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Economic Development Director Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

WellSky

Senior Medical Economics Analyst

Overland Park, KS · On-site

$90K - $115K/yr

Oversee the development of well documented reports, dashboards, spreadsheets, and presentations ... Direct experience managing value-based care payment reconciliation #LI-OF1 #LI-Onsite WellSky is ...

Lumen Technologies

KS · On-site

... development, and execution. * Define partner segmentation, success metrics, and growth priorities ... Deep understanding of indirect GTM, partner economics, MDF, SPIFFs/incentives, and PX best ...

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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 9, 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 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.

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 100% Full Time. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $110,530 per year, or $53.1 per hour.

Assistant Director, College Access

WSU Tech

Wichita, KS • On-site

$58K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

At WSU Tech, we're redefining higher education by creating life-changing opportunities for students and the communities we serve. We're looking for a passionate, relationship-driven leader to join our Student Services team as our Assistant Director, College Access.
Exceptional candidates may be considered for the Director title at hire.
In this role, you'll play a key part in driving enrollment growth, leading a high-performing recruitment team, and building meaningful partnerships that help students discover pathways to success.
Compensation: $58,926.40/yr
In this role, you will:
  • Develop and implement strategic recruitment plans to grow enrollment among first-time freshmen, transfer, dual credit, and adult learners.
  • Lead and supervise Career Pathway Advisors, providing coaching, training, and performance management.
  • Build strong partnerships with K-12 schools, community organizations, and college access programs.
  • Coordinate recruitment initiatives including college fairs, high school visits, community events, and campus outreach.
  • Collaborate with Marketing and campus partners to support enrollment goals.
  • Create innovative outreach strategies for first-generation students and their families.
  • Maintain expertise in admissions processes, financial aid, enrollment requirements, and student services.
  • Utilize Slate CRM to manage recruitment activities and maintain accurate student records.
  • Represent WSU Tech on committees and in the community.
  • Participate in professional development and support continuous improvement initiatives.

Requirements
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Communications, Education, Business, Student Affairs, or a related field.
  • Three (3) years of progressively responsible experience in higher education admissions, enrollment management, recruitment, student services, marketing, or a related sales or outreach environment.
  • Demonstrated success developing recruitment strategies and building community partnerships.
  • Strong leadership, communication, and relationship-building skills.
  • Commitment to serving diverse student populations and creating an inclusive environment.
  • Ability to travel throughout the service area and work occasional evenings and weekends.

Preferred Skills
  • Experience using Slate CRM (or the ability to quickly learn).
  • Knowledge of Banner is a plus.
  • Excellent organizational and project management skills.
  • Strong critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
  • Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.

Benefits
WSU Tech is committed to inclusive and equitable practices to create an environment and culture where students and employees thrive. We acknowledge that through valuing diverse identities, experiences, talents, and gifts, we excel by fulfilling our mission to create a talent pipeline, establish workforce equity, and improve economic prosperity for our community. WSU Tech is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
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About WSU Tech

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

201 - 500 Employees

Headquarters location

Wichita, KS, US

Year founded

1965

Social media

Twitter

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