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Economic Development Director Jobs in Reed City, MI

Process Engineer

Cadillac, MI · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Leads the action plan of product/process development and validates the technical choices ... Reports to the Project Manager and his/her direct line manager. * Must apply all QSE² procedures ...

Economic Development Director information

See Reed City, MI salary details

$42.6K

$108.9K

$177.5K

How much do economic development director jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development director in Reed City, MI is $108,908.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,600.00 and $134,900.00 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 cities near Reed City, MI are hiring for Economic Development Director jobs? Cities near Reed City, MI with the most Economic Development Director job openings:
Infographic showing various Economic Development Director job openings in Reed City, MI as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,908 per year, or $52.4 per hour.
Preschool Classroom Aide

Other

Posted 6 days ago


Northeast Michigan Community Service Agency rating

5.2

Company rating: 5.2 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

About Us:
Northeast Michigan Community Service Agency, Inc. (NEMCSA) is a private, nonprofit Community Action Agency, whose Mission is to provide quality programs and services to strengthen and enhance the self-sufficiency of individuals, families and communities through the best use of human and financial resources, focusing on those who are experiencing an economic hardship.
What You'll Do:
The Early Childhood Aide position assists in the delivery of pre-school programs by communicating concerns to the supervising teacher and performing a variety of assigned duties. Based on the activities assigned, employees may work with children in the classroom, may prepare and serve food, may ride the bus assuring safety procedures are followed, and may be responsible for the general cleaning of classrooms and rest rooms.
Classroom Aide Specific Duties:
  • Assist teacher in implementing developmental experiences for children, including activities in language, intellectual, social-emotional and physical development; as well as skill development in health and safety;
  • Assist the teacher in managing the classroom to assure a safe, healthy and positive atmosphere for children;
  • Observe and identify needs of classroom children without constant direction and supervision;
  • Assist in toileting children and perform diapering procedures when necessary;
  • Perform necessary personal care procedures as directed and trained;
  • Assist in helping children in and out of vehicle restraint systems;
  • Physically interact with children outdoors and indoors to include floor-time in a safe and appropriate manner;
  • Complete and submit program paperwork accurately and promptly as assigned;
  • SUPERVISE CHILDREN AT ALL TIMES ensuring no child is left unattended.

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