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Economic Development Director Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

Good Works Talent

Executive Director

Wichita, KS · On-site

$90K - $125K/yr

The Executive Director will be responsible for securing funding necessary to execute on the Create ... Strengthen relationships across the entrepreneurial and economic development ecosystem ...

WSU Tech

Receptionist

Wichita, KS · On-site

$15.85/hr

... economic development for a global economy. Our experienced faculty and staff are committed to ... Answering and directing phone calls to the appropriate personnel. * Managing appointment scheduling ...

WSU Tech

Receptionist

Wichita, KS · On-site

$15.85/hr

... economic development for a global economy. Our experienced faculty and staff are committed to ... Answering and directing phone calls to the appropriate personnel. * Managing appointment scheduling ...

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All JobsEconomic Development JobsEconomic Development Director JobsEconomic Development Director Jobs in Kansas

Economic Development Director information

See Kansas salary details

$43.3K

$110.5K

$180.2K

How much do economic development director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development director in Kansas is $110,530.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,800.00 and $136,900.00 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 Kansas?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Economic Development Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Economic Development Director job openings in Kansas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $110,530 per year, or $53.1 per hour.

Director of Market Development | Kansas

Beale Infrastructure

Kansas City, KS • On-site

$170K - $210K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Location: Kansas City, Kansas 

Reports to: SVP Policy & Public Affairs

Our Company: Beale Infrastructure develops digital infrastructure for the world's leading technology companies, partnering closely with customers, communities and utilities to enable innovative data center solutions with sustainable long-term impact.

The Role

The Director of Market Development will be responsible for developing and executing comprehensive engagement strategies for critical stakeholders to drive go-to-market strategy and positive public engagement for new data center projects. Enhance & protect Beale's license to operate in market and support seamless end to end delivery through grassroots and grasstops coalition building. Manage third party economic development incentive advisors to achieve client goals. This role requires a strategic thinker with a deep understanding of public policy, media relations, and community engagement within the technology and infrastructure sectors.

Responsibilities
  • Collaborate with Beale's development team to lay the groundwork for successful approval of data center sites and suitable conditions for data center operations over the long term.
  • Develop and implement strategic market development roadmaps plans to support business objectives and enhance project success.
  • Foster strong Beale-community relationships at both local and state levels
  • Develop strategic roadmaps and communications plans for projects
  • Maintain license to operate in region and across the portfolio through strategic advisory both internally and externally.
  • Support Public Relations and Communications teams on media relations, including proactive outreach, responding to inquiries, and developing press materials.
  • Cultivate and maintain relationships with government officials, industry associations, and community leaders.
  • Develop talking points and communications plans for Beale through public approvals including developing comprehensive presentations for local and state governments.
  • Prepare and deliver compelling presentations, speeches, and other communications to internal and external audiences.
  • Collaborate with internal teams (PR, Development, Policy) to ensure consistent messaging and alignment on key initiatives.
  • Identify and manage speaking opportunities and executive thought leadership platforms.
  • Develop and manage the community investments budget for their respective region.
Qualifications
  • 10+ years of experience in public affairs, corporate communications, government relations or economic development, with a significant portion in the technology, infrastructure, or real estate development sectors.
  • Demonstrated success in developing and executing strategic communications plans.
  • Knowledge of state and local economic development incentives and their applicability to data centers.
  • Deep understanding of public policy processes and regulatory environments impacting data centers.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to simplify complex technical information for diverse audiences.
  • Proven ability to build and maintain relationships with public and private sector stakeholders.
  • Experience in crisis communications and issues management.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience building and leading workforce development programs or other industry partnerships with public sector or NGO partners
  • Understanding of Hyperscale data center companies or digital infrastructure
  • Familiarity with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles in the context of infrastructure development
  • Experience managing external agencies and consultants

It is expected that the base annual salary range for this position will be $170,000 - $210,000. Pursuant to any applicable law or regulation, the anticipated salary range may include a performance-based discretionary annual bonus. Factors that may affect a candidate's starting pay within this range include geography, skills, experience and other qualifications for the role. This full-time position is eligible for generous benefits, including health, dental, and 401 (k). 

Beale Infrastructure Group is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, protected veteran status, and other statuses protected by law. 

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