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Economic Development Director Jobs in Crown Point, IN

Data Entry Intern/Volunteer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$15.50 - $20.50/hr

... an economic development strategy to lift women out of poverty and as a community development ... Research and Development Director Job Scope: The Aparecio Foundation is a growing organization with ...

Director, Renewable Development

Chicago, IL · On-site

$185K - $235K/yr

Position Overview As a Director, Renewable Development, you will lead the development of utility ... Supports economic modeling for all phases of projects * Oversees project design work with ...

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Economic Development Director information

See Crown Point, IN salary details

$46K

$117.6K

$191.7K

How much do economic development director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development director in Crown Point, IN is $117,593.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,900.00 and $145,600.00 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.

What job categories do people searching Economic Development Director jobs in Crown Point, IN look for?

The top searched job categories for Economic Development Director jobs in Crown Point, IN are:

What cities near Crown Point, IN are hiring for Economic Development Director jobs?

Cities near Crown Point, IN with the most Economic Development Director job openings:

Organizational Development Director Intern/Volunteer

Luxe Media, LLC

Chicago, IL

Internship

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

Company Description

The Aparecio Foundation is a nonprofit organization that was designed as an economic development strategy to lift women out of poverty and as a community development approach to build the leadership capacity of low-income women. The Aparecio Foundation provides academic support and scholarship programs for hihh-potential, low-income women in public high schools through an eight-year multiple-mentor program.

The culture of Aparecio Foundation is characterized by an informal and laid back environment, where employees work independently and in teams to develop and carry out effective organizational structure and work processes. Employees are driven through self-motivation and passion for the not-for-profit sector. Through the development of quality services to the enhancement of the organization's goals and objectives employees are able to use their strengths and skills the best ways they can! Therefore Aparecio Foundation employees are given freedom to be creative and energetic in performing their tasks and duties as professionals in their respective field of expertise.

Job Description

Managing and supervising the OD team; specifically OD Specialists.

Provide communication between OD Specialists and Executive Director.

Establish collaborative work environment.

Organize and lead the monthly departmental meetings to follow up on projects updates and set up future expectations.

Write a Weekly Newsletter in collaboration with all OD specialists and the co-director by delivering updated information on the projects' progress.

Build Organizational Structure

Initiate and ensure proper implementation of the Executive Coaching program.

Plan the long term visionary projects to ensure organizational effectiveness and successful work results.

Promote collaboration between the organization and other companies, such as Jobs for Youth and The Chicago School of Professional Psychology for recruitment of future interns.

Supervise and monitor outside consultant who works on special projects.

Develop a code of conduct, departmental policies, goals, objectives, and procedures that align with the organization's mission.

Determine staff requirements, interview, hire and work with new employees on specific projects.

Keep track of the weekly hours for consultants.

Attend professional meetings, training workshops, and read publications on the field to enhance professional competence.

Qualifications

Bachelors Degree. Masters preferred.

Have some work experience in HR, OD, I/O Psychology related field.

Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.