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Economic Development Manager Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Weitz

Business Development Manager

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

The Business Development Manager is responsible for working with the business development team in ... Additionally, this role is responsible for researching economic trends and commercial construction ...

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All JobsEconomic Development JobsEconomic Development Manager JobsEconomic Development Manager Jobs in Iowa

Economic Development Manager information

See Iowa salary details

$29.1K

$96.8K

$145.6K

How much do economic development manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development manager in Iowa is $96,763.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,600.00 and $116,900.00 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 Iowa? The most popular types of Economic Development jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Economic Development Manager jobs in Iowa? For Economic Development Manager jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Economic Development Manager jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Economic Development Manager jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Economic Development Manager jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Economic Development Manager job openings:
Economic Development Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Economic Development Manager job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,763 per year, or $46.5 per hour.
Workforce Development & Education Partnerships Manager

Workforce Development & Education Partnerships Manager

Diligent Solutions

Cedar Rapids, IA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:The Workforce Development & Education Partnerships Manager leads workforce development initiatives that strengthen talent pipelines and align education with industry workforce needs. This role serves as a liaison between employers, educational institutions, workforce organizations, economic development partners, and community stakeholders.
This role is ideal for a strategic relationship-builder who enjoys connecting industry, education, and workforce partners to create sustainable talent pipelines and workforce development opportunities.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Support partnership exploration with K-12 schools, technical colleges, community colleges, universities, workforce boards, chambers, and economic development organizations.

  • Facilitate curriculum alignment discussions to ensure educational programs reflect current industry workforce needs.

  • Coordinate discussions for workforce development initiatives, career pathways, internships, apprenticeships, job shadowing, and work-based learning opportunities.

  • Manage stakeholder engagement activities, including meetings, site visits, presentations, advisory councils, and partnership events.

  • Develop workforce development strategies, action plans, reports, and executive briefings.

  • Track partnership outcomes, workforce metrics, and talent pipeline activities.

  • Coordinate project logistics, meeting schedules, communications, and follow-up actions across multiple stakeholders.

  • Support career awareness, workforce marketing, and student engagement initiatives.

Key Competencies:
  • Workforce Development

  • Education Partnerships

  • Curriculum Alignment

  • Stakeholder Engagement

  • Project Management

  • Strategic Communication

  • Relationship Management

Skills & Requirements
Required Experience:
  • Associate's degree in Business Administration, Communications, Public Administration, Human Resources, Education, Community Development, or related field; Bachelor's degree preferred.

  • 3+ years of experience in administrative support, project coordination, community engagement, workforce development, education partnerships, or related fields.

  • Strong organizational and project coordination skills with exceptional attention to detail.

  • Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication abilities.

  • Experience building and maintaining professional relationships across diverse stakeholder groups.

  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel, PowerPoint, Word, and Outlook.

  • Ability to manage multiple priorities and work independently in a fast-paced environment.

  • Strong problem-solving, critical thinking, and relationship-management skills.

Preferred:
  • Experience working with educational institutions, workforce development boards, economic development organizations, or nonprofit partners.

  • Familiarity with talent pipeline development, apprenticeship programs, or workforce initiatives.

  • Experience coordinating community outreach, stakeholder engagement, or corporate social responsibility programs.

  • Knowledge of project management methodologies and reporting tools.

  • Experience with CRM systems, stakeholder databases, or data visualization tools such as Power BI.

  • Event planning and program coordination experience.

Qualifications

Apply