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Economic Development Manager Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

... Business Development * You will target customers within chemicals & refining, energy & bio ... Furthermore, analyze market trends, regional economic activity, competition, and evolving industry ...

... Business Development * You will target customers within chemicals & refining, energy & bio ... Furthermore, analyze market trends, regional economic activity, competition, and evolving industry ...

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Economic Development Manager information

See Alabama salary details

$28.1K

$93.4K

$140.5K

How much do economic development manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development manager in Alabama is $93,376.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,900.00 and $112,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Economic Development Managers?

Economic Development Managers are professionals responsible for planning and implementing strategies to boost economic growth within a community, city, or region. They work with government agencies, businesses, and other stakeholders to attract new investments, support local businesses, and create jobs. Their role often involves analyzing economic data, coordinating development projects, and promoting the area to potential investors. By fostering a healthy business environment, they help improve the overall quality of life for residents.

What are some common challenges Economic Development Managers face when balancing community needs with business interests?

Economic Development Managers often navigate the complex task of balancing the goals of attracting new businesses and investments with the needs and concerns of the local community. Challenges can include addressing potential impacts on housing, infrastructure, and the environment while ensuring job creation and economic growth. Success in this role relies on strong stakeholder engagement, transparent communication, and creative problem-solving to find solutions that benefit both the community and business partners. Collaboration with local government, business leaders, and residents is essential for developing sustainable, mutually beneficial strategies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Economic Development Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Economic Development Manager, you need expertise in economic analysis, project management, and community engagement, typically supported by a degree in economics, urban planning, or public administration. Familiarity with GIS tools, economic modeling software, and grant management systems is often required, along with certifications like CEcD (Certified Economic Developer). Strong networking, negotiation, and communication skills help build effective partnerships and foster stakeholder collaboration. These competencies enable Economic Development Managers to drive sustainable growth, attract investment, and successfully implement development initiatives within communities.

What is the difference between Economic Development Manager vs Urban Planner?

AspectEconomic Development ManagerUrban Planner
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in economics, urban planning, or related field; often certifications in economic developmentBachelor's or master's in urban planning, geography, or related field; licensure may be required
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, economic development organizations, private sectorMunicipalities, government agencies, consulting firms
Employer & Industry UsageFocuses on economic growth, business attraction, and job creationFocuses on land use, zoning, and community development

While both roles aim to improve communities, the Economic Development Manager concentrates on economic growth and business development, whereas the Urban Planner focuses on land use and urban design. Their skills and work environments often overlap, but their core objectives differ.

What are the most commonly searched types of Economic Development jobs in Alabama? The most popular types of Economic Development jobs in Alabama are:
What are popular job titles related to Economic Development Manager jobs in Alabama? For Economic Development Manager jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Alabama are hiring for Economic Development Manager jobs? Cities in Alabama with the most Economic Development Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Economic Development Manager job openings in Alabama as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,376 per year, or $44.9 per hour.
Economic Development Coordinator

$92K - $102K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

General Position Summary * Potential $0 Individual Health/Dental Premiums. * RSA - Defined Retirement Plan. Incumbent supports the planning, coordination, and implementation of economic development initiatives designed to attract, retain, and expand businesses within the City of Madison, AL.

Reporting to the Mayor, this position plays a key role in executing strategic development programs, managing relationships with business leaders and regional partners, and advancing projects that promote sustainable economic growth. The role requires a balance of strategic planning, project management, marketing, and stakeholder engagement to strengthen the local economy and support job creation. Examples of Responsibilities Implements economic development strategies and programs aligned with the City's long-term economic development goals.

Markets the City of Madison to prospective investors for commercial and industrial development opportunities and collaborates with City leadership to develop incentive packages. Advises City officials on potential benefits or liabilities related to commercial or industrial buildings, land, or companies considered for annexation. Develops and executes industrial and commercial recruitment strategies; manages and coordinates business attraction, retention, and expansion efforts.

Serves as the primary liaison with developers, site selectors, businesses, chambers of commerce, regional development organizations, and other economic partners for economic development projects. Promotes the City and coordinates with the Convention and Visitors Bureau and all organizations involved in tourism. Serves as staff liaison to the City of Madison Industrial Development Board, including preparation of agendas and minutes, review of abatement applications, and meeting coordination.

Conducts market research and economic analyses to identify growth opportunities and emerging industry trends; performs fiscal impact analysis utilizing advanced data and communication tools. Supports development negotiations, incentive packages, and project proposals in collaboration with the Mayor's Office, Legal, and Finance. Assists in managing economic development projects from initial inquiry through project completion.

Coordinates with planning, zoning, infrastructure, and permitting teams to facilitate and streamline development projects. Prepares reports, presentations, and data analyses for City leadership, elected officials, and economic development stakeholders. Exercises initiative and creativity in identifying opportunities to increase revenue and expand the City's economic base.

Identifies state, federal, and regional funding opportunities to assist commercial and industrial business development and tourism coordination. Responds to business inquiries and tracks prospective commercial, retail, and industrial development opportunities. Represents the City at industry meetings, trade events, and regional partnerships, serving as a liaison between the City of Madison and key stakeholders.

Works collaboratively with stakeholders to market and promote economic development initiatives and tourism activities within the City. Job Conditions: Job may require nonstandard working hours to meet deadlines and to attend evening meetings and work sessions, and occasional work sessions, and occasional work on weekends. Must maintain strong performance records.

Must maintain driver's license to drive independently, with strong driving records; and records are periodically checked by the City. Must have a strong background record due to accessibility to sensitive and proprietary information. Ability to consistently demonstrate a high level of judgement and discretion required for maintaining confidential and proprietary information.

Minimal Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Economics, Public Administration, Urban Planning, Business Administration, or a related field. 5 years of experience in economic development, community development, planning, or related fields. Proven experience of businesses recruitment and retention, with a focus on increasing revenue in a strong and steady pace.

Experience managing complex development projects and working with public-private partnerships. Strong analytical, communication, and relationship-building skills. Extensive experience working in a high growth area navigating public-private relationships are key.

Experience working with municipal governments or regional development organizations. Knowledge of workforce development programs and regional economic trends. Supplemental Information Knowledge of economic development principles, strategies, and best practices related to commercial, retail, and industrial growth.

Knowledge of municipal government operations, zoning regulations, annexation processes, and land development procedures. Knowledge of market research methods, economic analysis techniques, and fiscal impact evaluation. Knowledge of state, federal, and regional economic & tourism development incentives, funding sources, and grant opportunities.

Skill in conducting economic and market research to identify development opportunities and emerging industry trends. Skill in preparing professional reports, presentations, and data analyses for leadership, elected officials, and community stakeholders. Skill in negotiation, collaboration, and relationship management with developers, businesses, and regional economic partners.

Ability to coordinate and manage economic development projects from initial inquiry through completion. Ability to analyze economic data and trends to support strategic planning and decision-making. Ability to effectively communicate and represent the City with businesses, developers, regional organizations, and other stakeholders.

Physical Capabilities: Ability to communicate verbally and orally with public. Ability to prepare and make public presentations. Ability to work on computer for extended periods of time.

Must be able to travel and drive. Stamina to work 12 - 14 hour days, several times per month.