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Economic Development Associate Jobs in Chicago, IL

Summary The Associate, Business Development plays a critical role in supporting inorganic growth ... Bachelor's Degree in Finance, Economics, Business Administration, Accounting, or a technical field;

Associate, Business Development

Chicago, IL · On-site

$96K - $145K/yr

Summary The Associate, Business Development plays a critical role in supporting inorganic growth ... Bachelor's Degree in Finance, Economics, Business Administration, Accounting, or a technical field;

OPERATIONS ASSOCIATE Intersect Illinois is the only statewide economic development organization focused on bringing new businesses, jobs, and investment to Illinois. Since 2016 Intersect has helped ...

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Economic Development Associate information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$29.9K

$55K

$83.4K

How much do economic development associate jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development associate in Chicago, IL is $55,028.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,800.00 and $61,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is economic development a good career?

Economic development is a viable career that involves planning and implementing strategies to improve local economies, often requiring skills in research, policy analysis, and stakeholder engagement. The role offers opportunities in government agencies, non-profits, and consulting firms, with a focus on community growth and job creation.

What career is Gen Z most interested in?

Gen Z shows strong interest in careers related to technology, social impact, and entrepreneurship, including roles in digital marketing, data analysis, and environmental sustainability. They often prioritize work that offers purpose, flexibility, and opportunities for innovation, and many pursue skills in digital tools and social media platforms.

What can I do with an associate's degree in economics?

An Economic Development Associate with an associate's degree in economics can work in roles such as research assistant, economic analyst, or community development coordinator. These positions often involve data analysis, report writing, and supporting economic growth initiatives, requiring skills in Excel, data interpretation, and understanding economic principles.

What does an Economic Development Associate do?

An Economic Development Associate supports efforts to improve the economic well-being and quality of life in communities by assisting with projects, research, and outreach related to business growth, job creation, and community development. They often work with public agencies, private organizations, and stakeholders to analyze economic trends, prepare reports, and implement programs that attract or retain businesses. Their responsibilities may also include grant writing, event planning, and helping manage communications with local businesses and government officials.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Economic Development Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Economic Development Associate, you need strong analytical abilities, knowledge of economic principles, and a relevant degree in economics, public administration, or a related field. Familiarity with data analysis tools, GIS software, and grant management systems is typically required. Excellent communication, relationship-building, and project management skills help you engage stakeholders and drive community initiatives. These competencies are crucial for successfully attracting investment, supporting local businesses, and fostering sustainable economic growth.

What jobs make $1,000,000 a year?

In the field of economic development, high-level executive roles such as Chief Economic Development Officer or CEO of large organizations can earn salaries exceeding $1 million annually, often including bonuses and stock options. These positions typically require extensive experience, advanced degrees, and strong leadership skills, and are usually found in large corporations, government agencies, or economic development firms.

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

AspectEconomic Development AssociateEconomic Development Coordinator
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in economics, urban planning, or related fieldBachelor's degree; some roles prefer experience in project management
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, non-profits, economic development firmsLocal government offices, economic development agencies
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly used in public sector economic initiativesOften used interchangeably with Associate, focusing on project coordination

Both roles typically require a bachelor's degree and involve working in government or non-profit sectors focused on economic growth. The main difference lies in scope: Associates often assist with research and outreach, while Coordinators may handle project management and implementation tasks. Understanding these distinctions can help job seekers target the right position based on their skills and career goals.

What are some common challenges Economic Development Associates face when working with local stakeholders?

Economic Development Associates often encounter challenges such as balancing diverse stakeholder interests, navigating complex regulatory environments, and communicating effectively with both public and private sector partners. Building consensus among local government officials, business leaders, and community members requires strong interpersonal and facilitation skills. Additionally, associates must stay adaptable to shifting economic conditions and policy changes while ensuring that projects align with both community needs and organizational goals.
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:

ASSOCIATE PROGRAM MANAGER (BUREAU OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT)

Cook County Offices

Chicago, IL • On-site

$77K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Cook County Offices
Under The President
Administrative Hearings
Auditor
Bureau of Administration
Bureau of Economic Development
Bureau of Finance
Bureau of Human Resources
Bureau of Technology
Facilities
Office of the President
Job Summary
Assist with basic, standard, and assigned aspects of economic, community, and housing programs from initiation through closeout. Ensure the projects are proceeding in accordance with the projected scope, budget, and schedule and is compliant with applicable requirements and regulations. Organize events, webinars, and meetings and assist with partner engagement and communications. Coordinate key stakeholder relationships and facilitate required reviews of program performance and financial metrics. Review expense documentation and assist with the monitoring and compliance requirements associated with the use of various funding sources. Escalate to others for complex situations, resolutions, and policies.
Minimum Qualifications
• Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor's Degree or higher is required or
• Possession of a High School Diploma or General Education Development (GED) Certificate is required and
• Four (4) years of project coordination, administration, or directly related experience is required or
• An equivalent combination of education and/or experience is required.
• Valid driver's license and proof of automobile insurance is required.
This position is considered a safety-sensitive position. Candidates who are selected to fill safety-sensitive positions must pass a required drug test as part of the pre-employment background check process.
https://www.cookcountyil.gov/sites/default/files/service/drug-and-alcohol-policy.pdf
Candidates who are contacted will be required to produce original required documents (e.g., current driver's license, diploma, school transcript, certifications, etc.) listed on the Notice of Job Opportunity within five (5) days of being extended an offer, in writing, by the Bureau Chief of BHR (or designee). Candidates will be notified of how to submit the required document.
*Degrees awarded outside of the United States with the exception of those awarded in one of the United States territories and Canada, must be credentialed by either the World Education Services (WES) or Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE).
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
  • Knowledge in project management concepts, including managing and monitoring project scope, schedule, and budget.
  • Skill in communicating effectively, both verbally and in writing, with tact and courtesy to staff, internal departments, and external agencies.
  • Ability to effectively manage multiple assignments and projects with overlapping deadlines and keep them on task and on schedule.
  • Ability to effectively coordinate and collaborate with key internal and external stakeholders and develop and maintain productive relationships with those key stakeholders.
  • Ability to organize routine activities and operations for a program, process, or service.
  • Ability to work collaboratively with team members as needed to support program initiatives.
  • Ability to interpret, develop, and implement standard plans and policies.
  • Ability to support in the assistance of achieving program goals.

