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Economic Development Director Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

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Economic Development Director information

See Arizona salary details

$45.2K

$115.5K

$188.2K

How much do economic development director jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development director in Arizona is $115,492.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,400.00 and $143,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Economic Development Director vs Economic Development Specialist?

AspectEconomic Development DirectorEconomic Development Specialist
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Economics, Business, or Public Administration; experience in economic planningSimilar credentials, often with less managerial experience
Work EnvironmentLeadership role in government agencies or economic development organizationsSupport role, assisting with projects and research
Employer & IndustryMunicipalities, regional agencies, economic development firmsLocal government departments, economic development offices
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding leadership roles in economic developmentLearning about supporting roles in economic growth projects

The main difference between an Economic Development Director and an Economic Development Specialist lies in their level of responsibility and leadership. The Director oversees strategic planning and manages teams, while the Specialist focuses on supporting projects and research. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and work within government or economic organizations, but the Director holds a higher managerial position.

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

To thrive as an Economic Development Director, you need expertise in economic analysis, project management, and public policy, typically supported by a degree in economics, public administration, or a related field. Familiarity with economic modeling software, GIS tools, and grant management systems is often required, along with certifications such as Certified Economic Developer (CEcD). Strong leadership, strategic communication, and relationship-building abilities help foster collaboration among public, private, and community stakeholders. These skills are crucial for identifying growth opportunities, securing funding, and driving sustainable economic progress in a community or region.

What are the main challenges Economic Development Directors face when balancing community needs and business interests?

Economic Development Directors often need to align the interests of local businesses, government stakeholders, and community members, which can be challenging due to differing priorities. For example, attracting new businesses might conflict with preserving community character or addressing affordable housing. Success in this role frequently involves transparent communication, creative problem-solving, and building consensus through public engagement and strategic partnerships. Navigating these complexities requires adaptability and a strong understanding of both economic trends and local needs.

What does an Economic Development Director do?

An Economic Development Director is responsible for creating and implementing strategies to promote economic growth within a community or region. They work to attract new businesses, support existing ones, and encourage job creation by collaborating with local government officials, business leaders, and community organizations. Their duties often include managing economic incentive programs, overseeing redevelopment projects, and conducting market research to identify opportunities for development. Ultimately, their goal is to improve the local economy and enhance the quality of life for residents.

What Is an Economic Development Director?

An economic development director is a city government employee who helps spur the city economy. Your two biggest responsibilities are to persuade new businesses to move into your town and to encourage existing businesses to expand. You attend fundraising events for civic and business groups and interact with donors to make connections with potentially valuable economic partners. Your duties include developing strategic programs for economic and financial growth, analyzing market trends, writing city tax policy proposals, and advising the city manager and the city council.

What are the most commonly searched types of Economic Development jobs in Arizona? The most popular types of Economic Development jobs in Arizona are:
What are popular job titles related to Economic Development Director jobs in Arizona? For Economic Development Director jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Economic Development Director jobs in Arizona look for? The top searched job categories for Economic Development Director jobs in Arizona are:
What cities in Arizona are hiring for Economic Development Director jobs? Cities in Arizona with the most Economic Development Director job openings:
Infographic showing various Economic Development Director job openings in Arizona as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $115,492 per year, or $55.5 per hour.

Economic Development Director

Town of Gilbert, AZ

Gilbert, AZ โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Salary: Depends on Qualifications
Location : Economic Development 90 E. Civic Center Drive, Gilbert, AZ 85296, AZ
Job Type: Full Time
Job Number: ECDEVDIRECTOR
Department: ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Opening Date: 06/29/2026
Closing Date: 8/2/2026 11:59 PM Arizona
We Are Seeking
Team Gilbert is seeking an Economic Development Director to lead our Economic Development Department, which consists of 13 full-time positions budgeted for fiscal year 2027. This team expertly implements targeted strategies to foster economic prosperity across business development, redevelopment, and tourism services.
Gilbert has partnered with the Duffy Group for this recruitment. In order to apply for this position, please send a detailed resume and a cover letter to Nicole Gruenhaupt, Practice Leader at Duffy Group, at You may also contact Nicole via phone at 602-899-9294.
About You
Learn more about our ideal candidate, the position, and the Town of Gilbert by viewing our candidate brochure below, or clicking the following link:
Why Team Gilbert?
We Are Here to Help!
Gilbert is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. If any reasonable accommodation is needed while participating in the application and interviewing process, please contact our People Team (Human Resources) at 480-503-6823. Requests should be made as early as possible to allow time to arrange the accommodation.
Gilbert provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.
Gilbert offers a comprehensive benefits package for qualifying positions that includes medical and dental insurance, life insurance, disability, pension, tuition reimbursement, parental leave, babies at work, and more! to see a list of our benefit offerings at-a-glance, or visit our website to see our