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Economic Development Consulting Jobs in Utah (NOW HIRING)

Redevelopment Agency Director

Vineyard, UT · On-site

$176.33 - $238.32/hr

... owners, consultants, and contractors. * Conduct redevelopment feasibility studies, including ... Eight (8) years of progressively responsible experience in redevelopment, economic development ...

Coordinate with USU Extension, agricultural organizations, economic development partners, local ... consulting, small business ownership, agricultural business support, or a closely related field.

Coordinate with USU Extension, agricultural organizations, economic development partners, local ... consulting, small business ownership, agricultural business support, or a closely related field.

Airport Principal Engineer

Ogden, UT · On-site

$90K - $130K/yr

Community and Economic Development Division: Airport Pay Grade: GRADE 170: $90,010.70 - $130,515.52 ... for consultant-led design and contractorperformed construction. • Develop and manage project ...

FT - Principal Engineer

Ogden, UT · On-site

$43.27 - $62.74/hr

Community and Economic Development Division: Airport/(Engineer) Pay: GRADE 170; $90,010.70 - $130 ... Serve as the City's project manager or owner's representative for consultant-led design and ...

FT - Principal Engineer

Ogden, UT · On-site

$90 - $131/hr

Community and Economic Development Division: Airport/(Engineer) Pay: GRADE 170; $90,010.70 - $130 ... Serve as the City's project manager or owner's representative for consultant-led design and ...

FT - Principal Engineer

Ogden, UT · On-site

$43.27 - $62.74/hr

Community and Economic Development Division: Airport/(Engineer) Pay: GRADE 170; $90,010.70 - $130 ... Serve as the City's project manager or owner's representative for consultant-led design and ...

Wendover Airport Director

UT · On-site

$115K - $136K/yr

... economic development, and public service. Primary Responsibility Provides exceptional customer ... Coordinates engineering consultants, contractors, regulatory agencies, and County departments to ...

... economic development, and public service. Primary Responsibility Provides exceptional customer ... Coordinates engineering consultants, contractors, regulatory agencies, and County departments to ...

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Showing results 1-20

Economic Development Consulting information

See Utah salary details

$28.2K

$93.8K

$141.1K

How much do economic development consulting jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development consulting in Utah is $93,787.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,200.00 and $113,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is economic development consulting?

Economic development consulting is a professional service that helps governments, organizations, and communities create strategies to promote economic growth, job creation, and investment. Consultants in this field analyze local economies, identify strengths and challenges, and recommend actionable plans for improvement. Their work can involve everything from market research and feasibility studies to policy development and project management. By leveraging their expertise, economic development consultants help clients attract businesses, foster innovation, and improve overall economic well-being.

How do economic development consultants typically collaborate with local government and community stakeholders during projects?

Economic development consultants frequently work in partnership with local government officials, business leaders, and community organizations to design and implement strategies that stimulate economic growth. This involves conducting stakeholder meetings, gathering input to assess community needs, and facilitating consensus-building among diverse groups. Consultants must balance various interests, communicate complex data in accessible ways, and ensure that project recommendations are both feasible and aligned with local goals. Effective collaboration is key to building trust and achieving sustainable outcomes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an economic development consultant, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Economic Development Consultant, you need a strong background in economics, urban planning, data analysis, and often a relevant degree such as in economics, public administration, or business. Familiarity with GIS software, economic modeling tools, and certifications like CEcD (Certified Economic Developer) are highly valued. Exceptional communication, stakeholder engagement, and project management skills help consultants build consensus and drive initiatives forward. These skills and qualities are essential for designing effective strategies, securing funding, and fostering sustainable growth in communities.

What is the difference between Economic Development Consulting vs Urban Planning?

AspectEconomic Development ConsultingUrban Planning
Required CredentialsTypically degrees in economics, public policy, or related fields; certifications like CEcD are commonDegrees in urban planning, architecture, or civil engineering; certifications like AICP are common
Work EnvironmentConsulting firms, government agencies, non-profits; project-based workMunicipalities, government agencies, private firms; focus on land use and infrastructure
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by economic development agencies, consulting firms, and government bodiesUsed by city governments, urban planning departments, and private planning firms

While both roles aim to improve community growth, Economic Development Consulting focuses on strategies to attract investment and create jobs, whereas Urban Planning emphasizes land use, zoning, and infrastructure development. They often collaborate but serve different primary objectives within community development.

Is economic development consulting a good career path?

Economic development consulting is a viable career that involves advising governments and organizations on strategies to promote economic growth and job creation. It requires strong analytical skills, knowledge of economic policies, and often a background in economics or public policy. The field offers opportunities for impact, professional growth, and typically involves project-based work with varying schedules.

What do economic development consultants do?