Physical Requirements
Sedentary Work
Sedentary Work involves exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally or a negligible amount of force frequently to lift, carry, push, pull, or otherwise move objects. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time, but may involve walking or standing for brief periods of time.
VETERAN'S PREFERENCE
When applying for employment with Cook County Government, preference is given in the application process to honorably discharged Veterans who have served in the Armed Forces of the United States for more than 180 consecutive days, or during War Time. To take advantage of this preference a Veteran must:
  • MEET THE MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS FOR THE POSITION.
  • IDENTIFY THEMSELVES AS A VETERAN ON THEIR EMPLOYMENT APPLICATION BY ANSWERING YES TO THE QUESTION "Are you a military veteran?"
  • ATTACH A COPY OF THEIR DD 214, DD 215 or NGB 22 (NOTICE OF SEPARATION) AT TIME OF APPLICATION FILING. IF YOU HAVE MULTIPLE DD 214S, 215S, OR NGB 22S, PLEASE SUBMIT THE ONE WITH THE LATEST DATE. COAST GUARD MUST SUBMIT A CERTIFIED COPY OF THE MILITARY SEPARATION FROM EITHER THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (BEFORE 911) OR THE DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (AFTER 911).

The Cook County Department of Veterans Affairs can assist you with obtaining a certified DD214 and having it recorded for you at no charge. Please contact veterans.affairs@cookcountyil.gov
VETERAN MUST PROVIDE ORIGINAL APPLICABLE DISCHARGE PAPERS AT TIME OF INTERVIEW.
Group and Voluntary Benefits Offered :
• Medical, Dental, and Vision
• Basic Term Life Insurance
• Pension Plan
• Deferred Compensation Program
• Employee Assistance Program
• Paid Holidays, Vacation, and Sick Time
• Voluntary Benefits
• You May Qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF)
• For further information on our excellent benefits package, please click on the following link: http://www.cookcountyrisk.com/
• For eligible employees the County has a hybrid work environment which allows employees telecommuting and flexible scheduling options.
Salary Range: $77,218 -$85,241 /YEARLY
*This position requires successful completion of post-offer tests, which may include a background check, drug screen and medical examination.
Falsification of any information in the application process will result in disqualification, dismissal after hire, and/or placement on the County's Ineligible for Rehire List for a period of two (2) or five (5) years. For current County employees, such falsification may result in discipline, up to and including termination, and placement on the County's Ineligible for Rehire List for a period of two (2) or five (5) years. See Cook County Code of Ordinances, Article II, Sections 44-54 Unlawful Practices Relating to Employees and Employment - Penalty , 44-56 Political Discrimination ; Cook County Employment Plan, Section V.N. Pre-Interview License and Certification Verification ; Supplemental Policy No. 2014-2.13 Ineligible for Rehire List ; and Cook County Personnel Rules 3.3(b) (7) (d)
EEO Statement
Cook County Government is an Equal Employment Opportunity ("EEO") employer. Cook County prohibits illegal discrimination and harassment and affords equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to race, color, sex, age, religion, disability, national origin, ancestry, sexual orientation, marital status, parental status, source of income, housing status, military service or discharge status, gender identity, genetic information, or any other protected category established by law, statute or ordinance as further defined in Chapter 44. Human Resources, Article II. Personnel Polices, Section 44-53 of the Cook County Code of Ordinances and Chapter 42. Human Relations, Article II. Human Rights, Section 42-35 of the Cook County Code of Ordinances.
NOTE: As an internal candidate, should you be offered the position, salary allocations shall abide by the Cook County Personnel Rules.
*Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship.
Please contact BHR.WorkforceStrategy@cookcountyil.gov for inquiries about this position
Social Media Disclaimer
The County's hiring process is governed by the Cook County Employment Plan which prohibits employment actions from being influenced by any Political Reasons or Factors for Non-Exempt Positions. The advertisement of this position by any individual does not constitute an offer or promise of employment, promotion, or any other employment action and shall not influence the County's hiring decision. Cook County officials and employees who become aware of or receive a complaint that involves an allegation of Political Reasons or Factors being considered in the hiring process of Non-Exempt positions are obligated to refer the complaint to the Cook County - Office of the Inspector General. If the Cook County Inspector General sustains allegations of Political Reasons or Factors being considered, Cook County will disqualify the Applicant or Candidate from consideration for employment and disciplinary action will be imposed on any involved Cook County employees, if applicable.