economic development services, projects, and programs by analyzing, coordinating, and administering initiatives that promote business growth, redevelopment, and community investment. The position facilitates project processing and permitting for local businesses, monitors and evaluates economic trends using business license and business retention and expansion data, and serves as a resource to City staff, external agencies, and the public.

This role oversees Main Street initiatives through planning and direct supervision of the Main Street Coordinator.


ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

  • Conducts Geographic Information Systems (GIS) analysis and prepares mapping documents for clients, consultants, City staff, and developers to support business attraction, relocation, expansion, land use decisions, marketing, and sales tax analysis. Utilizes economic and demographic data from CoStar and other databases to support economic development initiatives.
  • Assists in the preparation of economic and community development reports for boards, commissions, committees, and other stakeholders; gathers, analyzes, and synthesizes data to support short- and long-term planning efforts.
  • Prepares meeting agendas, minutes, summaries, and informational materials as required.
  • Supports community and economic development projects throughout the City, including implementation of the Downtown Master Plan, Northside Redevelopment Plan, Urban Redevelopment Plan and other adopted plans through project coordination and analysis.
  • Manages and coordinates selected community and economic development projects that utilize tools to encourage revitalization and public improvement; identifies, evaluates, and recruits eligible projects for Tax Allocation District (TAD) grants and other incentive programs based on readiness and feasibility.
  • Advises and coordinates meetings and activities of the Downtown Development Authority, Urban Redevelopment Agency, and Public Arts Commission; provides technical guidance, prepares presentations, and ensures compliance with adopted plans, ordinances, and economic development goals.
  • Provides briefings, reports, and presentations to the Mayor and City Council as requested, communicating departmental information in a clear and professional manner.
  • Coordinates business initiatives with new and existing businesses within City limits; implements business retention and expansion efforts through outreach, site visits, meetings, and coordination with internal and external partners to strengthen the local business climate.
  • Exercises independent judgment in managing property leases for City-owned properties in the downtown area.
  • Builds and maintains relationships with businesses, property owners, developers, consultants, brokers, regional partners, and other stakeholders; serves as an advocate for economic development by providing customer-focused problem solving and assistance with application and permitting processes.
  • Supports additional initiatives consistent with the Downtown Master Plan, Urban Redevelopment Plan and Northside Redevelopment Plan; develops programs, tools, and promotional materials in coordination with communications staff to support small businesses and encourage investment.
  • Assists in coordinating major development projects citywide; prepares and maintains information related to utilities, taxes, zoning, transportation, financing tools, and incentives; and coordinates responses with other departments and external agencies.
  • Performs other related duties as required.

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

Bachelor’s Degree in Planning, Public Administration, Business Administration, Economics, or closely related field; five (5) years of professional experience related to economic development or working with small businesses.


CERTIFICATION, LICENSE, AND SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

None.


KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

  • Knowledge of economic development principles, strategies, incentives, financing tools, market, business, and economic trends.
  • Knowledge of research methods, statistical analysis techniques, and report preparation practices.
  • Knowledge of planning, zoning, development review, project processing, and permitting procedures, and applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations.
  • Knowledge of City organizational structure, departmental functions, records management practices, and modern office systems and technologies, including GIS.
  • Skill in using computer applications, including word processing, spreadsheets, databases, and GIS tools, to perform analysis and prepare reports, charts, graphs, and related materials.
  • Skill in clear and professional oral and written communication using standard English grammar and usage.
  • Ability to conduct research and prepare accurate analyses, reports, and recommendations to support economic development programs and projects.
  • Ability to interpret and apply policies, regulations, and development standards while exercising sound judgment and discretion.
  • Ability to represent the City effectively when working with boards, commissions, community groups, businesses, and the public.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships and coordinate activities across departments and with external agencies.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The work requires light physical activity, including prolonged sitting and standing; walking throughout City facilities and the community; occasional lifting, pushing, or pulling of light materials; frequent use of hands and fingers for handling documents and operating computers and office equipment; repetitive motion; and sufficient visual, hearing, and mental acuity to analyze data, communicate effectively, and perform detailed work.


WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work is performed in an office and community-based environment that requires responsiveness to changing priorities, multiple concurrent projects, and frequent interaction with City staff, businesses, boards, commissions, and the public.