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Economic Developer Jobs in Georgia (NOW HIRING)

Experience working with community leaders, economic developers and/or chambers of commerce; * Excellent verbal and written communication skills; * Experience presenting to large and small groups;

Qualifications * -Bachelor's degree in Business, Economics, Engineering, Finance, or a related field. * -3?5 years of relevant experience in strategy planning, corporate planning, business analysis ...

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Chemical Process Engineer

Douglas, GA · On-site

$75K - $90K/yr

Chemical Process Engineer Reports to: Project Development Manager Education and Experience : A ... A sound understanding of fundamental economics relating to process design and project ...

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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 Aug 22, 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 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 Georgia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 6% Contract, and 3% Nights. 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.

Senior International Trade Manager

Georgia

Atlanta, GA

$78K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

Explore a World of Opportunity with the State of Georgia!

We are the force that drives Georgia!
Georgia State Government is a large enterprise, composed of various agencies and entities with a common goal to improve the lives of Georgia's more than 10 million citizens!
Join Team Georgia and impact lives everyday while receiving a robust benefits package designed for every stage of your career!

Job Title:

Senior International Trade Manager

Job Requisition ID:

JR0000000042

Number of Openings:

0

Shift:

Day (United States of America)

Compensation Details:

85,000 - 93,000

Job Description:

Georgia Department of Economic Development

Position Announcement

Title:

Senior International Trade Manager

Entry Salary:

$78,000-$85,000

Division:

International Trade

Location:

Atlanta, GA

Duties and Responsibilities:

The Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) is the state's sales and marketing arm. It is Georgia's lead agency for attracting new business investment, encouraging the expansion of existing industry and small businesses, and locating new markets for Georgia products. As the state's official destination marketing organization, it drives traveler visitation and promotes the state as a location for film and digital entertainment projects. GDEcD is responsible for planning and mobilizing state resources for economic development, fostering innovation and the arts to drive opportunity from the mountains to the coast.

Georgia's nationally recognized Trade team works to bolster Georgia exports and brand the state as a competitive source of quality products and services. The team includes International Representatives located in more than a dozen strategic global markets who assist Georgia companies with expanding their sales worldwide. GDEcD's Trade professionals provide Georgia businesses with the global insight and connections they need to successfully diversify their international customer base.

The Senior International Trade Manager reports to the Division Director, International Trade and works directly with the Georgia aerospace sector, providing export counseling to increase international sales, and working in partnership with the economic development community to educate and inform how exports are an economic development tool. Primary responsibilities include:

  • Assist qualified industry exporters to develop or increase exports through one-on-one export consultation, development of an international business strategy and connections to qualified international contacts;
  • Develop a creative and effective aerospace sector focused trade promotion program to expand the industry client base and increase aerospace exports statewide;
  • Build out a sector-focused outreach initiative, connecting with exporters, trade partners and industry associations, optimizing export service delivery to the statewide business community;
  • Manage trade promotion events including tradeshows, in-bound and out-bound buyer delegations and export seminars;
  • Perform research on the aerospace industry i.e. potential international markets, market trends, trade policies, and other research related to industry export development; and
  • Mentor junior International Trade staff on best practices for export counseling, client engagement, and Salesforce reports follow up.
  • Other responsibilities include working closely with federal, state and local export promotion partners including the Small Business International Development Center, EXIM Bank, and the U.S. Commercial Service.

Minimum Qualifications and Competencies:

  • Bachelor's degree in international business/trade/economics or closely related field AND five years of experience in either international sales and marketing in the private sector or in export promotion with a state or federal trade promotion agency.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Minimum Qualifications and Competencies, continued:

  • Focus on collaborative approaches to project management;
  • Detail oriented with ability to manage and execute multiple projects simultaneously;
  • Experience presenting to large and small groups;
  • High proficiency with MS Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint); and
  • Must maintain a valid State of Georgia driver's license and be able and willing to travel throughout the state

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Master's degree in international business/trade AND ten years of experience in either international sales and marketing in the private sector or in export promotion with a state or federal trade promotion agency.
  • Knowledge of the aerospace and MRO sector and have longstanding relations with key contacts at the federal and state levels;
  • Knowledge of Georgia's strategic industries, exports and the sectors' economic impact on the state;
  • Team player with excellent team building and leadership skills;
  • Focus on collaborative approaches to project management;
  • Experience working with community leaders, economic developers and/or chambers of commerce;
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills;
  • Experience presenting to large and small groups;
  • High proficiency with MS Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint); and Proficiency working with Salesforce CRM software.

Travel Required?

Yes, statewide and international

Nights, Weekends Required?

Yes, as necessary

Please note, if travel is required, the selected candidate will be required to pay travel expenses (hotel, meals, etc.) up front and will be reimbursed within one week of expense statement approval. GDEcD is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in a related field from an accredited college or university AND Three years of related experience OR One year of experience required at the lower level Marketing Spec 2 (GSP071) or position equivalent.

Equal Employment Opportunity Employer

The State of Georgia does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, or other protected categories in employment or the provision of services.
Qualified applicants may request reasonable accommodation when needed during the application and/or screening process by contacting the appropriate agency Human Resources department.