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Economic Developer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Senior Project Engineer

Denison, IA ยท On-site

$95 - $125/hr

Proficient in engineering economics. * Proficient in AutoCAD. * Ability to travel to other locations. (50% of the time). * Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite. * Excellent written and oral ...

Sr Manager, FP&A

West Des Moines, IA ยท On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Bachelor's degree in Finance, Mathematics, Actuarial Science, Economics, Engineering, Statistics, Accounting, or a related quantitative field. * ASA, FSA, CFA, MBA, CPA, or advanced quantitative ...

Senior Process Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA ยท 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 ...

Transportation Engineer

Des Moines, IA ยท 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 ...

Transportation Engineer

Des Moines, IA ยท 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 ...

VP, State Policy

Audubon, IA ยท On-site

$180 - $260/hr

Bachelor degree Public Policy, Economics, Engineering, Political Science, Law Energy & equivalent work experience 10+ years of leadership experience in a managerial/supervisory role. * 15+ years of ...

Civil Engineer in Training

Des Moines, IA ยท 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 ...

US Tech - FTO Senior Associate

Des Moines, IA ยท On-site

$55K - $187K/yr

Analytics/Data Science, Artificial Intelligence/Robotics, Business Administration/Management, Computer Science/Information Systems, Economics, Engineering, Mathematics/Statistics - Demonstrating ...

Sr Manager, FP&A

West Des Moines, IA ยท On-site

$107K - $145K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Mathematics, Actuarial Science, Economics, Engineering, Statistics, or a related quantitative discipline. Drive. Discipline. Confidence. Focus. Commitment.

Sr Manager, FP&A

West Des Moines, IA ยท On-site

$107K - $145K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Mathematics, Actuarial Science, Economics, Engineering, Statistics, or a related quantitative discipline. Drive. Discipline. Confidence. Focus. Commitment.

Project Civil Engineer - Site Design

Des Moines, IA ยท On-site +1

$83K - $110K/yr

As a Civil Project Engineer, you will apply diversified knowledge of engineering principles and ... Performs process design calculations, prepares cost estimates, and uses economic analyses for ...

Manager, Modeling (Hybrid)

Cedar Rapids, IA ยท Hybrid

$136K - $165K/yr

Bachelor's degree in a technical/quantitative discipline such as statistics, math, actuarial science, computer science, economics, engineering, or a related business field such as finance * Eight ...

Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Mathematics, Actuarial Science, Economics, Engineering, Statistics, or a related quantitative discipline. Drive. Discipline. Confidence. Focus. Commitment.

Showing results 21-40

Economic Developer information

See Iowa salary details

$15

$62

$95

How much do economic developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 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 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 Iowa?

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

Infographic showing various Economic Developer job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,241 per year, or $62.6 per hour.

Senior Project Engineer

SIMPLY STAFFED

Denison, IA โ€ข On-site

$95 - $125/hr

Other

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Job Duties & Responsibilities of the Senior Project Engineer:
  • Develop engineering designs, material specifications, and project cost estimates.
  • Conduct feasibility studies and research to support design choices.
  • Responsible for ensuring designs meet required standards and codes, validating field work and creating as-built drawings.
  • Review engineering submissions for accuracy and compliance, coordinate project activities with vendors, contractors, and plant teams to stay on schedule and collaborate with management and engineering teams to implement plans.
  • Be accountable for directing vendors and contractors on layout planning and utility requirements.
  • Review consultant work and suggest changes as needed and maintain documentation, including manuals, drawings, specs, and vendor contacts.
  • Conduct planning and operational reviews during pre-project phases, define project scope, prepare proposals, and evaluate bids.
  • Submit regular status reports to management, assist with contract administration and prepares project documents and monitor installations to ensure they meet specs, budgets, and timelines.
  • Manage project budgets to ensure financial targets are met.
Education & Experience Requirements of the Senior Project Engineer:
  • Bachelorโ€™s Degree from an accredited four-year college or university in Engineering, Engineering Management, or related field and 5+ years of experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience, required.
  • Knowledge of engineering principles and techniques related to food processing and the meat industry, preferred.
  • Ability to apply sound engineering principles to operational and design issues.
  • Knowledge of installation and construction project scheduling.
  • Must possess Project Management skills; Contract Administration skills; National codes and standards interpretation skills. 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 locations. (50% of the time).
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite.
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills, organizational planning, teamwork, analytical reasoning, and adaptability.
  • Abi lity to work well with others in fast paced, dynamic environment.
  • Knowledge of engineering principles and techniques related to food processing and the meat industry, preferred.
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