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Economic Developer Jobs in Mississippi (NOW HIRING)

Senior Roadway Engineer

Jackson, MS

$91K - $125K/yr

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

Senior Roadway Engineer

Jackson, MS · On-site

$91K - $125K/yr

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

Plant Engineer II

Laurel, MS · On-site

$90 - $125/hr

* Provide on demand mechanical engineering support for operations, maintenance, and turnaround groups ... and economics. * Ability to read, analyze and interpret general business periodicals, common ...

MGR ENGINEERING 2 Location: Pascagoula, Mississippi, United States Date: Aug 24, 2026 Req ID: 49261 ... the economic growth of Alabama. For nearly 85 years, we've designed, built and maintained ...

MGR ENGINEERING 2 Location: Pascagoula, Mississippi, United States Date: Aug 24, 2026 Req ID: 49261 ... the economic growth of Alabama. For nearly 85 years, we've designed, built and maintained ...

MGR ENGINEERING 2 Location: Pascagoula, Mississippi, United States Date: Aug 24, 2026 Req ID: 49261 ... the economic growth of Alabama. For nearly 85 years, we've designed, built and maintained ...

System Engineer

Brookhaven, MS · On-site

$71 - $98/hr

The System Engineer focuses on troubleshooting, maintaining, and stabilizing complex electro ... As the backbone of commerce the Symbotic platform transforms the flow of goods and the economics of ...

The System Engineer focuses on troubleshooting, maintaining, and stabilizing complex electro ... As the backbone of commerce the Symbotic platform transforms the flow of goods and the economics of ...

The System Engineer focuses on troubleshooting,maintaining, and stabilizing complex electro ... As the backbone of commerce the Symbotic platform transforms the flow of goods and the economics of ...

Provide on demand mechanical engineering support for operations, maintenance, and turnaround groups ... and economics. * Ability to read, analyze and interpret general business periodicals, common ...

Provide on demand mechanical engineering support for operations, maintenance, and turnaround groups ... and economics. * Ability to read, analyze and interpret general business periodicals, common ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Philadelphia, MS · On-site

$62K - $80K/yr

Conduct economic analysis and return-on-investment studies for capital expenditures and process ... Manufacturing Engineering coursework or experience. * Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma training.

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Economic Developer information

See Mississippi salary details

$15

$63

$96

How much do economic developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for economic developer in Mississippi is $63.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43.70 and $81.30 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 Mississippi?

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

Infographic showing various Economic Developer job openings in Mississippi as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $131,323 per year, or $63.1 per hour.

Community and Economic Development Specialist I

Pearl, MS

Central Mississippi Planning And Development District

$40K - $45K/yr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

COMMUNITY AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST I
The Central Mississippi Planning amp; Development District has promoted regional excellence since 1968. We aim to assist our member governments with creative regional solutions to relevant and emerging issues.
JOB DESCRIPTION
Classification: Non-Exempt
Department: Planning
Reports to: Director of Planning amp; Management Division
Summary/Objective
This position is responsible for technical work involved in the planning, preparation and implementation of regional short-range community development programs and projects. Incumbents assigned to this classification are responsible for specific economic development and community development activities as directed. The work involves considerable contact with localities within the District.
Essential Functions
Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
Responsible for grant administration to include approving invoices, tracking spending, ensure grant compliance, financial quarterly reporting, environmental assessments, public hearings, etc for Delta Regional Authority and Community Development Block Grants. Procurement, collection, and distribution of documents to the appropriate persons.
Assist with environmental clearance for Community and Economic projects as needed for CDBG grants.
File maintenance for grant sources.
Assist with various internal administrative tasks to maintain the Districts EDA eligibility and in fulfillment of the Districts Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS).
Prepare correspondence, graphs, charts, and reports for grant applications and administration assistance.
Monitor the department's budgets and prepare monthly updates.
Attends numerous meetings, conferences, and seminars to view models and examples of projects that could be used within the District and for general educational development.
Other tasks as assigned.
Competencies
Planning and Organizing
Communication
Initiative/Independence
Customer Orientation
Supervisory Responsibility
This position has no supervisory responsibilities.
Work Environment
While performing the duties of this position, the employee may travel by automobile or airplane and be exposed to changing weather conditions.
Physical Demands
The physical demands described here represent those that an employee must meet to perform the essential functions of this job successfully.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee is regularly required to stand, walk, and sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; and reach with hands and arms. The employee frequently lifts and moves up to 20 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
Position Type/Expected Hours of Work
This is a full-time position. Days and hours of work are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Travel
Travel is primarily local, with some out-of-area and overnight travel expected.
Required Education and Experience
A Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited four-year college or university in a related field of study.
OR
An associate’s degree or technical certificate in administrative assistance or business-related field from an accredited community college or technical training institute and two (2) years of full-time experience in related work.
OR
Four (4) years of experience in related work.
Additional Eligibility Qualifications
Strong organizational, project management, problem-solving skills and impeccable multi-tasking abilities are necessary.
Demonstrate the ability to handle difficult situations while maintaining a professional demeanor tactfully.
Ability to speak confidently and effectively, present information, and respond to questions from groups of government officials, clients, customers, and the public.
Strong interpersonal skills, including experience building and maintaining relationships with a diverse network of individuals and organizations.
Self-motivation, enthusiasm, and willingness to learn are essential to this role.
Excellent proofreading and editing skills with strong attention to detail are required.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office products (Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint) is required.
Must have and maintain a valid Mississippi driver's license.
Other Duties
Assist in preparing grant applications, including binding, as needed.
Maintain and organize all files from all grant sources applied and administered by CMPDD’s Economic and Development area.
Handle procurement for engineering and construction related to grants.
Draft documents (press reports, resolutions of matching funds, mid-year reports, etc.)
Communications with Municipalities and Non-Profits.
Assist with the Annual MAPDD Conference as assigned.
Accepts and routes calls and messages for the Economic and Development Area.
Mailing, delivery, and assistance with grant applications.
Assist with the Front Desk on a rotation schedule.
Please note that this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time, with or without notice.
AAP/EEO Statement
CMPDD provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.