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Economic Development Director Jobs in Springfield, IL

... direct reports. * Conduct regular performance discussions, career development planning, and ... Monitor regulatory, economic, and industry trends impacting the Building Technologies market.

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Economic Development Director information

See Springfield, IL salary details

$48.1K

$122.8K

$200.2K

How much do economic development director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development director in Springfield, IL is $122,832.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,700.00 and $152,100.00 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 the most commonly searched types of Economic Development jobs in Springfield, IL? The most popular types of Economic Development jobs in Springfield, IL are:
What job categories do people searching Economic Development Director jobs in Springfield, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Economic Development Director jobs in Springfield, IL are:
What cities near Springfield, IL are hiring for Economic Development Director jobs? Cities near Springfield, IL with the most Economic Development Director job openings:
Infographic showing various Economic Development Director job openings in Springfield, IL 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 $122,832 per year, or $59.1 per hour.

Enforcement Unit Supervisor

State of Illinois

Springfield, IL • On-site

$6.8K - $9.8K/mo

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 2 days ago

New


State Of Illinois rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 74 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 50 rated states


Job description

Job Requisition ID: 57092 
Opening Date:
08/04/2026
Closing Date:
08/18/2026
Agency:
Department of Natural Resources
Class Title: 
EXECUTIVE II - 13852 
Skill Option: 
None 
Bilingual Option: 
None
Salary:
Anticipated Starting Salary: $6,820 monthly; Full Range: $6,820 - $9,875 monthly
Job Type:
Salaried
Category: 
Full Time 
County:
Sangamon
Number of Vacancies:
1
Bargaining Unit Code: 
RC062 Technical Employees, AFSCME
Merit Comp Code:
N/A

This position is a union position; therefore, provisions of the relevant collective bargaining agreement/labor contract apply to the filling of this position.

All applicants who want to be considered for this position MUST apply electronically through the illinois.jobs2web.com website. State of Illinois employees should click the link near the top left to apply through the SuccessFactors employee career portal.

Applications submitted via email or any paper manner (mail, fax, hand delivery) will not be considered.

Please upload a copy of your official/unofficial transcripts for all degrees earned and a copy of any applicable professional licenses you possess to MY DOCUMENTS section of your application.

12-10-57092

 

 

Why Work for Illinois?

Working with the State of Illinois is a testament to the values of compassion, equity, and dedication that define our state. Whether you're helping to improve schools, protect our natural resources, or support families in need, you're part of something bigger-something that touches the lives of every person who calls Illinois home.

No matter what state career you're looking for, we offer jobs that fit your life and your schedule-flexible jobs that provide the gold standard of benefits. Our employees can take advantage of various avenues to advance their careers and realize their dreams. Our top-tier benefits and great retirement packages can help you build a rewarding career and lasting future with the State of Illinois.

Position Overview

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources is looking to hire an Executive 2 for The Office of Oil and Gas Resource Managment. This position will serve as a supervisor to plan, organize, direct, and evaluate the operations of the Enforcement Unit. The candidate will use their communication skills to communicate policies and interpretations, will use their writing skills to draft enforcement correspondence, and review pending legislation. We welcome interested applicants who would like to be part of this team to apply today. 

Essential Functions
  • Under general direction, plans, organizes, directs, and evaluates the operations of the Enforcement Unit
  • Serves as working supervisor
  • Communicates policy and provides interpretations to public officials, industry representatives and the general public on matters affecting Departmental enforcement
  • Drafts enforcement correspondence
  • Reviews pending legislation related to the Illinois Oil and Gas Act as well as the Federal Underground Injection Control Program Implements policy for enforcement issues
  • Performs other duites as required or reasonably within the scope of the duties enumerated above.
Specialized Skills
  • Of the 2 years of experience, requires a minimum of 1 year of experience interpreting and applying the Illinois Oil and Gas Act and associated Regulations and/or the Illinois Hydraulic Fracturing Regulatory Act and associated Regulations
  • Requires 1 year of experience in the manipulation of data withing a database including writing queries, generating ad hoc reports
Minimum Qualifications
  • Requires knowledge, skill and mental development equivalent to completion of four years of college, preferably with courses in business or public administration
  • Requires two years of progressively responsible administrative experience in a public or business organization
Preferred Qualifications
  • One (1) year of experience interpreting and applying the Illinois Oil and Gas Act and associated Regulations and/or the Illinois Hydraulic Fracturing Regulatory Act and associated Regulations
  • One (1) year of experience in the manipulation of data within a database including writing queries, generating ad hoc reports
  • One (1) year of experience in Microsoft Office Suites
  • One (1) year of experience of data entry into a database system, or digital file retention system
Employment Conditions
  • Requires completion of a background check and self-disclosure of criminal history
  • This position has been found to meet the requirements in section 4A-101 of the Illinois Governmental Ethics Act requiring the occupant/employee to file a Statement of Economic Interest. The Illinois Governmental Ethics Act (5ILCS 420/4A et seq.) requires certain state officials and employees file annual Statements of Economic Interest with the Office of the Secretary of State that will be made available for examination and copying by the public. All employees required to file a Statement of Economic Interest are also required to file the Supplemental Statement of Economic Interest with the Executive Ethics Commission. (See Executive Order 15-09) Fines and penalties apply to untimely filings.
  • Certain provisions of the revolving door restrictions contained in 5 ILCS 430/5-45 apply to this position. As a result, the employee should be aware that if offered non-State employment during state employment or within one year immediately after ending State employment, the employee shall, prior to accepting any such non-State employment offer, notify the Office of the Executive Inspector General for the Agencies of the Illinois Governor (OEIG) or may be subject to a fine.=

