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Economic Development Director Jobs in Gilbert, AZ

An Economic Development Project Manager plans, organizes, monitors, manages, and evaluates economic ... Responsibilities include coordinating, directing, and implementing programs and projects that ...

Development Coordinator

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$43K - $58K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... economic wellbeing, and power to people devastated by conflict and disaster. Founded in 1933 at the ... The Development Coordinator in Phoenix works closely with the Development Director in Arizona to ...

Development Coordinator

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$43K - $58K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... economic wellbeing, and power to people devastated by conflict and disaster. Founded in 1933 at the ... The Development Coordinator in Phoenix works closely with the Development Director in Arizona to ...

Director or VP, Land Development

Scottsdale, AZ · On-site

$175 - $215/hr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Director or Vice President, Land Development The Director or Vice President of Land Management is a ... economics. * Coordinate with acquisition, finance, operations, and executive leadership teams ...

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Showing results 1-20

Economic Development Director information

See Gilbert, AZ salary details

$48.4K

$123.6K

$201.4K

How much do economic development director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development director in Gilbert, AZ is $123,569.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $89,200.00 and $153,000.00 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.

What are popular job titles related to Economic Development Director jobs in Gilbert, AZ?

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

What cities near Gilbert, AZ are hiring for Economic Development Director jobs?

Cities near Gilbert, AZ with the most Economic Development Director job openings:

Infographic showing various Economic Development Director job openings in Gilbert, AZ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 2% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, 4% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $115,345 per year, or $55.5 per hour.

Economic Development Assistant Director

City of Chandler

Chandler, AZ • On-site

$138K - $200K/yr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


City Of Chandler (Arizona) rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

172nd of 845 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Job Announcement The City of Chandler Economic Development Division is currently seeking qualified individuals interested in joining our team as a Economic Development Assistant Director. The position is scheduled to work Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM. Current City of Chandler employees may only hold one position and are not eligible for additional part-time or secondary positions within the City of Chandler.

Why work for Chandler. Open and collaborative environment Up to 8 hours paid time off annually to volunteer in the community Dress code is business casual, with jeans on Fridays 3 medical plans to choose from along with dental and vision coverage Accrue 130 hours paid vacation in your first year, eligible for use immediately following accrual Accrue 96 hours paid sick leave in your first year, eligible for use immediately following accrual 12 paid holidays annually, plus Winter Break leave the end of 2026 Become part of the Arizona State Retirement System with a 100% city contribution match City contributions of 1% gross wages per pay period to deferred compensation Robust Employee Wellness program with $350 incentive Professional development opportunities Tuition reimbursement up to $5,250 annually Free Tumbleweed Recreation Center membership Flexible schedule/remote work options (when available) Who we are The City of Chandler Economic Development Division leads efforts to attract new companies, support existing businesses, and strengthen the local economy. The team provides site selection assistance, market data, and customized support to help businesses successfully locate and grow in Chandler.

They focus on targeted industries and workforce development to ensure companies have access to the talent and resources they need to thrive. The division also includes Visit Chandler, the City's tourism program, which promotes Chandler as a destination for visitors, meetings, and events-supporting local hotels, restaurants, and retail. Together, these efforts reinforce Chandler's reputation as a Community of Innovation with a strong business climate and high quality of life.

Who we are looking for Our new team member will have a passion for customer service, teamwork, and collaboration. We are seeking someone to serve as second in command of the Economic Development Division. Work involves supervising, managing and leading the activities and operations of the division including business attraction, business retention and expansion, entrepreneurship, small business assistance and personnel functions as well as goal setting alongside the Economic Development Director.

To view the complete job description, please click here. Minimum qualifications A Bachelor's Degree in Economic Development, Public or Business Administration, Real Estate Development or a related field; and 8 years of experience in economic development, including 4 years of supervisory experience; and A valid Driver's License with acceptable driving record; or Any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the knowledge and abilities necessary to perform the work. This is a regular full-time position, subject to a 6-month probationary period.

A register of qualified candidates will be active for 4 months should another position become available. The City of Chandler will conduct a driving record check as a condition of employment. An offer of employment is contingent upon acceptable results.

All applicants hired will be required to be fingerprinted with successful results as a condition of continued employment. Applicants for employment and volunteer opportunities should be aware of the City of Chandler's policies concerning the use of drugs and alcohol. These policies have not been altered by the passage of Proposition 207.

The use of recreational marijuana is a violation of the city's Drug Free Workplace Policy. Certain positions within the city are required to submit to a pre-employment drug test. A positive result for drugs tested under the policy, including recreational marijuana, may be grounds for withdrawal of an offer of employment or volunteer opportunity.

The examination process may vary if determined necessary. The City of Chandler is committed to Equal Opportunity and Reasonable Accommodation.


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