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Economic Development Associate Jobs in Washington, DC

Kharon

Business Development Intern

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$20/hr

... Development Associate to join us as we work to shape the way businesses perceive and navigate ... economics, or political science. As an intern at Kharon, you will not only get hands on experience ...

Grant Associates

Case Manager

Washington, DC · Hybrid

$24.04/hr

Grant Associates is a national workforce development company that is passionate about raising the economic security for the people, businesses, and communities we serve. Since opening our doors ...

GroundBreakers

Racial Equity Associate

Washington, DC · Remote

Economic Development; Conflict & Peacebuilding; Climate & Environment; Education; and Public Health. We are seeking dynamic Racial Equity Associates to join our Racial Equity team. Our Racial Equity ...

GroundBreakers

Racial Equity Associate

Washington, DC · On-site +1

Economic Development; Conflict & Peacebuilding; Climate & Environment; Education; and Public Health. We are seeking dynamic Racial Equity Associates to join our Racial Equity team. Our Racial Equity ...

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All JobsEconomic Development Associate JobsEconomic Development Associate Jobs in Washington, DC

Economic Development Associate information

See Washington, DC salary details

$32.8K

$60.5K

$91.7K

How much do economic development associate jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development associate in Washington, DC is $60,501.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,100.00 and $68,000.00 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 Washington, DC? The most popular types of Economic Development jobs in Washington, DC are:
Economic Development Associate jobs near you
Policy Research Associate

Policy Research Associate

SRI International

Arlington, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Overview
QED-C®, the Quantum Economic Development Consortium, seeks an intellectually sophisticated and analytically rigorous Policy Research Associate to develop and contribute to a portfolio of projects at the intersection of technology policy, scholarship, and practice. QED-C is an industry association with the mission to grow the quantum economy through community-building and collaboration. QED-C serves member organizations operating in more than 20 countries. CHECK OUT QED-C! The portfolio includes member-funded and externally funded research and policy initiatives. The Policy Research Associate will conduct research that informs policy, strategy, and decision-making on issues of interest to the quantum industry and will work a hybrid schedule from the SRI International office in Arlington, VA.
The Policy Research Associate, working closely with QED-C management and volunteer leadership in a dynamic research environment that values intellectual rigor, perspective on emerging challenges, and collaboration will apply sophisticated methodologies, including quantitative and qualitative techniques, to develop findings and recommendations and convey them in a variety of formats. Reports to the QED-C Deputy Director.
You will contribute to proposal efforts to promote the development and sustainability of QED-C's research portfolio.
Responsibilities
Success in this role requires intellectual versatility, methodological rigor, and the ability to translate complex findings into actionable insights for policymakers, sponsors, and other audiences.
  • Contribute substantively to the conception, development, and dissemination of research and policy analysis. Support a portfolio of projects by conducting rigorous inquiry, produce high-quality and persuasive written analyses, engage with stakeholders, and assist in the development and stewardship of externally funded research awards.
  • Lead the production of a wide range of research products, including policy briefs, technical reports, white papers, journal articles, presentations, sponsor deliverables, and executive-level briefing materials.
  • Undertakes original research on issues of strategic importance, including identifying and evaluating relevant sources, conducting literature reviews, collecting and analyzing data, monitoring developments in relevant policy and technology domains, and synthesizing findings and recommendations.
  • Exercise independent judgment in framing research questions, assessing evidence, and identifying implications for policy and practice.
  • Expected to produce near-final publication, presentation, and proposal drafts that require minimal rework.
  • Support interviews and convenings designed to advance research objectives and inform policy discussions, including preparing background materials, summarizing discussions, capturing key insights, and cultivating productive relationships with collaborators and sponsors.
  • Contribute to the development and sustainability of QED-C's research portfolio.
  • Assist with proposal development, conduct background research for funding opportunities, prepare supporting materials for sponsor engagement, and contribute to the articulation of future research directions. Will translate ambiguous needs into structured work plans, clear research questions, and appropriate methodologies. Will proactively communicate risks and recommend mitigations to QED-C management.
  • Will support the dissemination and public impact of the institution's work, including assisting with presentation, marketing, and outreach activities designed to extend the reach and influence of research findings. May represent the organization in professional settings.

Qualifications
  • Must submit a cover letter, and a list of publications that illustrate a history of relevant themes in academic, governmental, nonprofit, consulting, or industry settings. Can be submitted with the resume or as a separate attachment.
  • Master's degree in economics, science & technology studies, international relations, security studies, or related interdisciplinary fields bridging technology and policy.
  • Experience selecting and implementing quantitative and qualitative methods to answer policy questions.
  • Demonstrated written and verbal communication skills to inform and persuade diverse audiences, including executives.
  • Ability to travel occasionally to QED-C and closely related meetings.
  • Ability to work a hybrid work schedule from the SRI office in Arlington, VA

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Demonstrated interest in addressing real-world technology policy challenges and have familiarity with proposal development activities.
  • Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple concurrent workstreams.
  • Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a project-based research environment characterized by multiple stakeholders and evolving priorities shaping independent analysis.
  • Experience employing quantitative analytical tools and methods, including statistical analysis, econometrics, data visualization, or computational research techniques.
  • Experience mentoring junior staff and coordinating contributions across multidisciplinary teams
  • Familiarity with policy analysis frameworks and applied research methodologies.

- Writing samples will be requested during the interview process.
The salary range is: $63,873-$84,636. Salary ranges will vary and are based on several factors, including geographic location, market competitiveness and equity amongst internal employees in similar roles. Positions may also qualify for SRI's Pay for Outstanding Performance program or the annual Performance Based Compensation program. SRI also has a competitive benefits package, to view details please go to https://www.sri.com/resources/benefits/. SRI will accept applications until the position is filled.
SRI is an independent nonprofit research institute headquartered in Menlo Park, Calif., with a rich history of supporting government and industry. We create and deliver world-changing solutions for a safer, healthier, and more sustainable future. For more than 75 years, we have collaborated across technical and scientific disciplines to discover and develop groundbreaking products and technologies and bring innovations and ideas to the marketplace.

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