The conditions of employment listed here are incorporated and related to any of the job duties as listed in the job description

Agency and Division Statements

Agency Statement 
Charged with preserving, protecting and promoting Illinois' natural and cultural resources, Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) employees oversee water, wildlife, wetlands and oil wells, parks, historic sites - and everything in between. Employment opportunities vary greatly, often providing employees the chance to work indoors and out in a dynamic yet relaxed environment. Working for the State of Illinois, IDNR employees receive excellent benefits, including, vision health and dental insurance; a retirement plan and deferred compensation options; state holidays and other time off; as well as pre-tax benefit programs.

Office of Oil and Gas Resource Management

The Office of Oil and Gas Resource Management (OOGRM) is the regulatory authority in Illinois for permitting, drilling, operating, and plugging oil and gas production wells. The Office implements the Illinois Oil and Gas Act and enforces standards for the construction and operation of related production equipment and facilities.  In addition, the Office regulates the injection of fluids into underground injection wells, through the UIC Program, and cleans up abandoned well sites through the PRF and Landowner Grant Programs.

Work Hours: Monday - Friday 8:00am - 4:30pm w/ 1/2 lunch
Headquarter Location: IDNR Headquarters, 1 Natural Resources Wy, Springfield, Illinois, 62702
Work County: Sangamon
Agency Contact: Vicky Fowler
Email: vicky.fowler@illinois.gov
Phone #: 217-785-5387
Posting Group: Leadership & Management

This position [DOES] contain "Specialized Skills" (as that term is used in CBAs).

Statement of Economic Interest:

This position has been found to meet the requirements in section 4A-101 of the Illinois Governmental Ethics Act requiring the occupant/employee to file a Statement of Economic Interest. The Illinois Governmental Ethics Act (5ILCS 420/4A et seq.) requires certain state officials and employees file annual Statements of Economic Interest with the Office of the Secretary of State that will be made available for examination and copying by the public. All employees required to file a Statement of Economic Interest are also required to file the Supplemental Statement of Economic Interest with the Executive Ethics Commission. (See Executive Order 15-09) Fines and penalties apply to untimely filings.

Revolving Door:

Certain provisions of the revolving door restrictions contained in 5 ILCS 430/5-45 apply to this position. As a result, the employee should be aware that if offered non-State employment during state employment or within one year immediately after ending State employment, the employee shall, prior to accepting any such non-State employment offer, notify the Office of the Executive Inspector General for the Agencies of the Illinois Governor (OEIG) or may be subject to a fine.

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

Use the "Apply" button at the top right or bottom right of this posting to begin the application process.

If you are not already signed in, you will be prompted to do so. 

State employees should sign in to the career portal for State of Illinois employees - a link is available at the top left of the Illinois.jobs2web.com homepage in the blue ribbon. 

Non-State employees should log in on the using the "View Profile" link in the top right of the Illinois.jobs2web.com homepage in the blue ribbon.  If you have never before signed in, you will be prompted to create an account.

If you have questions about how to apply, please see the following resources:

State employees: Log in to the career portal for State employees and review the Internal Candidate Application Job Aid

Non-State employees: on Illinois.jobs2web.com - click "Application Procedures" in the footer of every page of the website.

The main form of communication will be through email. Please check your "junk mail", "spam", or "other" folder for communication(s) regarding any submitted application(s). You may receive emails from the following addresses:

  • donotreply@SIL-P1.ns2cloud.com
  • systems@SIL-P1.ns2cloud.com

What State Of Illinois employees say

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State of Illinois logo

About State of Illinois

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The State of Illinois is not a traditional company, but rather a governmental entity encompassing diverse agencies and departments that serve the constituents of Illinois. Based in Illinois, United States, this governmental body communicates with its citizens through the official website illinois.gov. The website is a one-stop resource for Illinois residents to access information about the state's services, including education, healthcare, transportation, and public safety, among others.

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Springfield, IL, US

Year founded

2009

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