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Economic Development Analyst Jobs in Chicago, IL

Senior Financial Analyst

Chicago, IL · On-site

$88K - $109K/yr

... product development analysis, product portfolio analysis, profitability of new opportunities ... ongoing economic analysis of products including marketing programs, product pricing, business ...

Senior Financial Analyst

Chicago, IL · On-site

$88K - $109K/yr

... product development analysis, product portfolio analysis, profitability of new opportunities ... ongoing economic analysis of products including marketing programs, product pricing, business ...

Analyst

Chicago, IL · On-site

$74K - $82K/yr

From robust career development planning to competitive life and wellness benefits, AArete ... Degree in Business, Finance, Economics, Engineering, Data Analytics, or related field

Investor Relations Analyst

Evanston, IL · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

This individual will work closely with senior Business Development professionals to support the ... Undergraduate degree in Finance or Economics (or a closely related business degree) with strong ...

Analyst

Chicago, IL

$74K - $82K/yr

From robust career development planning to competitive life and wellness benefits, AArete ... Degree in Business, Finance, Economics, Engineering, Data Analytics, or related field

Publishes high quality, comprehensive analysis and research on industry sectors and companies and/or financial markets and economic development * Strong, broad institutional relationships

Senior Financial Analyst

Deerfield, IL · On-site

$79K - $127K/yr

... ongoing economic analysis of products including marketing programs, product pricing, business ... Assists in the development of the long-range financial plans and continuously analyzes operating ...

Senior Financial Analyst

Deerfield, IL · On-site

$79K - $127K/yr

... ongoing economic analysis of products including marketing programs, product pricing, business ... Assists in the development of the long-range financial plans and continuously analyzes operating ...

Showing results 41-60

Economic Development Analyst information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$32K

$75.5K

$134K

How much do economic development analyst jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development analyst in Chicago, IL is $75,529.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,100.00 and $89,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an economic development analyst, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Economic Development Analyst, you need strong skills in economic research, data analysis, and report writing, typically supported by a degree in economics, urban planning, or a related field. Familiarity with statistical software (such as SPSS, Stata, or R), GIS tools, and economic modeling systems is highly beneficial. Exceptional communication, critical thinking, and stakeholder engagement abilities help analysts present findings and collaborate with public and private partners. These skills are essential for providing actionable insights and supporting policies that drive sustainable regional growth.

What does an economic development analyst do?

An Economic Development Analyst researches and evaluates economic data to help governments, organizations, or communities make informed decisions about growth and development strategies. They analyze trends, assess the impact of proposed projects, and identify opportunities to stimulate local economies. Their work supports policy-making, investment decisions, and community planning with the goal of promoting sustainable economic growth and job creation.

What is the difference between Economic Development Analyst vs Urban Planner?

AspectEconomic Development AnalystUrban Planner
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in economics, urban planning, or related field; often some certificationsBachelor's or master's in urban planning, geography, or related field; certifications like AICP
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, economic development organizations, consulting firmsMunicipalities, government agencies, private planning firms
Industry UsageFocuses on economic growth, business attraction, and development projectsFocuses on land use, zoning, community development, and spatial planning

While both roles involve planning and development, Economic Development Analysts primarily focus on economic growth strategies and business development, whereas Urban Planners concentrate on land use, zoning, and community design. Both roles often collaborate but serve different aspects of community and economic growth.

What are some common challenges economic development analysts face when working with local governments or community stakeholders?

Economic Development Analysts often encounter challenges such as balancing the diverse interests of local governments, businesses, and community members. Navigating conflicting priorities—such as economic growth versus environmental concerns—can require strong communication and negotiation skills. Additionally, analysts must frequently interpret complex data to make recommendations that align with long-term strategic plans, sometimes with limited resources or tight deadlines. Building positive relationships with stakeholders and staying adaptable are key to overcoming these obstacles.
What are the most commonly searched types of Economic Development Analyst jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Economic Development Analyst jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Economic Development Analyst jobs in Chicago, IL? For Economic Development Analyst jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Economic Development Analyst jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Economic Development Analyst jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Infographic showing various Economic Development Analyst job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,529 per year, or $36.3 per hour.

$25 - $35/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Contract
Description
REPORTS TO: SBDC Director
BACKGROUND: Chinese Mutual Aid Association (CMAA) is a non-profit organization that assists immigrants, refugees and low-income families in Chicago and its suburbs. Founded in 1981 by ethnic Chinese refugees from Vietnam, the organization today has expanded to a staff of approximately three hundred employees who speak over twenty languages and assists immigrants from Asia, Africa, Europe, and Central and South America. CMAA services include after-school youth programming, job training and placement for adults, elderly care for seniors, and the Illinois Small Business Development Center.
JOB DESCRIPTION: The Illinois SBDC Business Advisor fosters a strong climate for small business growth by providing in-depth, confidential, and no cost business advising to small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs. The position of Business Advisor will be part time, dedicating seventy-five percent (75%) of their time providing business advice and twenty-five percent (25%) in reporting and other related activities. This position will be the primary business advisor for the center.
SPECIFIC DUTIES
  • Provide and facilitate free, in-depth, confidential individual business analyses and referrals to appropriate resources to active and aspiring entrepreneurs
  • Develop relationships with new clients and key stakeholders including, but not limited to, Small Business Administration (SBA), banks, Chambers of Commerce, economic development organizations, trade groups, educational institutions, legislators, and host organizations
  • Assist in the production of promotional materials for the center (e.g., flyers, newsletters, webinars, etc.)
  • Consistently maintain client database with appropriate records
  • Assist in the completion of monthly and quarterly reporting
  • Develop SBDC training programs and analyze impact on participants

Requirements
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
  • B.A. or B.S. degree in business, economics, accounting or equivalent field.
  • Experience in business management and/or financial business analysis (banking) is preferred
  • Excellent written and verbal communications skills
  • Interpersonal skills for interacting effectively with a diverse clientele and the small business community
  • Knowledge of computer applications (including Google Suite) for record keeping, web research, etc.
  • Strong organizational skills and sharp attention to detail

PREFERRED ABILITIES
  • Small Business Experience
  • Managerial (Personnel & Program) Experience
  • Financing/Lending
  • Strong analytical and innovative skills
  • Finance/ Accounting: Debt & Equity Finance
  • Sales and Marketing
  • Technology
  • Collaboration
  • Economic Development
  • Multi-tasking

Salary Description
$25-$35 Per Hour Based on Experience