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Economic Development Manager information

See Louisiana salary details

$26.5K

$88.1K

$132.5K

How much do economic development manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development manager in Louisiana is $88,095.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,700.00 and $106,500.00 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Economic Development jobs in Louisiana? The most popular types of Economic Development jobs in Louisiana are:
What are popular job titles related to Economic Development Manager jobs in Louisiana? For Economic Development Manager jobs in Louisiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Economic Development Manager jobs in Louisiana look for? The top searched job categories for Economic Development Manager jobs in Louisiana are:
What cities in Louisiana are hiring for Economic Development Manager jobs? Cities in Louisiana with the most Economic Development Manager job openings:
Economic Development Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Economic Development Manager job openings in Louisiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,095 per year, or $42.4 per hour.

Economic Development Manager

ReCon Management Services

Lake Charles, LA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Description

ReCon is seeking candidates for a direct-hire opportunity for a non-profit client in Lake Charles, LA. 


Help Shape the Future of Southwest Louisiana!

Southwest Louisiana is a strategic, business-friendly region anchored by Lake Charles, offering strong economic opportunity, robust infrastructure, and an attractive cost of living. Located along the I-10 corridor, the region provides efficient access to Houston, Baton Rouge, and New Orleans, supported by interstate, rail, port, and regional air connectivity. With billions of dollars in planned and active investment across energy, petrochemical, LNG, and infrastructure sectors, Southwest Louisiana continues to see sustained project activity that drives long-term growth and ongoing demand for professional services. 


Position Overview

The Economic Development Manager supports the mission to attract new investment, retain and expand existing businesses, and foster a thriving economic environment for the five-parish region. Reporting to the Vice President of Economic Development, this position is part of a collaborative team responsible for executing business recruitment, retention, and expansion initiatives. The role includes managing projects, conducting research, coordinating with stakeholders, and providing concierge-level support to businesses considering or expanding their presence in Southwest Louisiana.


Key Responsibilities

-Business Recruitment & Expansion

Assist the VP in implementing strategies to attract target industry businesses to Southwest Louisiana.

Respond to Requests for Information (RFIs) from site selectors and state agencies, ensuring timely and accurate submissions.

Coordinate site visits, including logistics, presentations, and follow-up with prospective companies and consultants.


-Business Retention & Outreach

Support the Business Retention & Expansion (BRE) program through company visits, data collection, and tracking in CRM systems.

Identify opportunities to assist existing companies with workforce, infrastructure, or operational needs.


-Incentives & Project Support

Assist in administering local and state incentive programs, including tracking compliance and reporting requirements.

Prepare project proposals, presentations, and supporting documentation for internal and external stakeholders.

Research & Analysis

Conduct market, industry, and workforce research to support recruitment and retention initiatives.

Maintain accurate and current data in the Alliance's site and building database, CRM systems, and economic dashboards.

Collaboration & Relationship Management

Build strong relationships with local businesses, economic development partners, state agencies, utility providers, and educational institutions.

Coordinate with internal teams on marketing, communications, and workforce initiatives to support project success.

Represent the Alliance at meetings, events, and conferences as needed.


Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Economic Development, Business, Public Administration, Urban Planning, or related field (Master's preferred).

3-5 years in economic development, business development, or a related role, preferably within a chamber or nonprofit organization.

Strong organizational and project management skills; ability to manage multiple priorities under deadlines.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including experience with presentations and client-facing interactions.

Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite; familiarity with CRM platforms and economic development software is a plus.

Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment while taking initiative on assigned projects.

Discretion and professionalism in handling sensitive information.

Ability to attend early morning, evening, or weekend meetings and events as needed.

Ability to travel regionally for site visits and meetings.


 
#LI-RECON 

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