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Economic Development Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Moncks Corner Police Department

The Economic Development Director serves as the Town's primary economic development professional and leads efforts to attract private investment, facilitate redevelopment projects, recruit and retain ...

New

Carboncountypa

Economic Development Director

Lehighton, PA · On-site

$65K - $80K/yr

Economic Development Specialist We are seeking a highly motivated Economic Development Specialist to join our team at the Carbon Chamber and Economic Development Organization (CCEDC) and the Carbon ...

City of Bowie

Economic Development Director

Bowie, MD · On-site

$125K - $155K/yr

Implementing the City's Economic Development Program in accordance with City Council policies, adopted plans and strategies. * Advising the City Manager, City Council, and other key internal ...

Exploreelginarea

Elgin Development Group (EDG) A Division of the Elgin Area Chamber of Commerce Economic Development Coordinator The Economic Development Coordinator supports the mission of the Elgin Development ...

City of Wichita

Economic Development Director

Wichita, KS · On-site

$150K - $179K/yr

As the City's chief economic development strategist, the director will collaborate with development professionals to set the vision for business recruitment, retention, redevelopment, and investment ...

Gulfshoresal

$103K/yr

Economic Development Supervisor: City Manager Salary: $72,173/year ($34.70/hour) - $103,748/year ($49.88/hour) Revision Date: 6/2026 About Us: The City of Craig provides a wide range of essential ...

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Economic Development information

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$155K

How much do economic development jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development in the United States is $103,020.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,500.00 and $124,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is economic development?

Economic development refers to the process by which the economic well-being and quality of life of a region, community, or country are improved. This typically involves efforts to create jobs, attract investment, support businesses, enhance infrastructure, and promote sustainable growth. Professionals in economic development work with government agencies, private sector partners, and community organizations to create strategies that foster economic opportunities and address local challenges. Their goal is to build resilient economies that benefit all residents.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an economic development professional?

To thrive as an Economic Development professional, you need a background in economics, public administration, or urban planning, often supported by a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a related field. Familiarity with data analysis tools, GIS software, project management platforms, and knowledge of relevant regulations or certifications like CEcD are essential. Strong communication, relationship-building, and problem-solving skills distinguish top performers in this role. These skills are vital for successfully attracting investment, fostering sustainable growth, and collaborating with stakeholders to drive community prosperity.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in economic development roles, and how can they be addressed?

Economic Development professionals often encounter challenges such as balancing the needs of diverse stakeholders, navigating complex regulatory environments, and securing funding for projects. Success in this field requires strong communication and negotiation skills to build consensus among government officials, business leaders, and community members. Proactively staying updated on policy changes, leveraging data-driven approaches, and building strong partnerships can help address these challenges and drive impactful outcomes.

What is the difference between Economic Development vs Urban Planner?

AspectEconomic DevelopmentUrban Planner
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in economics, public policy, or related field; often certifications in economic developmentBachelor's or master's in urban planning, geography, or related field; licensure may be required
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, economic development organizations, consulting firmsMunicipalities, government agencies, private planning firms
Industry UsageFocuses on economic growth, business attraction, and community developmentFocuses on land use, zoning, and urban design

While both roles aim to improve communities, economic development professionals focus on boosting local economies and attracting businesses, whereas urban planners concentrate on land use, zoning, and urban design to shape city landscapes.

More about Economic Development jobs

What cities are hiring for Economic Development jobs?

Cities with the most Economic Development job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Economic Development jobs?

The most popular types of Economic Development jobs are:

What states have the most Economic Development jobs?

States with the most job openings for Economic Development jobs include:

What are popular job titles for Economic Development?

Popular job titles for Economic Development:

Economic Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Economic Development job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,020 per year, or $49.5 per hour.

Regional Economic Development Director

Madison, WI • Remote

Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation
Finance and Insurance • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Wisconsin Economic Development Corporationexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Regional Economic Development Director
Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC)
Location: Remote (Wisconsin-based)
Reports To: Senior Economic Development Director

About WEDC

The Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) works with businesses, communities, and partners statewide to foster innovation, support job creation, and strengthen Wisconsin's competitive position. Driven by a mission to make Wisconsin the best place to live, work, and build a business, WEDC is a purpose-driven organization that values integrity, collaboration, and forward-thinking solutions, and invests in its people so they can help invest in Wisconsin's future.

WEDC is a Wisconsin-based organization with a remote-work-first environment. Remote work is expected to be performed in the state of Wisconsin.

Role Overview & Key Responsibilities

The Regional Economic Development Director serves as the primary WEDC representative for communities and businesses within an assigned region of Wisconsin. This role helps drive economic growth by connecting organizations with resources, providing strategic guidance, managing development projects, and building strong partnerships with local, regional, and statewide stakeholders.

The assigned territory includes Eau Claire, Chippewa, Dunn, Barron, Polk, St. Croix, and Pierce counties.

In this role, you will:

  • Serve as a trusted advisor to businesses, communities, and economic development partners within the assigned region
  • Identify and support business and community development opportunities through strategic consultation and resource deployment
  • Manage a portfolio of regional accounts and build strong relationships with local stakeholders and partner organizations
  • Review projects and provide recommendations related to economic and community development investments
  • Assist businesses and communities with financing strategies, program implementation, and access to available resources
  • Monitor project performance and support ongoing compliance and reporting activities
  • Collaborate with internal teams and external partners to advance regional economic development goals
  • Represent WEDC at meetings, conferences, public events, and speaking engagements throughout the region

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