Economic Development Director Jobs in Chicago, IL

Be part of a team that values safety, inclusion, and excellence

We are one of the largest U.S. railroads transporting the nation's freight across 28 western states and 3 Canadian provinces. As a member of our team, you will play a role in supporting the movement of essential products and materials that help feed, clothe, supply, and power communities throughout America and the world.

We are committed to a culture where all employees are included, belong, and have equal opportunity to achieve their full potential.Come make a difference with us!

Learn more aboutBNSFandourBenefits

Job Location:Chicago
Other Potential Locations:Chicago, IL
Anticipated Start Date:10/01/2026
Number of Positions:1
Salary Range:$107,000-$135,000

Apply early as this job may be removed or filled prior to the closing date, which is approximately seven (7) days after the posting date.

This role leads strategic industrial development by identifying and coordinating profitable site locations and expansions in collaboration with BNSF Marketing, customers, developers, and government entities. It drives revenue growth through site qualification, infrastructure planning, and relationship-building with key stakeholders to deliver rail-based solutions aligned with company objectives. This position qualifies business opportunities and works closely with BNSF's Premier Transload network and grows our Certified Sites inventory to provide rail solutions and alternatives. Role is responsible for generating geographic strategic plans for enhancing the revenue base consistent with overall company and IP's plans and strategies.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Direct, plan, and implement the location and expansion of profitable industries through coordination with the BNSF Marketing groups, customers, developers, state, local officials, and with other BNSF departments.

Develop strategic plans for efficient and cost-effective utilization of BNSF and private assets that provide for the ongoing process of expanding BNSF's strategic network.

Coordinate all aspects of locations, including track construction, leaseand/or purchase, site identification, zoning, environmental impact, etc., to create quality growth.

Maintain an inventory of available sites; foster a broad network; and develop relationships with communities, industry/customer officials, federal, state,local government officials, economic development agencies, developers, real estate brokers, and site consultants.

Generate strategic plans for enhancing the revenue base consistent with overall Company and Business Unit plans and strategies.

Qualify business opportunities and work closely with BNSF Premier Transload network to provide rail solutions and alternatives.

Assist in development of cost/benefit (ROI) analysis and implement the results in the negotiation of industrial projects.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• Broad knowledge of railroad operations;general business issues;real estate matters; economics;and marketing policies, strategies, and practices.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to positively influence others to complete tasks and work as a team.
• Self-directed individual with track record of results.
• Strong analytical and computer skills.
• Ability to handle significant workload in an environment with rapidly changing priorities.

• Able to travel on business a minimum of 50% of time and be on call to meet the demands of the business.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Three years of Corporate Real Estate and/or Site Selection Consultant experience.
• Bachelor's Degree or higherin Business, Marketing, Engineering, Economics or Economic Development.
• MBA or Graduate degree.
• Three years of economic development, marketing, real estate, engineering, rail operations, planning and development, or industrial development experience.
• Proficient in SalesForce.

At BNSF, you will have access to a comprehensive and competitive benefits package including:

• An industry-leading 401(k) and renowned Railroad Retirement program.
• A range of robust health care options for you and your dependents (including domestic partners), including medical, dental, vision, telemedicine, mental health, cancer support, and high-quality care network options.
• Health care spending accounts (HSA) with employer contributions, as well as life and disability insurance, provided at no cost.
• Family benefits includingparental, pediatric and family building support, adoption and surrogacy reimbursement, and dependent care spending account (with employer match).
• Access to discounts on travel, gym memberships, counseling services and wellness support.
• Annual bonus (Incentive Compensation Program)
• Generous leave / time off policies.
• For more information, visitBenefits.

Please be aware of potential fraud that can occur when searching for new career opportunities. Please review ourFAQfor more information and awareness.

All positions require pre-employment background verification, medical review and pre-employment drug screen. You can find more information by reviewing theHiring Process. Federal authority requires BNSF employees, whose work requires unescorted access to secure areas of port facilities, to obtain a TWIC.More information is available athttps://www.tsa.gov/for-industry/twic

BNSF Railway is an Equal Opportunity Employer, all qualified applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.

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