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Economic Development Assistant Jobs in Portland, OR

Portlandcc

CASAS Proctor (Casual)

Portland, OR

$16.30 - $24.95/hr

... economic development of our community. Casual positions at Portland Community College have a ... We are currently looking for one proctor assistant at the Cascade campus, but prefer someone ...

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All JobsEconomic Development JobsEconomic Development Assistant JobsEconomic Development Assistant Jobs in Portland, OR

Economic Development Assistant information

See Portland, OR salary details

$9

$23

$34

How much do economic development assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for economic development assistant in Portland, OR is $23.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.61 and $25.48 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 Portland, OR?

The most popular types of Economic Development jobs in Portland, OR are:

What are popular job titles related to Economic Development Assistant jobs in Portland, OR?

For Economic Development Assistant jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Economic Development Assistant jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Economic Development Assistant jobs in Portland, OR are:

Economic Development Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Economic Development Assistant job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,157 per year, or $23.2 per hour.

Intern Opportunity (Cowlitz Tribal Members Only)

COWLITZ INDIAN TRIBE

Ridgefield, WA • Hybrid

$20 - $25/hr

Full-time, Part-time, Internship

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Intern Opportunity (Cowlitz Tribal Members Only) Cowlitz Economic Authority (CEA)

Location: Hybrid for Summer Internship

Type: Intern/Temporary Employee

Start Date: July 2026

Summary

This internship with the Cowlitz Economic Authority (CEA) offers a thoughtful introduction to the work that supports the Tribe’s economic growth and long-term wellbeing. Interns will gain practical experience by participating in real projects, learning alongside staff, and exploring how economic development strengthens opportunities for future generations. This role is designed to help you grow your skills, understand the importance of community-focused work, and contribute in meaningful ways to the Cowlitz people.


A typical day may include assisting with administrative or project tasks, attending team meetings, shadowing staff to learn about enterprise operations, conducting basic research and analysis, preparing documents, and engaging with community partners or internal teams. Days may vary depending on ongoing projects, allowing interns to experience different aspects of economic development and enterprise management.

Cowlitz Economic Authority Objectives
  • Generate revenue by reducing dependence on outside funding sources.
  • Ensure Tribal resources are used and developed responsibly while preserving them for future generations.
  • Promote diversification of the Tribe’s economic activities and identify profitable development opportunities.
  • Develop and manage economic opportunities and implement successful Tribal enterprises.
  • Maintain and operate Tribal enterprises such as Q’anápsu LLC and the Tobacco Outlet. This also includes exercising appropriate oversight of CTGA, which reports to our department and may be invited to participate in CTGA meetings.
  • Increase employment, training, and economic opportunities for Tribal members and member-owned businesses.
  • Develop a sense of entrepreneurship within the Tribe and its members.
Commitment Requirements
  • Full-Time: Minimum 6-week commitment, 40 hours per week
  • Part-Time: Minimum 10-week commitment, 24 hours per week
  • Interns must meet all onboarding requirements including a background check
  • Interns must sign an NDA to ensure that any confidential information accessed during the internship is protected.
Compensation
  • Full-Time: $20.00-25.00/hour plus housing stipend, for ungraduated candidates, will consider high rates for graduate school candidates enrolled in relevant programs.
  • Part-Time: $20.00-25.00/hour plus housing stipend, for ungraduated candidates, will consider high rates for graduate school candidates enrolled in relevant programs.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Assist with daily administrative and operational tasks across CEA businesses.
  • Support enterprise activities and project-based assignments.
  • Participate in job-shadowing and economic development activities.
  • Prepare documents, reports, research, and analysis related to CEA existing and prospective initiatives.
  • Attend meetings and contribute ideas supporting economic growth and enterprise operations.
  • Complete assigned tasks according to established timelines.
  • Engage professionally with staff, Tribal members, and community partners.
Qualifications
  • Must be a Cowlitz Tribal member (required).
  • Must be 18 years of age as of start date to apply.
  • Must be enrolled in an ungraduated or graduate degree program in a relevant field or with 2 years of relevant work experience.
  • Interest in economic development, general enterprise development and operations, and/or specific CEA businesses.
  • Ability to meet required full-time or part-time commitment.
  • Commitment to learn, take initiative, and follow instructions.
  • Dependable with a strong work ethic.
  • Committed to a collaborative team environment – we want to hear your ideas, questions and feedback.
Program Benefits
  • Hourly compensation ranging from $20.00-25.00.
  • Housing stipend for full-time interns.
  • Transportation stipend for part-time interns.
  • Mentorship and hands-on experience in Tribal economic development.
  • Exposure to enterprise management, planning, and operational strategy.
How to Apply
  • Completed application form.
  • Resume (if available).
  • Statement of interest including areas of interest.

Apply