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Economic Development Manager Jobs in Missouri (NOW HIRING)

This role is for a full-stack business development and operations leader - someone who can identify ... Fluency with funnel metrics, unit economics, pipeline management, and revenue reporting.

New

City Manager

Nevada, MO

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • PTO

This individual will have the opportunity to support economic development, advance strategic ... Demonstrated expertise in budgeting, financial management, capital planning, and resource ...

City Manager

Nevada, MO · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • PTO

This individual will have the opportunity to support economic development, advance strategic ... Demonstrated expertise in budgeting, financial management, capital planning, and resource ...

City Manager

Nevada, MO

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • PTO

This individual will have the opportunity to support economic development, advance strategic ... Demonstrated expertise in budgeting, financial management, capital planning, and resource ...

Economic Development Alignment: Collaborate with local economic development leaders by aligning ... Strategic Enrollment Management : Implement effective strategies to increase enrollment and improve ...

Showing results 21-40

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 Aug 20, 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 cities in Missouri are hiring for Economic Development Manager jobs?

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

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.

$65K - $75K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

Description

Development Specialist  

The Housing Authority of Kansas City, Missouri is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Development Specialist. Our Development Specialist supports the Planning and Development department of the Housing Authority of Kansas City, Missouri (HAKC) in fulfilling the following goals:

  • The creation and preservation of affordable housing including public housing and project based Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV)
  • The planning and development of new programs to create or preserve high quality affordable housing and supportive services for residents.
  • Analysis and development of agency policies and plans in support of Authority's mission of providing housing opportunities and supportive services for low-income families in Kansas City, Missouri.

Examples of Essential Duties and Responsibilities (A full job description can be found on agency website.)

  • Leading of planning and development projects assigned.
  • Research and analysis of issues in the development of affordable housing. These issues may include project financing, demographics, zoning, property management, supportive services, and government regulations and approvals.
  • Grant preparation, management and reporting.
  • Preparation, supervision and maintenance of project/grant budgets according to Authority and HUD requirements. Budget analysis and forecasting, and preparation of budget revision requests.
  • Preparation of requests for proposals or qualifications (RFP or RFQ), and supervision of contracts with planners, developers, architects, attorneys and other professionals.
  • Monitoring and processing of contractor accounts payable.
  • Project coordination with other HAKC departments, resident leaders, and leaders in the communities where HAKC developments are located. 

Minimum Education and Experience

Advanced degree in Urban Planning, Public Administration, Business Administration or a related field. A minimum of five (5) years' experience in urban planning, real estate development, low-income housing development, community and economic development, or related field. Knowledge of public housing and/or other Department of Housing and Urban Development programs, real estate and housing finance, and community development practices.


The Housing Authority is an equal opportunity employer.Â