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Economic Development Manager Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

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The Production Manager is responsible for ensuring efficient production processes, maintaining high ... Company Description Brainerd Lakes Economic Development Corporation is helping to hire this ...

The Account Manager functions as single point of contact between the company and portfolio of ... Establishes relationships with economic development advocates to ensure customer needs are ...

Account management and business and economic development (50%) • Support startups in finding investors, talent, and strategic partners. • Interface with corporate development executives and ...

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Economic Development Manager information

See Minnesota salary details

$30.4K

$100.9K

$151.8K

How much do economic development manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development manager in Minnesota is $100,899.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,800.00 and $121,900.00 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 Minnesota? The most popular types of Economic Development jobs in Minnesota are:
What are popular job titles related to Economic Development Manager jobs in Minnesota? For Economic Development Manager jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Economic Development Manager jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Economic Development Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Economic Development Manager job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,899 per year, or $48.5 per hour.

Manufacturing Production Manager

Brainerd Lakes Economic Development Corporation

Minneapolis, MN • On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Position is located in Brainerd, MN.


We specialize in custom tooling solutions for a wide range of molding processes, including rotational molding, thermoforming, pressure forming, blow molding, reaction injection molding (RIM), and compression molding. Our reputation is built on engineering excellence, precision craftsmanship, and delivering innovative solutions that exceed customer expectations.


Position Summary

We are seeking an experienced and results-driven Production Manager to lead and oversee all manufacturing operations. The Production Manager is responsible for ensuring efficient production processes, maintaining high-quality standards, optimizing productivity, and managing the production schedule to meet customer delivery commitments.

This leadership role requires a hands-on manager who can effectively coordinate people, equipment, materials, and workflow while driving continuous improvement throughout the manufacturing operation.


Key Responsibilities

  • Oversee all day-to-day manufacturing operations, ensuring safe, efficient, and high-quality production.
  • Develop, maintain, and manage the master production schedule to meet customer deadlines and maximize shop efficiency.
  • Coordinate workflow between machining, fabrication, assembly, finishing, inspection, and shipping departments.
  • Monitor production performance, identify bottlenecks, and implement solutions to improve throughput and efficiency.
  • Lead, coach, and develop production supervisors and manufacturing personnel.
  • Ensure compliance with company quality standards and customer specifications.
  • Collaborate with engineering, project management, purchasing, and sales to ensure smooth project execution.
  • Monitor labor utilization, machine capacity, and material availability to support production goals.
  • Establish and track key performance indicators (KPIs) including productivity, quality, on-time delivery, and manufacturing efficiency.
  • Promote and enforce a safe work environment while ensuring compliance with all applicable safety regulations.
  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on lean manufacturing, waste reduction, and process optimization.
  • Assist with budgeting, workforce planning, and capital equipment recommendations.
  • Resolve production issues quickly while maintaining customer commitments and quality standards.


Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in manufacturing, Engineering, Operations Management, or a related field preferred; equivalent manufacturing leadership experience will be considered.
  • Five or more years of manufacturing management experience.
  • Strong understanding of CNC machining and fabrication.
  • Experience managing production scheduling.
  • Knowledge of aluminum mold manufacturing or plastics processing is highly desirable.
  • Familiarity with rotational molding, thermoforming, pressure forming, blow molding, reaction injection molding (RIM), and compression molding processes is a significant advantage.
  • Proven leadership skills with the ability to motivate, coach, and develop high-performing teams.
  • Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving abilities.
  • Experience with ERP/MRP systems and production planning software.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office, including Excel.


Preferred Skills

  • Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma experience.
  • Strong analytical and decision-making abilities.
  • Ability to prioritize multiple projects in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
  • Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.
  • Commitment to continuous improvement and operational excellence.


What We Offer

  • Competitive salary based on experience
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Paid time off and holidays
  • Retirement savings plan
  • Opportunities for professional growth and advancement
  • A collaborative, innovative manufacturing environment where craftsmanship and quality are valued

If you are a hands-on manufacturing leader who thrives in a fast-paced custom manufacturing environment and enjoys building high-performing teams, we encourage you to apply.

Company Description

Brainerd Lakes Economic Development Corporation is helping to hire this position for a member company. We work with companies in our area to help them expand and grow in MN.