ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Economic Development Director Jobs in Laredo, TX

Tamus

Director, Athletics

Laredo, TX

... development, innovation, and improvement ... Must possess sensitivity to students' academic, socio. economic, physical/learning disabilities.

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsEconomic Development JobsEconomic Development Director JobsEconomic Development Director Jobs in Laredo, TX

Economic Development Director information

See Laredo, TX salary details

$42.6K

$108.8K

$177.3K

How much do economic development director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development director in Laredo, TX is $108,789.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,600.00 and $134,700.00 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 are the most commonly searched types of Economic Development jobs in Laredo, TX?

The most popular types of Economic Development jobs in Laredo, TX are:

What job categories do people searching Economic Development Director jobs in Laredo, TX look for?

The top searched job categories for Economic Development Director jobs in Laredo, TX are:

What cities near Laredo, TX are hiring for Economic Development Director jobs?

Cities near Laredo, TX with the most Economic Development Director job openings:

Economic Development Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Economic Development Director job openings in Laredo, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,789 per year, or $52.3 per hour.

Economic Development Director, (A267510-4), 217, Administration

City of Laredo, TX

Laredo, TX • On-site

$123K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Salary: $123,156.80 - $160,118.40 Annually
Location : Laredo, TX
Job Type: Full-time
Job Number: A267510-4
Department: Economic Development (75)
Division: Administration
Opening Date: 07/01/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
Job Description
SALARY: Negotiable Depending on Qualifications
Under general administrative direction this position is responsible for planning, directing, managing, and overseeing the activities and operations of the Economic Development Department, including small business development, infill development, redevelopment, tax increment financing zones, economic development corporations, and industrial districts.
Essential Functions/ Job Competencies/ Physical Requirements
ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
The intent of this job description is to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities performed by employees in this job. Employees may be requested to perform job-related tasks other than those specifically presented in this description.
  • Oversees all operational activities of the Economic Development Department.
  • Formulates and administers the planning and grant writing activities for the City of Laredo. Research available grant sources and submits applications to all potential funding sources to include private foundations, local trusts, and to state and federal agencies.
  • Assures grant management in accordance with all federal, state, and local requirements including requirements stipulated by private foundations and/or trusts.
  • Directs the research, collection, and analysis of trade related data from production of reports and publications on economic status.
  • Supervises, plans, schedules, and assigns work to subordinates; instructs and trains in correct methods and procedures; reviews and evaluates employee's performance.
  • Develops and supervises the implementation of an annual operating and marketing plan, in order to promote Laredo as a destination to local, state, regional, national, and international audiences.
  • Directs the development and preparation of the annual departmental budget and monitors expenditures to ensure compliance with budget limitations.
  • Develops collateral materials including brochures, newsletters, promotional documents, advertisements, direct mail pieces and planner's guides to increase market shares for the Economic Development industry in Laredo.
  • Develops economic updates, reports, and publications.
  • Assists potential investors.
  • Directs the planning and coordination of promotional activities for the City of Laredo.
  • Promotes development operation in the City of Laredo and other foreign countries such as Mexico, China, and any other country interested in development and investing in our community.
  • Participates in international trade related conferences and trade shows for the purpose of attracting business and industry to our region.
  • Serves as the international trade liaison with foreign organizations.
  • Assists potential investors by organizing meeting agendas and providing regional economic and/or demographic data/maps.
  • Serves as conduit between private sectors and City Council for recommendation of economic policy.
  • Directs the development and maintenance of data on City of Laredo home page on the internet.
  • Represents City of Laredo in local and international forums by participating in meetings, conferences and/or trade shows.
  • Attends City Council meetings and takes necessary action regarding Council agenda items.
  • Works with an Advisory Committee made up of industry representatives that will make recommendations to the department and the City Council on policy changes needed to reflect the industry needs.
  • Briefs and advises City management, Mayor, and City Council regarding economic development and redevelopment projects, small business, tax increment financing zones, economic development corporations, and industrial districts in person and through written reports.
  • Participates in the development and administration of the budget for the tax increment zones, economic development corporations, and industrial districts.
  • Collaborates the City Manager, the Mayor, and city Council to define and articulate economic development visions, goals, strategies, and policies to formulate and implement strategic plans appropriate to the needs of the city and its citizens.
  • Educates economic development clients on City processes and helps facilitate the development process while working with City staff to balance the needs of economic development, permitting processes and City standards.
  • Develops and manages programs to assist new and expanding businesses in identifying resources and to provide financial incentive to encourage companies to locate in priority areas.
  • Develops and negotiates agreements between the City, private developers, and other governmental entities for economic development projects.
  • Will be required to drive a City vehicle for City business use.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

COMPETENCIES FOR SUCCESSFUL PERFORMANCE OF JOB DUTIES
Knowledge of:
  • Knowledge of public and business administration as it relates to functions, needs, policies, laws, ordinances, and regulations governing the City.
  • Knowledge of the methods and practices of assembling, analyzing, and presenting statistical data.
  • Knowledge of grant writing and application preparation.
Skills and Abilities:
  • Ability to have strong interpersonal skills and to work with and motivate all levels of employees, and to interact with the City of Laredo business community and the general public.
  • Ability to develop and maintain unified working relationships with local and Nuevo Laredo trade organizations.
  • Ability to maintain good planning and organizational skills.
  • Ability to maintain a valid Texas Driver License and a good driving record.
  • Ability to maintain harmonious and effective working relationships with other employees and respond to general public complaints.
  • Ability to effectively communicate both orally and in writing in the English language and orally in the Spanish language.
  • Ability to project a positive and professional image of the City of Laredo.
  • Ability to comply with all City of Laredo's policies and procedures.
  • Ability to maintain good health and physical condition sufficient to permit the full performance of the duties of the position.

