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Economic Development Director Jobs in Massachusetts

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Economic Development Director information

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$53K

$135.4K

$220.6K

How much do economic development director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 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.

COMMUNITY AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR

Town of Bridgewater

Bridgewater, MA • On-site

$113K - $152K/yr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

NOTICE OF JOB POSTING

POSITION TITLE: COMMUNITY AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR

COMMUNITY AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

NON-UNION - GRADE 15

FULL-TIME (40 HOURS PER WEEK)

PAY RANGE: $113,713.72 TO $152,849.32 PER YEAR

POSITION OVERVIEW:

Under general administrative direction from the Town Manager, plans, directs, manages, and oversees the functions, programs, and operations of the Community and Economic Development/Planning Department including community and economic development, planning, zoning, and state and federal grants assistance.

The Community and Economic Development Director is responsible for the development, recommendation, and implementation of policies, programs, and procedures that accomplish the goals and objectives established by the Town Manager and Town Council to ensure the continued growth and economic health and vitality of the Town. Ensuring direct collaboration with residents and businesses in Town along with other Town departments.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Assumes full management responsibility for all department functions, programs and operations, including economic development, community relations and special events.
  • Manages the day-to-day operations of the department; initiates studies regarding zoning issues, development of ordinances, business regulations, review of permits, architectural designs, etc.
  • Plans, coordinates and directs the implementation of the Town Master Plan with elected and appointed officials.
  • Oversees land use planning policies and procedures, including the review of development projects.
  • Responsible for the oversight of various functions within the CED Department, which includes the Planning Board, Zoning Board of Appeals, Conservation Commission, and open space programs and policies.
  • Participates on a variety of boards, commissions, committees, and teams; reviews and prepares public presentations at Town Council and other public meetings; participates in Town Council directed projects/teams including Council Subcommittees, Economic Development, and projects of major importance to the Town.
  • Assists with applying for, obtaining and administering federal and state grants.
  • Performs related duties as assigned by the Town Manager.


QUALIFICIATIONS:

Necessary Knowledge and Skills:

  • Thorough knowledge of the principles and practices of local planning and development; planning, zoning, wetlands regulations, design and subdivision law, theory and applications; local government structure and operation, including budgetary procedures.
  • Considerable knowledge of modern principles and practices of municipal government.
  • Demonstrated skill in procuring and managing grants.
  • Skill in public relations; making presentations, writing reports and other communication practices.
  • Skill in general office management and practices, interpersonal communication, employee supervision, motivation, and the ability to direct the work of others.
  • Demonstrated proficiency in the use of computers and office software applications including spreadsheet applications.

Ability to:

  • Ability to oversee and manage the financial operations of the Community and Economic Development Department, including budgeting, accounting and financial reporting.
  • Ability to coordinate ongoing projects.
  • Ability to effectively manage the full life cycle of grants, from identification and application to administration, compliance and reporting.
  • Effective communication skills. Must be able to present financial information clearly to stakeholders, collaborate with team members, and provide financial guidance and recommendations.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

  • Graduation from college with a Bachelor's Degree in urban planning, public administration, economic development, public policy or closely related field and eight (8) years of experience performing above or related duties, to include three (3) years in progressively responsible experience planning, implementing and overseeing the economic development activities, or an equivalent combination of education and/or experience.
  • Master's degree is preferred. Knowledge of municipal development processes and experience interacting with local government entities and officials strongly preferred.
  • American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) certification or Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) is preferred.
  • Working knowledge of Geographic Information Systems (ARC/Info) is highly desirable.

Diversity & Inclusion is a key component of our success as an organization. The Town of Bridgewater is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages all qualified individuals-regardless of background, experience, or strengths-to apply.

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