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Economic Development Director Jobs in Springfield, MA

City of Springfield

Project Manager

Springfield, MA · On-site

$65K - $85K/yr

This position will report to the Deputy Director of Economic Development. No direct supervision is exercised over staff. Essential Functions Plans projects and accomplishes goals within agreed upon ...

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Economic Development Director information

See Springfield, MA salary details

$47.2K

$120.6K

$196.6K

How much do economic development director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development director in Springfield, MA is $120,622.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $87,100.00 and $149,400.00 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.

More about Economic Development Director jobs
What job categories do people searching Economic Development Director jobs in Springfield, MA look for? The top searched job categories for Economic Development Director jobs in Springfield, MA are:
What cities near Springfield, MA are hiring for Economic Development Director jobs? Cities near Springfield, MA with the most Economic Development Director job openings:
Economic Development Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Economic Development Director job openings in Springfield, MA 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 $120,622 per year, or $58 per hour.

Project Manager

City of Springfield

Springfield, MA • On-site

$65K - $85K/yr

Other

Posted 17 days ago

City Of Springfield (Missouri) rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

542nd of 841 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Position Purpose/Summary Responsible for managing economic development and neighborhood revitalization projects for the City. Special projects, such as conference planning, small business assistance, and marketing initiatives for the City may be assigned. This position will report to the Deputy Director of Economic Development.

No direct supervision is exercised over staff. Essential Functions Plans projects and accomplishes goals within agreed upon time and budget Uses MS Office to schedule tasks, deadlines and milestones for all parties involved. Files required reports.

Manages problems as they arise and identifies project uncertainties and risks to the City. Manages and administers city redevelopment projects, including hiring and managing consultants. Manages neighborhood revitalization projects and community outreach.

Plans, executes and follows up with developers conferences and small business forums Assists businesses with information about city resources, tax incentives and credits, storefront grants, etc. Manages city portfolio of commercial properties, writes and administers Request For Proposals (RFP) documents to seek developers Manages pages of the Office of Planning and Economic Development website Conducts grant writing and administration for city projects as needed. Performs other tasks as required.

Occasional attendance of night meetings required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Ability to manage moderately complex tasks, timelines, and budgets. Basic knowledge of tax incentives and credits Proficient knowledge of MS Office products Demonstrated ability to express oneself clearly and concisely orally, in writing and via various methods of presentation. Demonstrated ability to positively interact with individuals at all levels of municipal government and a variety of professions.

Demonstrated ability to work independently. Knowledge of Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) preferred Knowledge of EPA Brownfields Program Education and Experience Bachelor's degree in economics, public administration, public policy, planning or related fields. Three years' experience managing economic development projects and related grant writing/administration.

Experience with community outreach and support.

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