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Economic Development Manager Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Tribal Planner

Somerton, AZ · On-site

$47K - $53K/yr

The Tribal Planner is responsible for assisting, discussing, and implementing economic development ... Monitors operations, manages costs, and resolves technical and personnel issues; assures compliance ...

Showing results 41-60

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 Sep 13, 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 is an economic development manager?

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.

Is economic development a good career path?

Economic development managers plan and implement strategies to improve local economies, often working with government agencies, businesses, and community organizations. The role requires strong analytical, communication, and project management skills, and it can offer opportunities for advancement and community impact. It is considered a stable career with demand in many regions, especially for those with relevant education and experience.

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 cities in Arizona are hiring for Economic Development Manager jobs?

Cities in Arizona with the most Economic Development Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Economic Development Manager job openings in Arizona as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,003 per year, or $46.2 per hour.

Manager, Business and Asset Development

Litchfield Park, AZ

Liberty
Individual, Family and Community Social Assistance • 501 - 1,000 employees

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Algonquin Power & Utilities Corp. (AQN), parent company of Liberty, is a diversified international generation, transmission, and distribution utility. AQN is committed to providing safe, reliable, and cost-effective energy and water solutions through our portfolio of utility investments to over one million customer connections, largely in the United States and Canada.

 

At Algonquin, our vision is to be the most trusted utility service provider in North America – a premium regulated utility, known for our customer focus, commitment to sustainability, and strong community partnerships. Our employees are at the heart of that vision. We believe that when people are empowered to learn, grow, and contribute their ideas, we can achieve remarkable results together.

 

We are building a culture that values integrity, inclusivity, and innovation. By joining Algonquin, you’ll be part of a team that is shaping the future of energy and water, while creating long-term value for our customers, communities, employees, and shareholders.

Purpose

This position plans, organizes and manages the activities of the Development team within the Engineering Department. Develops and implements guidelines relating to the various technical and administrative aspects of reviewing and processing development proposals taking these from developer/development identification to installed assets and new customers to Liberty’s utilities., oversees and participates in writing and negotiating development agreements. Manages administrative and operational matters, including performance, workload and strategic planning. Performs other duties as assigned.

Accountabilities
  • Directs the preparation, negotiations, implementation and monitory of comprehensive development/redevelopment agreements throughout Arizona and Texas.
  • Works closely with immediate and neighboring cities Economic Development Directors on potential growth opportunities forecasting within 1-5 year timeframe.
  • Manages Liberty’s Certificate of Convenience & Necessity (CCN) where expansion of our existing area is needed for development.
  • Working directly with Customers, State Service Commission Staff, Executives, Facility Staff, Builders/Developers, Contractors, Architects, and Engineers to assess opportunities and develop comprehensive proposals to include additional company program offerings.
  • Identify areas within our current service area that may be future targets for redevelopment and build relationships with the stakeholders prior to redevelopment.
  • Representing the company in targeted local, regional and/or with professional organizations; including trade and business shows.
  • Represents Liberty with various outside agencies such as the Arizona Corporation Commission, and organizations on community development concerns.
  • Serves as a representative of Liberty in regional and state boards, committees and associations.
  • Make presentations to public and professional groups on planning and development issues.
  • Provides relevant materials as needed for rate cases, including testifying where needed.
  • Communicates and presents reports and agreements.
  • Work closely with System Engineering on updating hydraulic modeling and forecasting committed growth timeline as well as potential growth opportunities needed to make decisions on asset expansions to serve such growth.
  • Work closely with Finance & Accounting on developing and presenting opportunities and how they could impact rates & financial health.
  • Directs and reviews SOX key control revenue process which includes monthly sign offs and communication with external and internal auditors.
  • Participates in company long-range planning efforts as related to development services.
  • Supervises and directs activities of team by assigning and monitoring work activities, providing technical assistance and direction of staff, reviewing reports and other documents,  preparing performance reviews and resolving internal concerns.
Education and Experience
  • Bachelor degree or equivalent
  • 10+ years in business and project development
  • 3+ years at manager or equivalanet level preferred
  • Utility Industry economic develpment experience beneficial

Our purpose is sustaining energy and water for life, and it is demonstrated in everything we do as a business and as an employee team.

As the successful candidate

Our Mission

We provide safe, secure, reliable, cost-effective and sustainable energy and water solutions. Our mission is how we create value as an organization—it is what drives us every day to fulfill our purpose.

Our Vision

We better the lives of our customers and communities. Our vision is what we see as possible. It's where we aspire to be, what we want to achieve and how we'll make an impact. It guides and keeps us on the right path as we work towards fulfilling our purposes.

Our Guiding Principles

  • Customer Centric
  • Integrity
  • Entrepreneurial
  • Teamwork
  • Owner mindset
  • Outcome focused
  • Continuous learning

What we offer

Collaborative environment with a genuine flexible working policy

401k Plan with matching

Share purchase/match plan

Leadership Development Program

Volunteer paid days off

Employee Assistance Program

Achievement fund

Free parking

Variety of Health & Wellness programs

Discount and Perks program

We are focused on building a diverse and inclusive workforce.  If you are excited about this role and are not confident you meet all the qualification requirements, we encourage you to apply to investigate the opportunity further.

We are an equal opportunity employer and value each person's unique background, diversity, experiences, perspectives and talents.

Full participation of all employees in a safe, healthy and respectful environment is key to individual and company success. We are committed to fully utilizing the abilities of all our employees and expect each of our employees to honour this commitment in their daily responsibilities.