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Economic Development Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL

Planner

Wood Dale, IL ยท On-site

$75 - $113/hr

The Planner will assist with development applications, zoning and land use reviews, staff reports, planning studies, comprehensive planning initiatives, and economic development activities. The ...

Government Affairs Specialist

Naperville, IL ยท On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

... * Assist in resolving government concerns and escalations related to construction activities ... Build partnerships with economic development organizations, chambers of commerce, and community ...

Planner

Wood Dale, IL ยท On-site

$75 - $113/hr

The Planner will assist with development applications, zoning and land use reviews, staff reports, planning studies, comprehensive planning initiatives, and economic development activities. The ...

Senior Program Manager

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$108 - $125/hr

... assist electric and gas utilities meet mandated energy savings goals. Our experience driven philosophy of energy efficiency as economic development helps families and businesses save energy and save ...

... economic development, and community investment programs. For over 50 years, AmeriNat has partnered ... responsibilities efficiently. * Assist with testing activities, procedure updates, process ...

... economic development, and community investment programs. For over 50 years, AmeriNat has partnered ... responsibilities efficiently. * Assist with testing activities, procedure updates, process ...

Showing results 21-40

Economic Development Assistant information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$9

$22

$33

How much do economic development assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for economic development assistant in Chicago, IL is $22.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.08 and $24.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an economic development assistant do?

An Economic Development Assistant supports economic development initiatives within a city, county, or organization. Their responsibilities often include conducting research, assisting with grant applications, preparing reports, coordinating meetings, and communicating with local businesses and stakeholders. They help implement programs that promote business growth, job creation, and community revitalization. This role is essential for supporting senior staff and ensuring that economic development projects run smoothly. Strong organizational, communication, and analytical skills are important for success in this position.

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

To thrive as an Economic Development Assistant, you need a background in economics, public administration, or related fields, along with strong research and data analysis skills. Familiarity with tools like Microsoft Office Suite, GIS software, and customer relationship management (CRM) systems is often required. Excellent communication, organization, and relationship-building abilities help you collaborate with stakeholders and manage multiple projects. These skills are essential for supporting economic growth initiatives and ensuring effective project execution within communities.

How does an economic development assistant typically collaborate with other departments or external partners?

Economic Development Assistants often work closely with various internal departments such as planning, zoning, and public relations, as well as external stakeholders like local businesses, community organizations, and government agencies. Their collaboration may involve gathering data, preparing reports, coordinating events, and supporting grant applications. Building strong communication and organizational skills is key, as the role frequently requires facilitating meetings and ensuring all parties are aligned on economic initiatives. This teamwork fosters a broad professional network and provides valuable insight into community development processes.

What is the difference between Economic Development Assistant vs Economic Development Coordinator?

AspectEconomic Development AssistantEconomic Development Coordinator
ResponsibilitiesSupports project research, data collection, and administrative tasks related to economic growth initiatives.Leads project planning, stakeholder engagement, and implementation of economic development strategies.
Required CredentialsAssociate's degree or relevant experience; some roles may prefer a bachelor's degree.Bachelor's degree in economics, public administration, or related field; experience preferred.
Work EnvironmentOffice setting, often part-time or entry-level roles within government or non-profit organizations.Office-based, with some fieldwork and community engagement activities.

The main difference between an Economic Development Assistant and an Economic Development Coordinator lies in their responsibilities and experience level. Assistants typically support research and administrative tasks, while Coordinators lead projects and stakeholder interactions. Both roles are vital in economic growth initiatives but differ in scope and leadership responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Economic Development jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Economic Development jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Economic Development Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Economic Development Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Economic Development Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Economic Development Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Economic Development Assistant jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Economic Development Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Economic Development Assistant job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,778 per year, or $22.5 per hour.

Development Internship-Fall/Winter 2026

Environmental Law & Policy Center

Chicago, IL โ€ข On-site

$16.20/hr

Other

This job post hasย expired 1 day ago.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

The Environmental Law & Policy Center (ELPC) is hiring a part-time development intern to work 15 hours per week. We are looking for an outgoing, organized, and enthusiastic student who is passionate about fundraising for work that protects the Midwest environment.
LOCATION: This internship is based at ELPC’s headquarters in Chicago, IL with an in-person requirement of at least 4 hours per week on either Tuesday or Wednesday. The remaining weekly work hours may be performed remotely.
DURATION: September - December 2026. Exact dates are flexible depending on applicant’s availability.
COMPENSATION: This is a paid internship with a rate of $17.05/hour. However, if a student chooses to avail of course credits for the internship, it will be unpaid.
About ELPC:
The Environmental Law & Policy Center is the Midwest’s leading environmental legal advocacy organization. We drive transformational policy changes with national impacts.
We show that environmental progress and economic development can be achieved together by putting sustainability principles into practice. We advance climate solutions effectively by accelerating clean renewable energy alternatives to conventional power plants and advancing clean transportation solutions. We protect the Great Lakes and defend the Midwest’s wild and natural places, and we fight for safe, clean water and healthy clean air for all. We combine effective public interest litigation with strategic policy advocacy, sound science, and economic analysis. ELPC produces strong results for the environment in the courtrooms, boardrooms, and legislative hearing rooms across the pivotal Midwest states and in Washington D.C.
Responsibilities:

  • Assist in preparing and conducting outreach for ELPC’s year-end giving campaigns.
  • Conduct prospect research to identify qualified funder prospects and prepare information to support initial outreach.
  • Assist with donor database entry and management, with special attention to details including correct spelling and accurate data.
  • Perform a variety of critical administrative tasks for a high-functioning development team.
  • Potential for other opportunities based on applicant’s interests and abilities.


Qualifications:
Must be currently enrolled in a course of study at a university or community college. The ideal candidate will be very organized, have excellent interpersonal and communication skills, and demonstrate a personal interest in environmental issues and nonprofit fundraising.
Special Requirements:
Occasional evening and weekend hours may be required during events.
Application Process:
Please be sure to include your resume and a cover letter addressed to Teagan Thune, Development Associate.
ELPC’s EEO Statement:
The Environmental Law & Policy Center is committed to diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace and provides consideration for an employment relationship without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender expression, gender identity, genetic predisposition, national origin, ethnicity, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law.
If you are interested in any of our open positions but are unable to apply online due to a disability, please email us at gcronin@elpc.org with a reference to the specific job(s) you are interested in, and we will be happy to assist you.
 

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