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Economic Development Manager Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

You'll partner closely with Data Science, Engineering, Project Management, and Operations teams to ... The opportunity to help bring much-needed income and economic development to the Turtle Mountain ...

Senior Project Manager

Saint Paul, MN ยท On-site

$83K - $119K/yr

Planning and Economic Development Opening Date: 08/24/2026 Closing Date: 9/2/2026 11:59 PM Central About the Position The Senior Project Manager will expand the STAR team's capacity to manage a high ...

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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 Sep 5, 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.

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 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 job categories do people searching Economic Development Manager jobs in Minnesota look for?

The top searched job categories for Economic Development Manager jobs in Minnesota 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, 14% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,899 per year, or $48.5 per hour.

Community Development Director - $92,595 - $121,930

Undisclosed

Cloquet, MN โ€ข On-site

$93 - $122/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

The City of Cloquet, MN, is seeking a Community Development Director to work in our growing community of 12,535 residents. The primary objective of the Community Development Director is to drive Cloquets financial vitality and tax base by attracting new businesses, supporting existing ones, and creating jobs. Acting as a strategic advisor to city officials, negotiating development contracts, oversee grant management, and aligning community growth with zoning and housing policies.

Minimum qualifications

are a four-year degree from an accredited college or university in business administration, public administration, or related field with extensive course work in economics, marketing, and finance and three years increasingly responsible public administration experience with at least one year in an economic development related position.

Masters degree, experience in county or city government, and National Development Council or IEDC certification or equivalent preferred.

The 2026 salary range

for this position is $92,595 $121,930 DOQ.

Benefits:
  • Health
  • dental
  • vision
  • life insurance
  • vacation
  • sick leave (ESST)
  • Pension Benefits through PERA
  • and more!

Position is open until filled.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer / AA.

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