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Economic Development Director Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

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Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$86K/yr

The position partners with community, business, workforce, economic development, and policy leaders ... This position reports to the Director of Policy, Partnership and Outreach. This position may offer ...

Director, Medical Economics

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$178.85 - $234.74/hr

We' re hiring a Director, Medical Economics to join our Actuarial team. Oscar is the first health ... Playbook Development: Collaborate with central affordability and local market teams to develop ...

$112K - $129K/yr

... economic development; collects taxes and assessments that support State government operations ... FINANCIAL AFFAIRS ASSISTANT DIRECTOR **This position is primarily remote with some in-office ...

Showing results 41-60

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 Aug 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 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 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 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 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 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $115,492 per year, or $55.5 per hour.

Full-time

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Job description

Distinguishing Characteristics: 

Under minimal supervision and administrative direction the Deputy Chief Revenue Officer is responsible to plan, manage and coordinate various assigned affairs and operations of the Tucson Airport Authority (TAA) Business and Commercial Development Division in the areas of Property and Lease Management, Concessions and Ground Transportation at Tucson International Airport (TUS) and Ryan Airfield (RYN).  Will assist the Vice President/Chief Revenue Officer (VP/CRO) in areas related to regional economic development.  Leads and mentors staff to achieve high standards of performance.

Essential Functions:  

The following functions and all other functions not included in this job description are to be performed in the best interests and for the greater good of TAA.

  • Support and advocate for TAA’s Mission, Vision, Guiding Principles and act as a champion and role-model of TAA’s Cultural Fundamentals.
  • Develop and implement goals, objectives and plans to retain, grow and attract new businesses that produce a diversified revenue stream consistent with TAA’s Strategic Plan, on an ongoing basis. 
  • Develop and maintain a strong relationship with the Marketing and Strategic Communications Department to plan and develop strategies resulting in revenue growth for all operators.
  • Lead the Business and Commercial Development Division to execute the tasks of the Agreement Management Lifecycle Standard Operating Procedure (SOP).  Evaluate the performance of the team and refine the SOP as needed to ensure consistent delivery on agreement lifecycle requirements.
  • Develop and manage a financial business plan that provides operating budget capacity to cover all division functions. Create revenue forecasting models and performance dashboards to support executive decision-making. Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) related to revenue growth, tenant performance, lease compliance and commercial development.
  • Direct and oversee all activities associated with TAA’s business relationship with the terminal tenants, airlines, concession operators, parking lot operators, ground transportation providers, and both Tucson International Airport (TUS) and Ryan Field (RYN) commercial/industrial tenants. 
  • Provide reports and interpret the results of operations to all levels of management, including the formulation of policies, the preparation of operating data, the coordination of systems and procedures, and special reports as required.
  • Lead negotiations for airport requests for proposals or qualifications, concession agreements, leases, airline use agreements and parking lot management agreements in coordination with TAA attorneys and other appropriate staff.
  • Keep the VP/CRO informed of the department’s performance and assist in maintaining an effective collaborative relationship with all TAA divisions, the TAA Board and Members, community leaders, outside agencies, consultants, and others.
  • Develop and present reports/presentations to TAA leadership, industry peers or community groups on airport business and commercial development efforts, which effectively communicate, as appropriate, TAA’s strategic goals and objectives.
  • Compare performance with industry peers, TAA operating goals, objectives and plans to pursue revenue generating opportunities.
  • Ensure contracts and daily operations comply with all Federal, State and local laws, TAA rules, regulations, policies, procedures, and compliance standards.
  • Partner with other TAA divisions and key stakeholders to foster an environment for business alignment and tenant success.
  • Deepen knowledge of benchmark airport business practices and build effective business relationships in the aviation and commercial real estate industries by representing TAA in conferences, meetings, and other educational activities.
  • Direct, supervise and evaluate the performance of directly reporting employees with established, standardized criteria, performing or recommending training, coaching and mentoring required to keep staff at the highest level of skill necessary for meeting organization needs and objectives.
  • Be responsive to airport emergencies and situations that may involve loss of human life or property; support public safety and operational response to emergencies; utilize Incident Command System (ICS)/National Incident Management System (NIMS) protocols and procedures; coordinate and/or participate in after-action emergency de-briefing with appropriate departments and stakeholders.

