ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Economic Development Manager Jobs in Missouri (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsEconomic Development JobsEconomic Development Manager JobsEconomic Development Manager Jobs in Missouri

Economic Development Manager information

See Missouri salary details

$29.1K

$96.6K

$145.4K

How much do economic development manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development manager in Missouri is $96,634.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,400.00 and $116,800.00 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 Missouri?

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

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

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

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

The top searched job categories for Economic Development Manager jobs in Missouri are:

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

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

Economic Development Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Economic Development Manager job openings in Missouri as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,634 per year, or $46.5 per hour.

Director, Destination SEMO - Economic and Workforce Development

Cape Girardeau, MO • On-site

Southeast Missouri State University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 501 - 1,000 employees
Learn more about Southeast Missouri State Universityexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Develop and implement programs and initiatives to invite corporate and private organizations to campus through space rental and specialty events

  • Coordinate campus resources, experiences, and partnerships to create a unified Destination SEMO framework that enhances visitor engagement

  • Collaborate with campus and community partners to develop, promote, and enhance academic, cultural, athletic, recreational, and community experiences that increase regional impact

Southeast Missouri State University rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Salary: Depends on Qualifications
Location : Cape Girardeau, MO
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 202600266
Division: President
Department: Office of Economic and Workforce Development
Opening Date: 08/06/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
Position Summary
Director, Destination SEMO
Division of Economic and Workforce Development
Full-Time
Position Summary
The Director of Destination SEMO provides leadership for a university-wide engagement initiative designed to position Southeast Missouri State University as a regional destination for learning, culture, athletics, events, workforce development, and community engagement.
The Director functions as the university's destination strategist, coordinating existing campus resources, experiences, partnerships, and visitor engagement efforts into a unified Destination SEMO framework. The position serves as a connector across corporate, academic, administrative, cultural, athletic, and community-based units to create exceptional experiences that strengthen recruitment, alumni engagement, economic impact, community relationships, lifelong learning participation, and institutional reputation.
Primary Responsibilities
  • Develop the Destination SEMO vision and operational plan, based on the Fearlessly Forward strategic plan
  • Implement programs, and initiatives that invite corporate and private organizations/associations on-to campus through space rental and specialty events
  • Position SEMO as a leading regional destination for education, culture, athletics, conferences, workforce development, and community engagement
  • Analyze trends, recommend strategies, and market opportunities for growth and revenue generation.
  • Establish goals, priorities, and performance measures aligned with university objectives
  • Collaborate with Marketing and Communications to promote SEMO as a place to visit, experience, learn, and connect
  • Develop partnership and sales opportunities that increase visibility, attendance, and regional impact
  • Serve as the university advocate for visitor engagement and destination development initiatives
  • Collaborate with campus and community partners to develop, integrate, package, and promote academic, cultural, athletic, recreational, and community experiences that encourage additional engagement
  • Leverage programs, events, conferences, camps, and themed experiences to create marketable destination offerings that strengthen SEMO's appeal and regional impact
  • Lead and coordinate a seamless visitor experience across campus by collaborating with university departments to enhance visitor services, engagement programs, wayfinding, communications, and support resources
  • Ensure consistency of messaging across visitor-focused programs and experiences
  • Develop and maintain systems to measure visitor engagement, attendance, participation, satisfaction, and economic impact, prepare reports for university leadership

Required Qualifications
  • Master's degree in Higher Education Administration, Business Administration, Public Administration, Tourism Management, Economic Development, Marketing, Communications, or a related field
  • Minimum five years of progressively responsible leadership experience in one or more of the following areas: Higher Education, economic development, destination management, tourism, community engagement, workforce development
  • Experience in destination marketing, tourism development, visitor experience management, or community engagement; experience working in a college or university environment is a plus
  • Demonstrated success in building partnerships and leading collaborative initiatives
  • Strong project management, communication (verbal and written), and organizational skills
  • Demonstrated ability to measure outcomes and assess economic impact
  • Experience leading cross-functional teams and strategic initiatives
  • Experience actively engaging potential clients and customers in a sales capacity
  • Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain professional relationships within and external to the organization
  • Experience handling sensitive and confidential information
  • Demonstrated experience managing budgets and revenue sources

Required Information & Deadline
Application Deadline: To ensure full consideration, applications must be received by August 20, 2026. The position is available immediately and will remain open until filled.
To Apply: Complete the application by clicking on the APPLY button at the top of the page. You will need to submit the following in order for your application materials to be complete.
  • Cover letter
  • Current resume
  • Names and contact information of three professional references may be asked for later, if not previously submitted

Additional Information
About Southeast Missouri State University (SEMO): Founded in 1873 and accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, Southeast Missouri State University provides student-centered education and experiential learning with a foundation of liberal arts and sciences, embracing a tradition of access, exceptional teaching, and commitment to student success that significantly contributes to the development of the region and beyond. SEMO values access to high-quality, affordable education with a broadly representative student body, faculty, and staff that respects and celebrates a diverse learning community in a global society.
SEMO Fact Book
SEMO Strategic Action Plan
Southeast Missouri State University provides an excellent benefits package. For complete benefit details visit our website at

What Southeast Missouri State University employees say

Pay

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply