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Economic Developer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

City of Mason City

City Engineer

Mason City, IA · On-site

$117K - $150K/yr

With a rich cultural heritage, vibrant arts scene, and strong economic development efforts, the ... Serve as chief engineering advisor to the City Administrator. Provide effective, professional ...

City of Mason City, IA

City Engineer

Mason City, IA · On-site

$117K - $150K/yr

Engineering Opening Date: 06/18/2026 Residency Requirement?: Yes Description The City of Mason City ... With a rich cultural heritage, vibrant arts scene, and strong economic development efforts, the ...

Reflik

Ruby Devloper

New York, IA · On-site

$106K - $145K/yr

Mentor junior engineers on software development best practices REQUIREMENTS: * BS/MS in Computer ... econometric analysis, and pricing best practices o Collaborates with Food & Beverage Chief ...

Reflik

Ruby Devloper

New York, IA

$106K - $145K/yr

Mentor junior engineers on software development best practices * REQUIREMENTS: * BS/MS in Computer ... econometric analysis, and pricing best practices o Collaborates with Food & Beverage Chief ...

HDR

Transportation Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$75K - $100K/yr

We bring together planners, engineers, architects, construction management staff, environmental, strategic communications, economists, management consultants and specialists across disciplines to ...

HDR

Transportation Engineer

Des Moines, IA

$75K - $100K/yr

We bring together planners, engineers, architects, construction management staff, environmental, strategic communications, economists, management consultants and specialists across disciplines to ...

HDR

Transportation Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$75K - $100K/yr

We bring together planners, engineers, architects, construction management staff, environmental, strategic communications, economists, management consultants and specialists across disciplines to ...

BSI Engineering LLC

Senior Process Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$102K - $132K/yr

Senior Process Engineer Your Role at BSI Our Process Engineers are responsible for designing safe and economic methods for clients to convert raw feed to modified products. The typical process ...

Stantec

Civil Engineer in Training

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$61K - $71K/yr

The result: vibrant economic centers, resilient neighborhoods, and welcoming places that feel like ... Your Opportunity As a Civil Engineer in Training in our Community Development Group, you will have ...

Transparent Search Group

Senior Project Engineer

Denison, IA · On-site

$92K - $120K/yr

Previous experience in the management of multi-million-dollar projects with large scopes, desirable. · Proficient in engineering economics. · Proficient in AutoCAD. · Ability to travel to other ...

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All JobsEconomic Developer JobsEconomic Developer Jobs in Iowa

Economic Developer information

See Iowa salary details

$15

$62

$95

How much do economic developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for economic developer in Iowa is $62.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43.37 and $80.62 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 Executive Officer can earn salaries exceeding $1 million annually, especially in large organizations or corporations. These positions typically require extensive experience, advanced degrees, and strong leadership skills, often complemented by performance-based bonuses and stock options.

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 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 are economic development jobs?

Economic development jobs involve planning and implementing strategies to improve the economic well-being of a community or region. Roles often include attracting new businesses, supporting existing industries, and fostering job creation, requiring skills in research, project management, and stakeholder engagement.

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 Iowa? For Economic Developer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Economic Developer jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Economic Developer jobs in Iowa are:
Economic Developer jobs near you
DVSA Program Housing and Economic Advocate

DVSA Program Housing and Economic Advocate

Catholic Charities

Council Bluffs, IA • On-site

$15.75 - $19.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Are you looking to make a real difference in the lives of others? Join the Catholic Charities team! For the last 100 years, we have had the distinct honor to provide help and hope for those in need. At Catholic Charities, our mission is to empower individuals and strengthen families. We do this through our vital programs including a food pantry, counseling services, emergency family shelter, community resource coordination, and domestic violence and sexual assault programming. We care for the dignity of the person, regardless of background and strive to provide unparalleled support for those in need.
The Catholic Charities' Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault program provides services to anyone faced with these issues through a 24-hour crisis phone line, emergency shelter, court advocacy and much more. This program is based in Council Bluffs, Iowa and serves nine counties in southwest Iowa: Audubon, Cass, Fremont, Harrison, Mills, Montgomery, Page, Pottawattamie, and Shelby. Our on-site emergency shelter provides a safe, confidential living for up to eight families at a time.
The Housing and Economic Advocate provides housing and economic support to domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking survivors in the nine-county service area of SW Iowa. This role works with survivors to assess strengths and barriers to housing and assists clients with obtaining transitional and permanent housing that best meets the needs of the survivor. Under the direction of the Shelter and Housing Coordinator, this role works with housing authorities and landlords to ensure survivors can exit homelessness quickly and maintain housing.
We Offer
  • Competitive pay
  • 35-hour workweek
  • Generous vacation and sick pay
  • 14 paid holidays
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Comprehensive benefits including Medical, Dental, Vision, and Flex Spending Plans
  • Employer-paid Life Insurance and Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • 403(b) retirement plan with employer matching
  • A supportive and uplifting working environment

