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Economic Development Assistant Jobs in Portland, OR

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Economic Development Assistant information

See Portland, OR salary details

$9

$23

$34

How much do economic development assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 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.

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 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.

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 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 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, 16% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,157 per year, or $23.2 per hour.

Reg Mgr Economic Development (Territory WA, OR and ID)

BNSF Railway

Vancouver, WA • On-site

$107K - $135K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 7 days ago

BNSF Railway rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 151 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

202nd of 360 rated logistics

Job description

Be part of a team that values safety, inclusion, and excellence
We are one of the largest U.S. railroads transporting the nation's freight across 28 western states and 3 Canadian provinces. As a member of our team, you will play a role in supporting the movement of essential products and materials that help feed, clothe, supply, and power communities throughout America and the world.
We are committed to a culture where all employees are included, belong, and have equal opportunity to achieve their full potential. Come make a difference with us!
Learn more about BNSF and our Benefits
Job Location: Vancouver
Other Potential Locations: Seattle, WA; Vancouver, WA
Anticipated Start Date: 09/07/2026
Number of Positions: 1
Salary Range: $107,000-$135,000
Apply early as this job may be removed or filled prior to the closing date, which is approximately seven (7) days after the posting date.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Direct, plan, and implement the location and expansion of profitable industries through coordination with the BNSF Marketing groups, customers, developers, state, local officials, and with other BNSF departments.
Develop strategic plans for efficient and cost-effective utilization of BNSF and private assets that provide for the ongoing process of expanding BNSF's strategic network.
Coordinate all aspects of locations, including track construction, lease and/or purchase, site identification, zoning, environmental impact, etc., to create quality growth.
Maintain an inventory of available sites; foster a broad network; and develop relationships with communities, industry/customer officials, federal, state, local government officials, economic development agencies, developers, real estate brokers, and site consultants.
Generate strategic plans for enhancing the revenue base consistent with overall Company and Business Unit plans and strategies.
Qualify business opportunities and work closely with BNSF Premier Transload network to provide rail solutions and alternatives.
Assist in development of cost/benefit (ROI) analysis and implement the results in the negotiation of industrial projects.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Bachelor's degree required.
  • Broad knowledge of railroad operations; general business issues; real estate matters; economics; and marketing policies, strategies, and practices.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Demonstrated ability to positively influence others to complete tasks and work as a team.
  • Self-directed individual with track record of results.
  • Strong analytical and computer skills.
  • Ability to handle significant workload in an environment with rapidly changing priorities.
  • Able to travel on business a minimum of 50% of time and be on call to meet the demands of the business.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Three years of Corporate Real Estate and/or Site Selection Consultant experience.
  • Bachelor's Degree or higher in Business, Marketing, Engineering, Economics or Economic Development.
  • MBA or Graduate degree.
  • Three years of economic development, marketing, real estate, engineering, rail operations, planning and development, or industrial development experience.
  • Proficient in SalesForce.

At BNSF, you will have access to a comprehensive and competitive benefits package including:
  • An industry-leading 401(k) and renowned Railroad Retirement program.
  • A range of robust health care options for you and your dependents (including domestic partners), including medical, dental, vision, telemedicine, mental health, cancer support, and high-quality care network options.
  • Health care spending accounts (HSA) with employer contributions, as well as life and disability insurance, provided at no cost.
  • Family benefits including parental, pediatric and family building support, adoption and surrogacy reimbursement, and dependent care spending account (with employer match).
  • Access to discounts on travel, gym memberships, counseling services and wellness support.
  • Annual bonus (Incentive Compensation Program)
  • Generous leave / time off policies.
  • For more information, visit Benefits.

Please be aware of potential fraud that can occur when searching for new career opportunities. Please review our FAQ for more information and awareness.
All positions require pre-employment background verification, medical review and pre-employment drug screen. You can find more information by reviewing the Hiring Process. Federal authority requires BNSF employees, whose work requires unescorted access to secure areas of port facilities, to obtain a TWIC. More information is available at https://www.tsa.gov/for-industry/twic
BNSF Railway is an Equal Opportunity Employer, all qualified applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.
SF: Internal Posting Only; MO | ((mfield5)) | Marketing | Vancouver, WA | 98682

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