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Economic Development Manager Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

City of Mesa, AZ

Economic Development Specialist

Mesa, AZ · On-site

$74K - $102K/yr

An employee in this classification may also assist Economic Development Project Managers with more complex projects. An employee in this class also performs statistical comparisons and trend analysis ...

City of Mesa

Economic Development Specialist

Mesa, AZ

$74K - $102K/yr

An employee in this classification may also assist Economic Development Project Managers with more complex projects. An employee in this class also performs statistical comparisons and trend analysis ...

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All JobsEconomic Development Manager JobsEconomic Development Manager Jobs in Arizona

Economic Development Manager information

See Arizona salary details

$28.9K

$96K

$144.4K

How much do economic development manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development manager in Arizona is $96,003.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,900.00 and $116,000.00 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 Arizona? The most popular types of Economic Development jobs in Arizona are:
What are popular job titles related to Economic Development Manager jobs in Arizona? For Economic Development Manager jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Economic Development Manager jobs in Arizona look for? The top searched job categories for Economic Development Manager jobs in Arizona are:
What cities in Arizona are hiring for Economic Development Manager jobs? Cities in Arizona with the most Economic Development Manager job openings:
Economic Development Manager jobs near you

Economic Development Specialist

Fountain Hills

Fountain Hills, AZ • On-site

$76K - $109K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

Salary: $76,909.00 - $109,980.00 Annually
Location : Fountain Hills, AZ
Job Type: Full-time
Job Number: EcDevSpclst_2026
Department: Administration
Division: Economic Development
Opening Date: 05/12/2026
Description
The Town of Fountain Hills (fountainhillsaz.gov) has an exciting full-time job opportunity in the Economic Development Division. The Town is seeking a full-time Economic Development Specialist to assist with implementing the Community Economic Development Strategy and Downtown Fountain Hills Strategy.
This position is crucial to advancing the Town of Fountain Hills' economic initiatives and providing essential support to the Economic Development Director in executing a comprehensive economic development program. The position requires professionalism and a strong commitment to representing the Town's values, facilitating effective communication, managing key projects, and engaging with stakeholders. This position requires attention to detail and a proactive approach, ensuring all interactions reflect positively on the Town's mission.
Position will remain open until filled.
  • Applications will be reviewed weekly.

Anticipated Hiring Range: $76,909 - $93,445, depending on qualifications and experience.
  • While the full pending salary range is listed in this posting, the Town anticipates hiring within the range shown above.
  • The pending salary range assumes Council approval effective July 1, 2026.

Examples of Duties
  • Assists with programs in economic development activities (i.e., business retention and expansion (BRE); marketing and recruitment; travel/tourism/; downtown/placemaking).
  • Develops and assists, under the direction of the Director with communications, marketing material and media releases related to Economic Development initiatives and functions. Oversees content creation and distribution through social media platforms, press releases, and website maintenance to promote programs, events, and community engagement.
  • Assist with planning and execution of events for Economic Development.
  • Collects, organizes, and analyzes data.
  • Assists with the administration and management of Proposition 202 and Proposition 302 grant funding, including grant application preparation, review of nonprofit funding applications, and completion of required documentation, reporting, and compliance activities.
  • Participates and promotes ongoing region-wide communication and knowledge on Economic Development issues.
  • Receives and responds in a timely manner to citizen requests, complaints, and inquiries.
  • Analyzes and compiles economic and demographic data.
  • Performs related duties as assigned.

Typical Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Economic Development, Regional Development, Economics, Urban Planning, Public Administration, Marketing, Geography, or related field.
  • Knowledge of local, state, and federal laws and regulations relevant to Economic Development.
  • Knowledge of history, tourist attractions, economic resources, business opportunities and offerings of Fountain Hills.
  • Knowledge of geographic layout of Fountain Hills and surrounding areas.
  • Ability to communicate the Town's Economic Development policies effectively
  • Ability to develop collaborative working relationships with local businesses and community organizations
  • Ability to maintain cooperative and effective relationships with intradepartmental and interdepartmental personnel, as well as external entities with whom position interacts.
  • Required to attend and complete the Basic Economic Development Course within the first year of employment. The course will be paid for by the Town.

Supplemental Information
Valid driver's license for a minimum of two years with a good driving record required.The Town currently designates this job as a "safety-sensitive position." Accordingly, the Town requires satisfactory completion of a drug and alcohol screening as a condition of employment.
The Town of Fountain Hills provides full-time employees with all the benefits that you would expect from a municipality, such as generous vacation, health insurance, retirement programs, and tuition assistance. Please explore the link below to learn more about employee benefits for you and your dependents.
The Town of Fountain Hills participates in the 401A defined contribution retirement plan through Mission Square (formerly International City/County Management Association Retirement Corporation, ICMA-RC). Full-time employees contribute 11% and the Town matches that amount 100%, in their 401A account. The Town of Fountain Hills does not participate in the ASRS (Arizona State Retirement System). The Town does not participate in the PSPRS (Public Safety Personnel Retirement System). For more information on Mission Square, the website is listed here:
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The anticipated hiring range for this position is $76,909 - $93,445, depending on qualifications and experience. Please provide your minimum yearly salary requirement.
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