Key Responsibilities
  • Assist survivors with arranging appropriate shelter, finding and maintaining housing to include supportive housing, low-cost rental, fair-market rental, and low-cost or fair-market homeownership programs. Assist survivors with securing transportation services when necessary.
  • Provide case management for survivors including assessment, goal planning, and regular contacts to assist them in attaining their goals.
  • Collaborate with survivors to determine their strengths, family needs, safety concerns, short and long term strategies to achieve housing objectives.
  • Connect survivors to mainstream resources (i.e., FIP, TANF, SSI/D and others).
  • Provide advocacy and assistance to help survivors remain safely in their own home including rental assistance, legal advocacy, court orders (restraining, no contact etc.), medical/behavioral healthcare, life skills, employment, transportation, and emergency assistance.
  • Build relationships with landlords and other housing providers to help survivors secure and maintain housing. Maintain a housing directory with documentation of all contacts with housing providers, regularly working with area programs to obtain the most up to date information.
  • Educate clients about tenant responsibilities and rights, financial management, and affordable housing opportunities. Facilitate/co-facilitate support and educational groups offered through the agency and within the nine-county service area on a rotating basis or as requested.
  • Document multiple sources of funds accurately to assist clients and maintain accurate records of expenditures.
  • Maintain working knowledge of the State of Iowa statutes and codes, landlord, and tenant codes, including services to victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and human trafficking. Work with survivors to help mediate landlord-tenant issues.
  • Follow up with survivors for up to six months via letter, telephone calls, or face to face communication to ensure safe and successful integration into housing.
  • Provide direct advocacy services to survivors including legal advocacy, individual or group counseling, and safety planning. Assist with DVSART 24 hour response to area hospitals.
  • Build community awareness and education of domestic violence and sexual assault throughout the service area. Work with Shelter and Housing and Economic teams to develop and present prevention and awareness campaigns, including Homeless Awareness Month. Present to schools, business partners, social service agencies, law enforcement, and others. Participate in community meetings and events in outreach counties to advocate and publicize services for survivors. Distribute agency materials throughout assigned areas. Some events may require working limited night or weekend hours.
  • Build and maintain collaborative relationships with local coalitions, task forces, human service agencies, religious and civic organizations, educational resources, and other community members.
  • Document all contact with victims in victim's file and in EmpowerDB database. Prepare statistical summaries and other reports as required.
  • Continually evaluate program services and make recommendations, contributing to the overall success of the program. Distribute surveys to clients following individual or group services to gather data for continuous improvement.

Requirements
  • Bachelor's Degree in Social Work, Sociology, Psychology, Criminal Justice, or related field; 1-2 years related job experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Solid knowledge of human and social service programs and practices.
  • Knowledge of appropriate intervention techniques for working effectively with a variety of issues related to sexual assault and domestic abuse.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Ability to effectively present information and respond professionally to inquiries from clients, regulatory agencies, and members of the community.
  • Excellent interpersonal skills. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with a wide variety of people having diverse social concerns and problems, while maintaining personal boundaries.
  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize effectively.
  • Good knowledge and familiarity with needs and resources in the community.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and related software. Ability to learn program specific software applications.

Additional Expectations
  • Must maintain the ability to work flexible hours. Some evening and weekend hours may be required.
  • Travel to our service area sites required on a regular basis. Overnight travel for continuing education required on a limited basis. Must have a valid driver's license and be able to successfully pass Motor Vehicle Record check. Must provide own transportation, meeting auto insurance coverage requirements, with mileage reimbursement provided.
  • Ability to pass a criminal background screening, including Child and Dependent Adult Abuse registry check is required. Compliance with Safe Environment training and monthly bulletins. FBI Fingerprinting is required.
  • Must maintain absolute confidentiality of information, written or verbal, according to policy and legal requirements.
  • Attend staff meetings, community meetings, approved seminars, agency trainings/retreats, and professional conferences.
  • Possess a strong commitment to the mission of Catholic Charities including the understanding of Catholic Social Teaching and ability to demonstrate the philosophy and values of the agency. Employees are expected to support the Catholic Social Teaching principles in public forum. Fulfillment of the employee's job responsibilities should be consistent with the teachings of the Catholic Church.

Certifications (Can be obtained after employment)
  • IowaCASA/ICADV Multi-Disciplinary Certified Advocate
  • Victim Counselor Certification
  • Blood Born Pathogen training (annually)
  • CPR certification (annually)
  • First Aid certification (every 3 years)
  • Mandatory Child Abuse and Dependent Adult training (every 5 years)

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