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Economic Development Director Jobs in Massachusetts

Babson College

Director of Development

Babson Park, MA · Hybrid

$124K - $137K/yr

... great economic & social value. It's an exciting launch pad for anyone who wants to make a real ... OverviewThe Director, Development will serve as a key member of the Babson Development team ...

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All JobsEconomic Development JobsEconomic Development Director JobsEconomic Development Director Jobs in Massachusetts

Economic Development Director information

See Massachusetts salary details

$53K

$135.4K

$220.6K

How much do economic development director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development director in Massachusetts is $135,351.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,700.00 and $167,600.00 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 Massachusetts?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Economic Development Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Economic Development Director job openings in Massachusetts as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $135,351 per year, or $65.1 per hour.

Director of Economic Development at City of Medford Medford, MA

kozmetickesluzby.vecnakraska.sk - Jobboard

Medford, MA • On-site

$78.59 - $91.95/hr

Other

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Director of Economic Development

Position #J2025-0054 – City of Medford, Medford, MA. Posted 10/15/25. Department: Planning, Development, and Sustainability. Hours: Full‑time (35 hrs/week). Salary: Non‑union CAF 15 ($1,727.21‑$2,020.85/Week).

BASIC FUNCTION

The Director of Economic Development is responsible for developing, managing, and executing strategic initiatives that promote economic growth, recovery, and resilience within Medford’s business community. This role involves designing and supporting economic development programs, fostering partnerships, and leading efforts to attract and retain businesses. The Director also plays a key role in marketing Medford as a prime location for business investment, with the overarching goal of expanding the city’s tax base and creating sustainable employment opportunities for residents.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
  • Functions as an advisor to the Mayor, the Director of Planning, Development, and Sustainability (PDS), as well as other City officials on economic development policies and plans.
  • Engages with business owners and real estate developers to understand their needs, long‑term goals, and planned initiatives, identifying opportunities to align private sector interests with the City’s strategic priorities and vision.
  • Facilitates the pre‑development process for new commercial and residential projects; routinely meets with key stakeholders to support major economic activity and ensure City involvement adds value and direction to proposed developments.
  • Advocates for and implements policies and programs within municipal government to encourage long‑term economic growth in the City; manages business retention and expansion efforts in the City’s various commercial districts; creates and manages support initiatives for the City’s small businesses.
  • Maintains a detailed portfolio of economic activity in the City, including new business activity, development, and employment statistics.
  • Supports relevant City boards and committees tasked with licensing, evaluating the success of economic development initiatives, etc.
  • Acts as a representative of the City for economic development matters when interacting with state, regional, and local agencies or organizations.
  • Oversees any and all planning initiatives as they relate to economic development.
  • Applies for grants and manages earmarks in line with the goals of the department.
  • Functions as liaison to the Chamber of Commerce and other economic development organizations and community groups.
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCEMinimum
  • Bachelor’s degree in business, economics, urban planning, or related field with 3 years of related experience and 3 years of related experience in a supervisory capacity.
Beneficial
  • Master’s degree in planning, economic development, business, or related fields would be beneficial.
  • American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) or Certified Economic Developer (CED) credential.

The City of Medford is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/504 Employer Residents of the City of Medford, Women, People of Color, Veterans and Persons with Disabilities are encouraged to apply.

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