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Economic Development Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Director of Economic Development

Medford, MA ยท On-site

$1.7K - $2.0K/wk

Director of Economic Development DEPARTMENT : Planning, Development, and Sustainability HOURS OF WORK : Full-time (35 hours/week) Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 8:30am - 4:30pm; Wednesday 8:30 am - 7:30 ...

Economic Development Specialist

Golden, CO ยท On-site

$62K - $75K/yr

Assists with direct business retention and attraction efforts, and coordinates with other City economic development, sustainability, public art, and healthy communities programs affecting the entire ...

Economic Development Manager

Modesto, CA ยท On-site

$134K - $171K/yr

Plan, organize, and direct Economic Development Division activities, including development finance, asset management, redevelopment, business retention and recruitment, business loans, work force ...

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Economic Development Director information

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$48.5K

$123.9K

$202K

How much do economic development director jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development director in the United States is $123,934.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $89,500.00 and $153,500.00 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 are hiring for Economic Development Director jobs? Cities with the most Economic Development Director job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Economic Development jobs? The most popular types of Economic Development jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Economic Development Director jobs? The top employers for Economic Development Director jobs are:
What states have the most Economic Development Director jobs? States with the most job openings for Economic Development Director jobs include:
Infographic showing various Economic Development Director job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 75% In-person, and 25% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $123,934 per year, or $59.6 per hour.
Director of Economic Development

Director of Economic Development

Reno-Sparks Indian Colony

Reno, NV โ€ข On-site

$135K - $164K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Join Reno-Sparks Indian Colony as the Director of Economic Development and embark on an exciting journey to enhance community prosperity in Reno, NV. This pivotal onsite role empowers you to drive innovative solutions that stimulate local economic growth while collaborating closely with diverse stakeholders. Experience the satisfaction of being a key problem solver, fostering integrity and safety in our community.
Your leadership will be vital in preserving traditional values while embracing modern strategies for sustainable development. Compensation for this full-time position ranges from $135,408 to $164,444.80, depending on your experience and qualifications. You will be offered great benefits such as Medical, Dental, Vision, 401(k), Life Insurance, and Paid Time Off. This is your chance to make a meaningful impact while working in a vibrant, purpose-driven environment.
Seize the opportunity to contribute to a legacy of positive change within the Reno-Sparks community.
A little about us
The Reno-Sparks Indian Colony (RSIC) is a federally recognized tribal government dedicated to the economic and social advancement of its people. Established in the early 1900s and formally recognized under the Indian Reorganization Act of 1934, the RSIC represents over 1,100 members of the Paiute, Shoshone, and Washoe Tribes-Three Tribes, One Nation. Our lands include the original 28-acre Colony in central west Reno and a 1,920-acre community in Hungry Valley, located 19 miles north of the Colony in the scenic Eagle Canyon region of Nevada. The RSIC is a vibrant and growing organization that honors traditional teachings and cultural heritage while embracing modern business practices and innovative governance. We employ over 300 individuals, including more than 150 tribal members, and are committed to fostering a professional work environment that encourages talent, motivation, and career development. As a government and as employees, we are united in our mission to serve the RSIC community with integrity, fiscal responsibility, and a shared commitment to health, prosperity, and cultural preservation. Our vision is to support a strong, healthy community where individuals and families thrive-spiritually, physically, and emotionally-building a foundation for lasting well-being and success.
What it's like to be a Director of Economic Development at Director of Economic Development
The Director of Economic Development at Reno-Sparks Indian Colony plays a vital role in shaping the economic landscape of the Colony under the direct supervision of the Tribal Chairman. This position is responsible for generating and administering a comprehensive Economic Development Strategy that aligns with the Tribal Council's approved goals and objectives. You will coordinate activities across various departments to ensure economic self-sufficiency while advancing comprehensive plans for development. Engaging with potential businesses and negotiating leases are essential duties, along with collaborating with developers and contractors to ensure adherence to tribal ordinances.
You will conduct reviews of business proposals, provide technical assistance to tribal departments, and assess land acquisition plans. Additionally, the role involves identifying grant opportunities and assisting with limited legal work related to economic initiatives. This multifaceted position is integral to driving the Colony's economic growth and sustainability, making it an exciting opportunity for a passionate leader.
Are you a good fit for this Director of Economic Development job?
To excel as the Director of Economic Development at Reno-Sparks Indian Colony, candidates must possess a robust set of skills and qualifications. A minimum of a Bachelor's Degree, with a preference for graduate studies in business development, law, economic development, or economics, is essential. Knowledge of economic development principles, particularly in a government context, is highly valuable.
The ability to navigate the complexities of conducting business within a Tribal setting is crucial, especially when presenting reports to Tribal Councils. Successful candidates will demonstrate strong project management skills, with the capability to oversee multiple initiatives simultaneously. Superior communication and presentation skills, both oral and written, are critical for engaging with stakeholders and crafting persuasive business proposals.
Familiarity with Nevada's commercial, tax, and corporate laws is required, alongside a working knowledge of diverse cultural settings. Additionally, candidates must be bondable, pass a security background check, and obtain a valid Nevada Driver's License. Indian preference will apply.
Knowledge and skills required for the position are:
  • Minimum of a bachelor's degree with graduate degree in area of business development law economic development or economics preferred.
  • Knowledge of economic development principles and practices preferably for a government entity.
  • Ability to conduct business within a Tribal setting including presentations of reports to Tribal Councils.
  • Proven ability to manage or operate multiple projects.
  • Excellent communication and presentation skills both orally and in writing.
  • Working knowledge of business proposals and business plans.
  • Working knowledge of Nevada commercial tax and corporate laws.
  • Must be able to work productively in a diverse cultural setting.
  • Must be bondable able to pass a security background check and complete a Conflict-of-Interest Declaration/Professional Ethics-Disclosure Requirements.
  • Capable of obtaining a valid Nevada Driver's License.
Get started with our team!
So, what do you think? If you can meet these requirements and perform this job as described above, we would be happy to have you as part of our team!
Please Note: Hiring preference is provided to qualified members of the Reno-Sparks Indian Colony followed by members of other federally recognized tribes. Reno-Sparks Indian Colony requires any designated candidate to complete a pre-employment criminal background check, drug screen, and confirmation of professional references.