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Economic Development Director Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Everpure

Director, GTM Economics & Science

Chicago, IL · On-site

$168K - $269K/yr

THE ROLE Everpure is seeking a Director, GTM Economics & Science to drive go-to-market (GTM ... You will lead the development of advanced statistical methodologies to measure the incrementality ...

Newlenox

Community Development Director

New Lenox, IL · On-site

$142 - $185/hr

Oversees economic development campaigns to promote current businesses and attract new businesses ... directed; serves as the Village's liaison in matters pertaining to the Community Development ...

New

Oak Park

Economic Vitality Administrator

Oak Park, IL · On-site

$17.75 - $24.50/hr

... direct, manage and oversee assigned operations of the Economic Vitality Office, including the administration of various economic development policies, programs, services, and initiatives. The ...

RWE AG

Utility Scale Development Director

Chicago, IL · On-site

$190 - $230/hr

Exempt The Development Director, Utility-Scale Development - Central Region at RWE Americas is a ... Bachelor's degree in engineering, business/economics, environmental science, planning, public ...

RWE

Utility Scale Development Director

Chicago, IL · On-site

Exempt The Development Director, Utility-Scale Development - Central Region at RWE Americas is a ... Bachelor's degree in engineering, business/economics, environmental science, planning, public ...

RWE Gruppe

Utility Scale Development Director

Chicago, IL · On-site

$190 - $230/hr

Exempt The Development Director, Utility-Scale Development - Central Region at RWE Americas is a ... Bachelor's degree in engineering, business/economics, environmental science, planning, public ...

RWE

Utility Scale Development Director

Chicago, IL · On-site

Exempt The Development Director, Utility-Scale Development - Central Region at RWE Americas is a ... Bachelor's degree in engineering, business/economics, environmental science, planning, public ...

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Economic Development Director information

See Illinois salary details

$47K

$120.1K

$195.7K

How much do economic development director jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development director in Illinois is $120,095.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,700.00 and $148,700.00 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.

More about Economic Development Director jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Economic Development jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Economic Development jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Economic Development Director jobs in Illinois?

For Economic Development Director jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Economic Development Director jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Economic Development Director jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Economic Development Director jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Economic Development Director job openings:

Economic Development Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Economic Development Director job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 65% Full Time, 32% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $120,095 per year, or $57.7 per hour.

Economic Development Coordinator

Exploreelginarea

Carol Stream, IL • On-site

$55 - $75/hr

Other

Posted yesterday

New

Job description

Elgin Development Group (EDG) A Division of the Elgin Area Chamber of Commerce Economic Development Coordinator

The Economic Development Coordinator supports the mission of the Elgin Development Group by assisting with business retention and expansion initiatives, economic development projects, research, marketing, events, and stakeholder engagement activities. This position provides administrative and project support to the Director of Economic Development while serving as an important point of contact for local businesses, community partners, and investors.

This is an excellent opportunity for an emerging professional interested in economic development, business development, community development, public administration, urban planning, or chamber of commerce leadership. The Coordinator will gain broad exposure to regional economic development initiatives and contribute directly to projects that strengthen the Elgin area economy.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities Supporting the Economic Development Director in the following areas:
  • Site selection and business recruitment support, including site visit coordination and property research.
  • Development project tracking and management.
  • Assistance with grants, incentive programs, and business resource identification.
  • Workforce development partnership support with employers, schools, and workforce agencies.
  • Small business and entrepreneurship support activities.
  • Data visualization, dashboards, and economic reporting for investors and stakeholders.
  • Expanded database/CRM management and economic development records maintenance.
  • Support on special projects and other duties and responsibilities as assigned from time to time.
Business Retention and Outreach
  • Assist in coordinating and scheduling business retention and expansion (BRE) visits.
  • Conduct follow-up communications with local employers and business stakeholders.
  • Maintain records of business contacts, visits, and project activity in CRM and reporting systems.
  • Help identify business needs and connect employers with appropriate resources and partners.
Economic Development Research
  • Research demographic, workforce, economic, and industry data.
  • Assist with preparation of community profiles, business recruitment materials, and responses to Requests for Information (RFIs).
  • Maintain inventories of available commercial and industrial sites and properties.
  • Compile data and performance metrics for reports, grant applications, and presentations.
Marketing and Communications
  • Assist with website updates, social media content, newsletters, and promotional materials.
  • Develop stories highlighting business successes, expansions, investments, and workforce initiatives.
  • Support preparation of presentations, investor reports, and marketing collateral.
Events and Stakeholder Engagement
  • Assist with planning and execution of economic development programs, committee events, workforce forums, and educational workshops.
  • Attend community meetings and networking events as a representative of EDG when appropriate.
  • Support investor and partner engagement activities.
Administrative Responsibilities
  • Maintain databases, prospect records, and economic development files.
  • Track key performance indicators and prepare monthly and quarterly reports.
  • Provide general administrative support to the Economic Development Director and EDG initiatives.
Qualifications Education
  • Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Economics, Public Administration, Urban Planning, Marketing, Communications, Political Science, Community Development, or a related field preferred.
  • Recent graduates are encouraged to apply.
Experience
  • One to three years of professional experience, internships, or significant project involvement in economic development, business, government, nonprofit organizations, chambers of commerce, community development, marketing, or related fields.
  • Experience with research, project coordination, customer service, or stakeholder engagement is preferred.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Excellent organizational and time-management abilities.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
  • Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
  • Ability to analyze and present data clearly.
  • Customer-service mindset and professional demeanor.
  • Ability to build positive relationships with business leaders, public officials, and community partners.
  • Willingness to learn economic development tools, practices, and strategies.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Familiarity with CRM systems, GIS mapping tools, or economic development databases.
  • Interest in pursuing a career in economic development, chamber leadership, community development, or public administration.

Related Links : https://www.elginchamber.com/

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