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Economic Development Director Jobs in High Point, NC

UNC Greensboro

SBTDC Business Counselor

Greensboro, NC · On-site

... economic development. Located within the Division of Research and Engagement, Innovate UNCG ... Working closely with the Director of Innovate UNCG, university faculty, students, regional partners ...

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Economic Development Director information

See High Point, NC salary details

$43.3K

$110.6K

$180.2K

How much do economic development director jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development director in High Point, NC is $110,572.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,800.00 and $137,000.00 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 job categories do people searching Economic Development Director jobs in High Point, NC look for?

The top searched job categories for Economic Development Director jobs in High Point, NC are:

What cities near High Point, NC are hiring for Economic Development Director jobs?

Cities near High Point, NC with the most Economic Development Director job openings:

Economic Development Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Economic Development Director job openings in High Point, NC as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $110,572 per year, or $53.2 per hour.

Community & Economic Development Director

Winston Salem, NC • On-site

Forsyth County (NC)
See more jobs at Forsyth County (NC)external

$98K - $113K/yr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

General Statement of Duties Opportunity to be responsible for the oversight of the County's economic development program, code enforcement activities, and all affordable housing programs in Forsyth County. Work involves extensive contact with the public, governmental officials, and other agencies. Independent judgment, initiative, tact, and courtesy are required.

Work is performed under general supervision and is evaluated for effectiveness in conferences and by review of reports. Minimum Education and Experience Graduation from a four-year college with a degree in planning, public administration, political science or related field and four years of increasingly responsible professional experience in public administration. Prefer experience with nonprofit or governmental housing programs or Community Development Block Grant programs.

Must have a valid N. C. driver's license.

A four-year degree outside of the relevant academic field plus additional years of relevant experience may also be considered. A higher education level may be considered as a substitution for all or part of the experience requirement. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Oversees the department's affordable housing efforts including home ownership, rehabilitation, and new construction activities.

Such activities include policy/guideline development, development of complex financing models, program implementation, budgeting, program evaluation, media relations, legislative liaison efforts and both customer and funders relationships. Oversees the preparation and execution of legal documents pertaining to easements, deeds of trusts, and promissory notes. Oversees the County's code enforcement program which requires residents to maintain their homes/properties in a condition that makes the housing premises safe, sanitary, and fit for human habitation.

Conducts administrative hearings and ruling on the actions to be taken by owners in making specified repairs to their property and the time frame in which the repairs must be completed. Prepares federal and state housing grant applications, and lobbies officials for grant approval and housing legislation. Oversees the County's economic development program.

Ensures incentive requests are in compliance with NC General Statutes, County economic development guidelines, and County policy and budgetary priorities. Works with Greater Winston-Salem Inc. to meet with businesses that are interested in locating in Forsyth County or expanding their current usiness that already has a presence in the County.

Serves as staff liaison with governmental officials, public and private housing agenciesbusinesses and the public in gathering and disseminating information. Monitors the work of staff through case reviews, progress reports, conferencse and informal discussions to ensure compliance with operational standards and established policies. Prepares documents and keeps financial records relating to audits and monitoring inspections.

Maintaining a specific license such as a driver's license in good standing, without a lapse or loss of a privilege to drive in compliance with North Carolina law, and in compliance with applicable DOT standards for commercial motor vehicle drivers if required to perform the duties assigned to the position. Performs financial reports and pro forums relating to the construction and rehabilitation of low and moderate income housing. Provides information to the Board of County Commissioners and the County Manager as requested.

Performs related work as needed.

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