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Economic Development Manager Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

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Economic Development Manager information

See Michigan salary details

$27K

$89.8K

$135.1K

How much do economic development manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development manager in Michigan is $89,792.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,000.00 and $108,500.00 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.

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 Michigan?

The most popular types of Economic Development jobs in Michigan are:

What are popular job titles related to Economic Development Manager jobs in Michigan?

For Economic Development Manager jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Economic Development Manager jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Economic Development Manager job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,792 per year, or $43.2 per hour.

Economic Development Manager

City of Holland, MI

Holland, MI โ€ข On-site

$101K - $121K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Salary : $101,192.00 - $121,451.00 Annually
Location : City Hall, MI
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 202400217
Department: City Manager
Division: Manager
Opening Date: 09/02/2026
Closing Date: 10/2/2026 11:59 PM Eastern
Description
Under the general direction of the City Manager, this position is responsible for providing professional support for the City's economic, community, and housing development efforts, and provides an advanced level of professional support for development and redevelopment functions in coordination with other City departments and regional, state, and development partners.
Examples of Duties
1. Develop and implement strategies to promote economic growth and vitality within the City of Holland.
2. Acts as the primary staff person responsible for attracting and retaining businesses, industries, and investment opportunities to the area while working in collaboration with local and state economic development agencies.
3. Leads in the development and implementation of the Housing Support Policy and related programs, including but not limited to Brownfield Tax Increment Financing (TIF), including housing gap subsidy strategies. Manages a broad range of local, state, and federal incentive tools to further housing development.
4. Coordinates economic development initiatives for the City, develops and implements economic development policy, and provides information and guidance to regional partners to assist in the location of new business in the City.
5. Coordinates tax abatement programs in collaboration with Lakeshore Advantage. Duties include helping businesses to understand the program benefits, working with companies to prepare applications and ensure timely and accurate submissions, preparing and monitoring applications for State Tax Commission review process, reporting job creation, and taxes paid and benefits to the community from abatement applications.
6. Coordinate with developers, architects, and contractors to ensure projects align with City goals and regulations. Facilitate partnerships between public and private sectors to leverage resources for economic development initiatives.
7. Collaborate with local businesses, chambers of commerce, and economic development organizations to support existing businesses and foster a culture of entrepreneurship.
8. Provides staff support to City Commission and Brownfield Redevelopment Authority by preparing reports, notices, and recommendations, attending meetings, assisting applicants, explaining the hearing process, answering inquiries, conducting public presentations to communicate and inform on the benefits and costs of a project or program, devises solutions, and coordinates efforts with other City departments.
9. Coordinate with City officials, community leaders, and stakeholders to support infrastructure improvements and public amenities that enhance economic development efforts.
10. Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of economic development programs and initiatives, adjusting as needed to achieve desired outcomes.
11. Conduct market research and analysis to identify market trends, opportunities, and challenges, and prepare a variety of written communications, including analytical reports, graphs, and correspondence.
12. Represent the City in meetings with community boards, neighborhood organizations, and commissions as required, and attend economic development conferences, events, and meetings with stakeholders to promote opportunities and attract investment.
13. Identify and pursue grant opportunities, with assistance from the City's Grant Manager, to fund economic development projects and programs.
14. Manage budgets, expenditures, and financial resources related to economic development efforts.
15. Demonstrates courteous and cooperative behavior when interacting with the public and staff and acts in a manner that promotes an effective workplace culture.
16. May lead various initiatives as directed by the City Manager.
17. Performs other duties as assigned.
Typical Qualifications
1. Bachelor's degree in public administration, urban planning, business management, or a related field. A master's degree is preferred.
2. A minimum of two years of experience working for a municipality, 501C3, or private entity in economic development or urban planning.
3. Knowledge of Tax Increment Financing (TIF), Brownfield Redevelopment Authorities, and other economic development tools and financing practices.
4. Interpersonal skills to establish and maintain effective working relationships with a diverse group of individuals including City leadership, public officials, community stakeholders, developers, the public, and all levels of City staff.
5. Effective communicator, both verbally and in writing.
We offer a complete benefits package to full-time employees including health care, dental, vision, retirement, deferred compensation plans, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, long-term disability, holidays, and paid time off.