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Economic Developer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Master's Degree in Statistics, Economics, Engineering, Finance, or related quantitative field * 8+ years of experience in Statistics, Economics, Engineering, related quantitative field, equivalent ...

Analyst, CXO Value Economics

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$85K - $120K/yr

We translate technical outcomes into economic and strategic impact-empowering CISOs, CDOs, CIOs and ... Collaborate with sales engineers, solution architects, product teams and customer success to align ...

AI and Data Science Lead

Lisle, IL · On-site

$191.20K - $286.80K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Statistics, Data Science/Analytics, Management Information Systems, Mathematics, Natural Science, Economics, Engineering or similar quantitative field and at ...

Mid-Level Consulting Analyst

Chicago, IL · On-site

$84.76K - $129.50K/yr

Bachelor's degree in engineering, economics, finance, business, public policy, or a related field. * 5+ years of experience in the energy/power industry, including experience in a consulting ...

Analyst (Temp to Hire)

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$30 - $50/hr

Econ One is an international economic consulting firm with offices located in some of the most ... Programming experience in SAS and Stata . * Strong quantitative and analytical skills, including ...

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Economic Developer information

See Illinois salary details

$15

$64

$98

How much do economic developer jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for economic developer in Illinois is $64.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44.71 and $83.17 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 Illinois as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $134,367 per year, or $64.6 per hour.

Economic Development Coordinator

Village of Hanover Park, IL

Hanover Park, IL • On-site

$96.47K - $101K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

Salary: $96,465.00 - $101,000.00 Annually
Location : Village Hall - 2121 Lake Street, Hanover Park, IL 60133, IL
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 04302026
Department: Community Development
Division: Economic Development
Opening Date: 05/06/2026
The Village of Hanover Park is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
JOB SUMMARY
HIRING SALARY RANGE: $96,465 - $101,000
FULL SALARY RANGE: $96,465 - $125,729
OUR AWESOME BENEFITS INCLUDE:
  • Paid personal, vacation, holiday, and sick days
  • Life insurance policy equal to your annual salary (paid by the Village)
  • Up to $1,000 in language proficiency pay
  • Pension with employer contribution
  • Medical insurance with only an 11% employee contribution
  • Free single dental insurance
  • Annual Employee Awards and Appreciation Event
  • Annual Employee Picnic
  • Annual Holiday Party
  • Wellness events

Under the direction of the Director of Community and Economic Development, the Economic Development Coordinator will focus on attracting new businesses and development, including redevelopment and revitalization, while proposing creative solutions to development challenges. Serve as the primary point of contact for business inquires, concerns, and assistance.
This position will serve as a liaison to the Economic Development Committee. Experience with TIF districts is preferred. The role also assists in providing regular economic development updates to the Village Board and offers recommendations for incentive programs such as the Façade Improvement Grant.
Experience in marketing, social media, and graphic design is a plus.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Actively purses new development and businesses and assists developers and businesses through the approval process, including developing and recommending strategies for incentives, marketing, and related initiatives.
  • Builds and maintains strong, collaborative relationships with business and property owners, developers, and commercial real estate professionals through proactive outreach and regular site visits.
  • Cultivates and maintains relationships with private sector, regional, and governmental partners, including the Park District and the Chamber of Commerce.
  • Administers and promotes the Village's TIF programs and oversees local, state, and federal incentive initiatives.
  • Conducts research and analysis on market trends, economic conditions, and development opportunities; prepares financial and economic analyses to support business proposals and Village initiatives.
  • Maintains and leverages economic development data, including available sites, to attract and support businesses and developers, while providing guidance on market advantages, site availability, development processes, and incentive programs.
  • Stays current on economic development trends and best practices and advises executive leadership and the Village Board on strategic initiatives, emerging opportunities, and approaches to attract and retain targeted retail and other desired uses.
  • Collaborates with Village staff to develop and produce marketing materials that promote the Village both locally and nationally, which may include managing and marketing events.
  • Demonstrates working knowledge of public and private financing programs, including TIF financing and other incentive programs.

QUALIFICATIONS
  • Possesses strong knowledge, skills, and abilities in analytical thinking, project management, planning, and negotiation.
  • Demonstrates the ability to respond to evolving market conditions and community needs with flexibility, creativity, and effective solutions.
  • Skilled in designing and implementing initiatives that support community goals, including business recruitment, workforce development, and grant-funded projects.
  • Able to provide guidance to businesses, entrepreneurs, and community organizations on permitting, funding opportunities, and economic development programs.
  • Experienced in working across public and private sectors, coordinating with multiple stakeholders, and managing collaborative initiatives.
  • Exceptional communication skills.
  • Bilingual or multilingual proficiency is a plus.

EDUCATION &/OR EXPERIENCE
  • Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Economics, Urban Planning, or Public Administration.
  • Minimum of four (4) years of experience in local government, quasi-governmental, or the private sector, demonstrating success in economic development or a similar field.
  • Strong verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with diverse populations.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Canva, or other graphic design programs.
  • Demonstrated experience with TIF and/or negotiating development agreements is preferred.
  • CEcD certification is a plus.

The Village Of Hanover Park offers a comprehensive benefit package including vacation, holiday, and sick time as well as medical, dental and life insurance.
Click for detailed overview of our Non-Union benefit package.