WORK ENVIRONMENT/CONDITIONS AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Physical Effort Requirements
Position will have the following exposures
  • Office or similar indoor environment, relatively free from unpleasant environmental conditions or hazards.
  • Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally, a negligible amount of force frequently, and/or constantly having to lift, carry, push, pull, or otherwise move objects, including the human body. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time. Jobs are sedentary if walking and standing are required only occasionally, and all other sedentary criteria are met.

Work Environment Locations
Position will require the employee to work in the following types of work environments
Seldom
  • Confined space
  • Warehouse environment

Sometimes
  • Construction site

Frequently
  • Office or similar indoor environment
  • Outdoor environment
  • Street environment (near moving traffic)
  • Vehicles

Exposures
Position will require the employee to be exposed to the following environmental elements
Never
  • Communicable diseases
  • Moving mechanical parts
  • Fumes or airborne particles
  • Toxic or caustic chemicals or substances
  • Loud noises (85+ decibels such as heavy trucks, jack hammers, construction)

Seldom
  • Individuals with known violent backgrounds
  • Extreme cold (below 32 degrees)

Sometimes
  • Individuals who are hostile or irate

Frequently
  • Extreme heat (above 100 degrees)

Travel
Position will require the employee to travel
Sometimes:
  • Regional travel
  • National travel
  • International travel

Frequently
  • Local travel

Minimum Qualifications
Required Education and Experience:
  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited* college or university in Business Administration, Public Administration, Economics, Marketing, or related field. Master's degree is preferred.
  • At least seven (7) years of professional experience in economic development, trade development, international trade, technology-based economic development and entrepreneurship support, sustainability based economic development, or commercial or residential real estate development including five (5) years of supervising personnel.

*Council of Higher Education Accreditation (C.H.E.A.)
Valid Licenses and Certifications
Required Licenses or Certifications
  • Valid Texas Driver License. If applicant holds an out-of-state license, a State of Texas Driver License must be obtained within 6 months of employment.

As part of the minimum requirements for all positions with the City of Laredo, a thorough background check and certified school transcripts will be required from all applicants who are offered employment.
Effective February 24, 1997, all selected applicants are required to undergo a drug and alcohol test prior to employment.
Effective January 7, 2008, all persons in safety-sensitive functions/positions, as per City of Laredo Drug and Alcohol Policy definition, shall be subject to random drug and alcohol testing.
A person with a disability who needs a reasonable accommodation related to a selection process is requested to contact the Human Resources Department at (956) 791-7480 two days prior to the scheduled interview and/or test if applicable.
City of Laredo is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/Pro Disabled and Veteran Employer. We welcome differences in the form of gender, race, ethnicity, disability, geography, socioeconomic status, age, politics, religion, philosophy, sexual orientation, or gender identity. All applicants who share this goal are encouraged to apply. Must be able to function in a principle-based organization that has a culture built on character
The City of Laredo provides a benefit compensation package that includes the following for all Full-time regular employees:
  • 10 days of paid vacation per year
  • 6 1/2 days sick leave per year
  • Pension plan
  • 16 paid Holidays
  • Paid health*
  • Dental plan*
  • Life insurance*
*30 day waiting period
For a full description of our benefits, please visit our website at: under Employee Benefits
01
What is your highest level of education?
  • Some High School
  • High School Diploma or G.E.D.
  • 30 completed college hours from an accredited college or university
  • 60 completed college hours from an accredited college or university
  • Associate's Degree from an accredited college or university
  • Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university
  • Master's Degree from an accredited college or university
  • PhD from an accredited college or university
  • Juris Doctor from an accredited college or university
  • Other Post Graduate Degree from an accredited college or university
  • None of the above

02
Please provide your major/minor below:
03
Do you have at least seven (7) years of professional experience in economic development, trade development, international trade, technology-based economic development and entrepreneurship support, sustainability based economic development, or commercial or residential real estate development experience?
  • Yes
  • No

04
From the experience you provided on your application, list the name of the agencies you performed commercial or residential real estate development experience with:Note: Do not answer this question with "See Resume" or "See Application". Doing so will automatically disqualify your application from the process.
05
From the experience you provided on your application, list the name of the agencies you performed economic development experience with:Note: Do not answer this question with "See Resume" or "See Application". Doing so will automatically disqualify your application from the process.
06
From the experience you provided on your application, list the name of the agencies you performed international trade experience with:Note: Do not answer this question with "See Resume" or "See Application". Doing so will automatically disqualify your application from the process.
07
From the experience you provided on your application, list the name of the agencies you performed sustainability based economic development experience with:Note: Do not answer this question with "See Resume" or "See Application". Doing so will automatically disqualify your application from the process.
08
From the experience you provided on your application, list the name of the agencies you performed technology-based economic development and entrepreneurship support experience with:Note: Do not answer this question with "See Resume" or "See Application". Doing so will automatically disqualify your application from the process.
09
From the experience you provided on your application, list the name of the agencies you performed trade development experience with:Note: Do not answer this question with "See Resume" or "See Application". Doing so wi

Apply