Economic development consultants analyze local economies to identify growth opportunities and develop strategies to attract businesses and investments. They often conduct research, prepare reports, and collaborate with government agencies and stakeholders to implement economic policies and projects. Strong analytical skills and knowledge of economic tools are essential for this role.

What does an economic development consulting do?

An economic development consultant analyzes local economies to identify growth opportunities, develop strategies to attract businesses, and improve community prosperity. They often use data analysis, policy recommendations, and stakeholder engagement to support economic initiatives and sustainable development.

What are popular job titles related to Economic Development Consulting jobs in Utah?

For Economic Development Consulting jobs in Utah, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Economic Development Consulting job openings in Utah as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,787 per year, or $45.1 per hour.

Deputy Commissioner & Chief Operating Officer (COO)

Salt Lake City, UT • On-site

$76.92 - $96.15/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

DEPUTY COMMISSIONER & CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER (COO)
The Deputy Commissioner & Chief Operating Officer (COO) serves as a senior operating leader for GOED, responsible for translating the Commissioner's priorities into measurable results and ensuring the agency operates effectively.
Reporting directly to the Commissioner, the COO drives internal execution, budget and resource management, operational performance, and accountability. The role also supports the Commissioner in leading the agency and helps provide leadership continuity when needed.
POSITION DETAILS & COMMITMENT
  • Full/Part Time - Full Time with Benefits
  • Salary - $76.92 - $96.15/hr
  • Work Location - 60 E South Temple, Suite 300, Salt Lake City, UT
  • Schedule Code - AC - Employees in Offices of Elected Officials
  • Background Check Required - You must successfully pass a criminal history check.
  • Application Deadline - 11:59 PM (MDT) on September 8, 2026 (may remain open until filled)

*This job posting may close at any time after the minimum advertising period of three (3) business days has passed, should a sufficient applicant pool be received. Applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Translate strategic priorities into clear plans, owners, budgets, milestones, and measurable outcomes.
  • Lead agency-wide operating and performance reviews and track progress against key priorities.
  • Provide executive oversight of GOED's budget, financial planning, operations, and resource allocation.
  • Be directly responsible for the integrity, administration, and oversight of GOED's grant and compliance programs and contract management.
  • Align spending, staffing, and resources with agency priorities and performance.
  • Establish clear internal accountability and ensure teams deliver against commitments.
  • Identify operational barriers, resolve issues, and keep priorities moving.
  • Improve internal processes, coordination, systems, and organizational effectiveness.
  • Use data, KPIs, and performance measures to inform decisions and drive results.
  • Support the Commissioner in leading and managing the agency, including providing leadership continuity when the Commissioner is traveling or unavailable.
  • Help build a culture of accountability, collaboration, fiscal discipline, and results.

REQUIRED CANDIDATE QUALIFICATIONS
  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and professional experience.
  • 8+ years of progressively responsible leadership experience in operations, management, finance, business, government, economic development, consulting, or a related field.
  • Demonstrated experience managing budgets, teams, operations, and complex organizational priorities.
  • Proven ability to translate strategy into execution and deliver measurable results.
  • Strong financial, analytical, organizational, and communication skills.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • 10+ years of professional experience with significant senior leadership responsibility.
  • Graduate degree in business, public administration, finance, economics, law, or a related field.
  • Experience overseeing significant budgets, operations, grants, compliance, contracts, or organizational performance.
  • Experience improving organizational systems, processes, and accountability.
  • Familiarity with public-sector budgeting, procurement, contracting, grants, compliance, or state government operations.

IDEAL CANDIDATE
GOED is looking for an exceptional operator and executor who combines strong judgment with a bias toward action. The ideal candidate brings structure to complexity, aligns people and resources around priorities, maintains strong financial and operational discipline, holds teams accountable, solves problems quickly, and consistently moves the organization from priorities to results.
WHY YOU SHOULD JOIN OUR TEAM
GOED is a fast-paced, dynamic office staffed with a hard-working, passionate team with diverse experiences and expertise. We strive to match your interests and strengths with our office needs. Working in this office will give you direct, hands-on experience. This job will grow your professional skills and capabilities. The State of Utah offers a highly competitive benefits package. Click HERE to review.
WHO WE ARE
The Governor's Office of Economic Development (GOED) champions Gov. Cox's commitment to providing economic opportunity for all Utahns. The office supports Utah entrepreneurs and businesses. We work to retain and recruit companies and bring more high-paying jobs to Utah. In addition, we work with industries, Utah regions, communities, and nonprofits to implement strategic economic development plans and reinforce Utah's already diverse, prosperous economy. We utilize federal and state resources and private sector contracts to cultivate economic prosperity for all Utahns.
EEO STATEMENTThe State of Utah is committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity, or Veteran status. We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements. For accommodations, please contact (801) 957-9390.
Recruiter - Sarah Humphries; shumphries@utah.gov