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Economic Development Manager Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Director of Economic Development

Conroe, TX · On-site

$110.38 - $149.34/hr

JOB SUMMARY The Director of Economic Development is responsible for ensuring the consistency and ... Experience with property management, project management, public relations, and partnership ...

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Economic Development Manager information

See Texas salary details

$28.9K

$96K

$144.4K

How much do economic development manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development manager in Texas is $95,979.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,900.00 and $116,000.00 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 Texas? The most popular types of Economic Development jobs in Texas are:
What cities in Texas are hiring for Economic Development Manager jobs? Cities in Texas with the most Economic Development Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Economic Development Manager job openings in Texas 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 $95,979 per year, or $46.1 per hour.

Director of Economic Development

City of Conroe

Conroe, TX • On-site

$110.38 - $149.34/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


City Of Conroe rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

648th of 842 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

JOB SUMMARY

The Director of Economic Development is responsible for ensuring the consistency and delivery of the CIDC message relative to development and implementation of the CIP Strategic Plan. Also responsible for overseeing the organization's operations, finances, strategic planning, public relations, and contractual and governmental relationships.

QUALIFICATIONS Education and Experience:

Minimum five years to seven years of experience in commercial, real estate development, marketing, and sales or a bachelor's degree in a related field. Experience with property management, project management, public relations, and partnership development. Minimum five years of experience with real estate activities. Minimum three years of experience with transportation activities.

Special Requirements:

Graduate of the Oklahoma University Economic Development Institute. Possession of a valid Texas Class C driver's license or higher.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  • Knowledge of city budgeting procedures and policies and ability to monitor expenditures and revenues.
  • Knowledge and understanding of various county, federal, state, and local laws, regulations, codes, ordinances, and or policies applicable to economic development.
  • Knowledge regarding the transaction of real estate sale and/or purchase.
  • Knowledge regarding public transportation systems.
  • Ability to clearly and effectively communicate both orally and in writing, including the ability to give effective presentations to City Council, employee groups, citizen groups, developers, builders, businesses and industries, etc.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The work is sedentary and requires the ability to exert up to 10 pounds of force occasionally and/or a negligible amount of force frequently or constantly to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects, including the human body. Additionally, the following physical abilities are required: feeling, hearing, mental acuity, repetitive motions, speaking, standing, talking, visual acuity, and walking.

BENEFITS

The City of Conroe offers great benefits such as medical, dental, vision and life insurance, retirement plan, employee assistance program, paid time off and free membership at the City's pool and recreation center facilities. Starting salary for this position is $129,863 annually.

The City of Conroe is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Must pass background check and pre-employment substance abuse screening as a condition of employment. A motor vehicle record check and job-related doctor's physical exam may also be required. Safety-sensitive positions remain subject to random drug and alcohol testing after hire.

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