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Economic Development Director Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Gfoat

Economic Development Director

Burkburnett, TX · On-site

$110 - $150/hr

Under the administrative direction of the City Manager and in accordance with the Burkburnett Development Corporation Bylaws, the Director of Economic Development plans, organizes, administers, and ...

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Gfoat

Director of Economic Development

Heath, TX · On-site

$110 - $170/hr

Summary The City of Heath, Texas, is seeking an experienced, strategic, and community-focused Director of Economic Development to work directly with the Heath Economic Development Corporation (HEDC ...

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Gfoat

Director of Economic Development

Conroe, TX · On-site

$116.88 - $142.85/hr

JOB SUMMARY The Director of Economic Development is responsible for ensuring the consistency and delivery of the CIDC message relative to development and implementation of the CIP Strategic Plan.

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City of Conroe

Director of Economic Development

Conroe, TX · On-site

$110.38 - $149.34/hr

JOB SUMMARY The Director of Economic Development is responsible for ensuring the consistency and delivery of the CIDC message relative to development and implementation of the CIP Strategic Plan.

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All JobsEconomic Development JobsEconomic Development Director JobsEconomic Development Director Jobs in Texas

Economic Development Director information

See Texas salary details

$45.2K

$115.5K

$188.2K

How much do economic development director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development director in Texas is $115,463.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,400.00 and $143,000.00 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 Texas? The most popular types of Economic Development jobs in Texas are:
What are popular job titles related to Economic Development Director jobs in Texas? For Economic Development Director jobs in Texas, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Economic Development Director jobs in Texas look for? The top searched job categories for Economic Development Director jobs in Texas are:
What cities in Texas are hiring for Economic Development Director jobs? Cities in Texas with the most Economic Development Director job openings:
Economic Development Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Economic Development Director job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% In-person, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $115,463 per year, or $55.5 per hour.

Economic Development Director

Burkburnett Development Corp

Burkburnett, TX • On-site

$80 - $120/hr

Other

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

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The Director serves as the City's primary professional responsible for promoting sustainable economic growth through business retention and expansion, commercial and industrial recruitment, downtown revitalization, corridor development, tourism initiatives, strategic partnerships, and administration of economic development incentive programs.

The Director serves as staff liaison to the Burkburnett Development Corporation Board of Directors and collaborates closely with City departments, elected officials, developers, regional partners, local businesses, and community organizations to implement the City's Strategic Plan and expand the City's tax base while enhancing quality of life.

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