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Economic Development Manager Jobs in Massachusetts

City of Springfield

Project Manager

Springfield, MA

$65K - $85K/yr

Position Purpose/Summary Responsible for managing economic development and neighborhood revitalization projects for the City. Special projects, such as conference planning, small business assistance ...

Mass Development

TDI Program Manager

Boston, MA · Hybrid

We're seeking aTDI Program Manager to lead the collection, analysis, and communication of impact ... Bachelor's degree in architecture, planning, economics, community development, political science ...

Mass Development

TDI Program Manager

Boston, MA · On-site

We're seeking a TDI Program Manager to lead the collection, analysis, and communication of impact ... Bachelor's degree in architecture, planning, economics, community development, political science ...

Mass Development

TDI Program Manager

Boston, MA · On-site

We're seeking aTDI Program Manager to lead the collection, analysis, and communication of impact ... Bachelor's degree in architecture, planning, economics, community development, political science ...

Mass Development

Vice President, Lending

Worcester, MA · On-site

... economic development projects, and communities throughout Massachusetts. In addition to managing a lending portfolio, the Vice President actively promotes MassDevelopments financing programs ...

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All JobsEconomic Development JobsEconomic Development Manager JobsEconomic Development Manager Jobs in Massachusetts

Economic Development Manager information

See Massachusetts salary details

$33.9K

$112.5K

$169.3K

How much do economic development manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development manager in Massachusetts is $112,511.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $89,000.00 and $136,000.00 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 Massachusetts? The most popular types of Economic Development jobs in Massachusetts are:
What are popular job titles related to Economic Development Manager jobs in Massachusetts? For Economic Development Manager jobs in Massachusetts, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Economic Development Manager jobs in Massachusetts look for? The top searched job categories for Economic Development Manager jobs in Massachusetts are:
Economic Development Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Economic Development Manager job openings in Massachusetts 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 $112,511 per year, or $54.1 per hour.

Director of Economic Development

City of Medford

Medford, MA • On-site

$1.7K - $2.0K/wk

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

POSITION: Director of Economic Development
DEPARTMENT: Planning, Development, and Sustainability 
HOURS OF WORK: Full-time (35 hours/week) Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 8:30am – 4:30pm; Wednesday 8:30 am - 7:30 pm; Friday 8:30 am - 12:30. Nights and Weekends as needed.
SALARY: Non - Union CAF 15 ($1,770.41 – 2,071.39/Week)
BASIC FUNCTION:
The Director of Economic Development is responsible for developing, managing, and executing strategic initiatives that promote economic growth, recovery, and resilience within Medford’s business community. This role involves designing and supporting economic development programs, fostering partnerships, and leading efforts to attract and retain businesses. The Director also plays a key role in marketing Medford as a prime location for business investment, with the overarching goal of expanding the city’s tax base and creating sustainable employment opportunities for residents.
This position operates under the general direction of the Mayor and the PDS Director to advance the city's economic development goals in alignment with the Mayor’s vision. The individual in this role will work closely with the Mayor, engaging in regular consultation to ensure clear communication, alignment on strategic priorities, and the effective execution of business and economic development initiatives under the Mayor’s leadership.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
The essential functions or duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.
  • Functions as an advisor to the Mayor, the Director of Planning, Development, and Sustainability (PDS), as well as other City officials on economic development policies and plans.
  • Engages with business owners and real estate developers to understand their needs, long-term goals, and planned initiatives, identifying opportunities to align private sector interests with the City’s strategic priorities and vision.
  • Facilitates the predevelopment process for new commercial and residential projects; routinely meets with key stakeholders to support major economic activity and ensure City involvement adds value and direction to proposed developments.
  • Advocates for and implements policies and programs within municipal government to encourage long-term economic growth in the City; manages business retention and expansion efforts in the City’s various commercial districts; creates and manages support initiatives for the City’s small businesses.
  • Maintains a detailed portfolio of economic activity in the City, including new business activity, development, and employment statistics.
  • Supports relevant City boards and committees tasked with licensing, evaluating the success of economic development initiatives, etc.
  • Acts as a representative of the City for economic development matters when interacting with state, regional, and local agencies or organizations.
  • Oversees any and all planning initiatives as they relate to economic development.
  • Applies for grants and manages earmarks in line with the goals of the department.
  • Functions as liaison to the Chamber of Commerce and other economic development organizations and community groups.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:
Minimum:
  • Bachelor’s degree in business, economics, urban planning, or related field with 3 years of related experience and 3 years of related experience in a supervisory capacity.

Beneficial:
  • Master’s degree in planning, economic development, business, or related fields would be beneficial.
  • American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) or Certified Economic Developer (CED) credential.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES: Please See Job Full Description
PHYSICAL & ENVIRONMENTAL WORKING CONDITIONS: Please See Job Full Description
ADDRESS ALL COVER LETTERS AND RESUMES TO:
Human Resources Department
City of Medford – Room 204
85 George P. Hassett Drive
Medford, MA 02155
Or send cover letter and resume with the job title in the subject line to jobs@medford-ma.gov
For the posting, please visit the City of Medford's website – www.medfordma.org
The City of Medford is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/504 Employer Residents of the City of Medford, Women, People of Color, Veterans and Persons with Disabilities are encouraged to apply.