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Economic Developer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Victoria

Economic Development Director

Victoria, TX

$110.90K - $134.42K/yr

This position serves as a primary liaison with developers, business leaders, regional partners, and ... Coordinates economic development efforts between, but not limited to, including the City, Victoria ...

Harris County

Economic Development Director

Houston, TX · On-site

$83.20K/yr

The Economic Development Director serves as the senior leader responsible for implementing ... Market designated Opportunity Zones to investors; connect developers with Qualified Opportunity ...

DirectedLINK LLC

Economic Research Analyst

San Diego, CA · Hybrid

$55 - $86/hr

Senior Economic Research Analyst Employment Type: Contract Compensation Range: $55.56 to $86.12 per ... programming skills using R, SQL, Python, or comparable analytical tools • Ability to document ...

AECOM

Mineral Economist

Salt Lake City, UT

Work closely with mining engineers, geologists, processing engineers, and environmental specialists to integrate technical inputs into economic and financial models. * Support economic evaluations ...

AECOM

Mineral Economist

Salt Lake City, UT

Work closely with mining engineers, geologists, processing engineers, and environmental specialists to integrate technical inputs into economic and financial models. * Support economic evaluations ...

AECOM

Mineral Economist

Denver, CO

Work closely with mining engineers, geologists, processing engineers, and environmental specialists to integrate technical inputs into economic and financial models. * Support economic evaluations ...

AECOM

Mineral Economist

Tucson, AZ · On-site

Work closely with mining engineers, geologists, processing engineers, and environmental specialists to integrate technical inputs into economic and financial models. * Support economic evaluations ...

AECOM

Mineral Economist

Salt Lake City, UT

Work closely with mining engineers, geologists, processing engineers, and environmental specialists to integrate technical inputs into economic and financial models. * Support economic evaluations ...

AECOM

Mineral Economist

Salt Lake City, UT

Work closely with mining engineers, geologists, processing engineers, and environmental specialists to integrate technical inputs into economic and financial models. * Support economic evaluations ...

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How much do economic developer jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for economic developer in the United States is $66.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46.15 and $85.82 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.

More about Economic Developer jobs
What states have the most Economic Developer jobs? States with the most job openings for Economic Developer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Economic Developer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Economic Developer jobs are:
Economic Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Economic Developer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $138,662 per year, or $66.7 per hour.
Economic Development Director

Economic Development Director

City of Victoria, TX

Victoria, TX • On-site

$110.90K - $134.42K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Salary: $110,896.33 - $134,419.79 Annually
Location : 700 Main Center, Victoria, TX
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 23-00610
Department: Economic Development
Division: Economic Development
Opening Date: 04/03/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
JOB SUMMARY
Under general direction, leads the implementation of the City of Victoria's Economic Development Strategic Plan by coordinating partnerships, driving business recruitment and retention efforts, and supporting strategic growth initiatives. This position serves as a primary liaison with developers, business leaders, regional partners, and governmental agencies to promote a pro-business environment and attract new investment.
The role manages the Victoria Sales Tax Development Corporation (Type B) and departmental budgets, ensuring alignment with City Council goals, while advancing redevelopment initiatives, overseeing incentive programs, and supporting funding opportunities. Provides data-driven analysis, reports, and recommendations to leadership and plays a key role in shaping economic growth and long-term community success.
PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include any of the following representative duties, knowledge, and skills. This list is ILLUSTRATIVE ONLY and is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and duties performed by incumbents of this class. Employees are required to be in attendance and prepared to begin work at their assigned work location on the specified days and hours. Factors such as regular attendance at the job are not routinely listed in job descriptions but are an essential function. Essential duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following:
  • Spearheads the implementation of the Economic Development Strategic Plan for the City of Victoria.
  • Oversees the departmental budget and financial activities related to economic development initiatives and partner organizations, while contributing to the preparation of the City's annual budget. Coordinates economic development efforts between, but not limited to, including the City, Victoria Port Authority, Victoria Regional Airport, Victoria County, A&M-Victoria, Victoria College, Workforce Solutions Golden Crescent, Victoria Sales Tax Development Corporation (VSTDC), and the Victoria Economic Development Corporation (VEDC).
  • Provides leadership in developing short- and long-term economic and community development plans, including conducting research, preparing studies, reports, and recommendations, and proactively collaborating with the City's Planning Department on initiatives related to future land use.
  • Prepares and maintains data related to demographics, utilities, taxes, transportation, community services, financing tools, and incentives to respond to requests for information for economic development purposes and comprehensive reports as required.
  • Provides professional economic development guidance; assists with application and permitting processes; and serves as an advocate for the City's economic development priorities, ordinances, and goals. Extends this advocacy through coordination with external partners, including the County and Council of Governments (e.g., CEDS), ensuring the City of Victoria maintains a strong and active presence in regional initiatives.
  • Works closely with the Victoria Chamber of Commerce, A&M-Victoria Small Business Development Center, VEDC and various other Boards and Commissions to identify areas of concern to effectively foster a "pro-business" environment for the City of Victoria.
  • Works to attract prospective commercial and retail developments to the area with the use of a well-defined marketing strategy.
  • Establishes relationships with existing and new developers to identify growth opportunities in the area.
  • Promotes business retention and expansion ("BRE") by building strong relationships with local employers and/or business owners.
  • Maintains detailed and accurate documentation of all interactions with local employers and business owners as part of the City's Business Retention and Expansion (BRE) program.
  • Oversee real estate and redevelopment initiatives, including City-owned properties and negotiation of development agreements.
  • Identifies and pursues funding opportunities from public and private sources for economic development and community growth. Serve as primary point of contact, in coordination with the Victoria Economic Development Corporation (VEDC), for the Governor's Office of Economic Development & Tourism, commercial developers, site selectors, brokers and entrepreneurs.
  • Serves as a liaison with various local, State, and Federal agencies; coordinates projects with agencies as necessary and appropriate.
  • Provides information and makes presentations to supervisors, boards, commissions, civic groups, businesses, individuals, and the public related to economic development issues, programs, services, and plans.
  • Manages market incentive programs such as tax abatements, grants, and public-private partnerships.
  • Establishes relationships with foreign direct investment stakeholders such as international counterparts and the U.S. Commercial Service.
  • Attends City Council, Victoria Sales Tax Corporation, Downtown TIRZ, Housing Finance Corporation, and Public Facility Corporation meetings and work sessions, as needed to support the economic development needs of the City.
  • Attends and participates in industry-related professional associations, conventions, conferences, and trade shows including continuing education opportunities.
  • Performs related duties as required or assigned.

PHYSICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS
• Work is performed in a standard office environment with frequent meetings and site visits.
• Attendance at evening meetings, community events and occasional travel is required.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
Education:
Bachelor's degree in Economic Development, Business Administration, Public Administration, Urban Planning or related field AND seven (7) years of progressively responsible experience in community or economic development; OR an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
Knowledge of:
  • Applicable local, state, and federal laws, codes, regulations, and ordinances
  • General office operations and administrative functions
  • Records management and retention requirements
  • Supervisory principles
  • Budget development and administration
  • Data analysis and reporting principles
  • Economic development program planning and administration
  • Grant and contract management
  • Municipal planning and development processes

Skill in:
  • Strong knowledge of economic development tools, incentives, and financing mechanisms.
  • Understanding of real estate development underwriting preferred.
  • Ability to interpret plans, codes, and ordinances.
  • Excellent communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills.
  • Ability to manage budgets, organize priorities, and meet deadlines.
  • Effective leadership and supervision of staff.
  • Proficiency in data entry, recordkeeping, and maintaining accurate files.
  • Ability to prepare clear, concise reports and present to varied audiences.
  • Ability to interact tactfully and professionally with staff, agencies, and the public.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office and familiarity with GIS, AI, CRM systems or economic development software.

Required Contacts:
  • Employee has direct contact with citizens and all levels of employees when answering inquiries.

License and Certification Requirements:
  • Must possess a valid State driver's license that meets the city guideline.
  • CEcD, EDFP, or EDP certification or completion of recognized economic development program (e.g. PCED, IEDC, GrowAmerica, or TEDC), is preferred.

The City of Victoria offers a complete benefits package to full-time employees that includes but not limited to: health, dental and vision insurance, Flexible Spending Account (FSA), Health Savings Account (HSA), Texas Municipal Retirement System (TMRS) with a 2:1 City match, short and long-term disability, holidays, vacation, sick leave, paid parental leave, longevity pay and credit union.
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Please visit the Human Resources Department's benefits page for more details.
01
Describe your experience with development agreements, incentives, or public-private partnerships. How do you structure deals to balance developer interests with community and municipal goals?
02
In real estate development project, which of the following is the most important first step?
  • Selecting a contractor and beginning preliminary construction planning
  • Conducting a market analysis to assess demand, pricing, and absorption rates
  • Finalizing architectural design and site plans
  • Securing financing and investor commitments

03
Do you have a bachelor's degree in Economic Development, Business Administration, Public Administration, Urban Planning?
  • Yes
  • No
  • I do not have a bachelor's degree, but I do have a combination of 7+ years of experience and education.

04
Do you have seven (7) years of economic development, tourism, public relations, non-profit association, or related field experience?
  • Yes
  • No
  • I do not have seven (7) years of experience, but I do have a combination of education and experience in economic development or a related field.

Required Question

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