The above listed functions are not necessarily all the essential functions.  Job duties and functions may be expanded or reduced by management based on future changing needs and job requirements.

Position Requirements:  

  • A Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, or closely related field.  
  • 8 years of experience in commercial real estate, land development, lease management, concessions management and/or ground transportation, preferably in an airport environment and a minimum of three years of supervisory experience.
  • TAA will consider any equivalent combination of experience and training that provides the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities sufficient to demonstrate aptitude for the position.
  • Strategic thinking, effective leadership skills and strong analytical abilities.
  • Experience at FAR Part 139, commercial service airport, is highly desired.
  • Executive level communication and influencing skills are a must, with the ability to communicate effectively with audiences at all levels of an organization. 

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

      Knowledge of:

  • The principles of business management and administration.
  • Leadership, coaching and mentoring principles. 
  • Practices and procedures, including Federal, State, and local laws and regulations governing the use of the TAA airports, and TAA airport geographical departments and land areas. 

Skill in:

  • Organization, oral and written communication, proofreading, and critical thinking.
  • Performing tasks with a high degree of accuracy, attention to detail, with mature judgment, to function in compelling, high stress, fast moving work surroundings, with deadlines and multiple projects; to initiate and organize responsibilities without observant supervision, and to take independent action related to work problems requiring immediate solutions. Must be able to remain focused in complex and stressful situations.
  • Delegating projects based on situations and capabilities of direct reports, while remaining informed and supportive of progress for delegated tasks.  This includes sometimes allowing people to make mistakes when trying something new, especially when they can learn from their mistakes.
  • Prioritizing and setting goals for departments using long-term, strategic and critical thinking methods, and knowledge of organization-wide mission and vision.

Ability to:

Environmental Requirements

  • Work primarily in a typical, temperature controlled administrative office setting in a semi-enclosed workspace. 
  • At times, work in a high-noise environment and extreme weather.
  • Be outdoors for periods of time year-round to visit tenants and various airport facilities.
  • Establish and maintain effective working relationships with TAA personnel, representatives of other agencies, the local business community and the public.

Mental Requirements

  • Plan and implement comprehensive research studies to interpret data and analyze results; recognize, define and solve complex problems; negotiate complex agreements or settlements; prepare clear, concise oral and written external and internal communications, reports and presentations.
  • Perform tasks with a high degree of accuracy, attention to detail, with mature judgment, in fast moving work surroundings, with deadlines and multiple projects.
  • Initiate and organize responsibilities without observant supervision and take independent action relative to work problems requiring immediate solutions.
  • Prepare and conduct effective presentations for TAA leadership and other departments and external parties.

Physical Requirements

  • Read, write, and speak the English language in an articulate, fluent manner.

General

  • Use office machines (i.e., fax, calculators, copy machines, mail machines, and other office machines). 
  • Establish and maintain effective professional working relationships with departmental personnel, other TAA personnel, and outside agencies.
  • Understand that dissemination of information outside of job requirements is based on “need-to-know”; maintain discreet and professional sense of confidentiality due to sensitive nature of job functions.
  • Be sensitive and aware of actions and reactions of employees, tenants, and outside agencies, the general public, and inform supervisor of appropriate concerns.
  • Engage in self-improvement activities, and training.
  • Perform cross training within work environment.
  • Continually learn and apply the latest up-to-date technical knowledge and skills in functional area of responsibility.  Strive to become an expert in field by taking initiative for on-the-job learning experiences, as well as seeking out formal education and coursework for continuous growth and development.
  • Understand own strengths and weaknesses, seek input from Vice President and peers about how to improve, and focus on continuous self-improvement activities.

Licenses; Certificates; Special Requirements:

  • A valid Arizona driver’s license and the ability to drive airport vehicles to obtain access to airport/landside/airside facilities, and the AOA movement areas.
  • Must obtain and maintain access to the Security Identification Display Area (SIDA).
  • Certified Member (CM) Accreditation from the American Association of Airport Executives, CCIM, CPM or similar professional designations are highly preferred.
  • Must successfully complete the National Incident Management System (NIMS) 100, 200, 700 and 800 requirements and certification within the first year. 
  • Will serve at the pleasure of the President/CEO and is not covered under the appeals process.
  • As an employee, you are deemed to be essential personnel as part of TAA’s emergency response, and must respond to airport incidents, as requested/required.