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Economic Development Manager Jobs in West Virginia

Executive Director

Beckley, WV ยท On-site

$120 - $160/hr

The Executive Director is responsible for strategic leadership, organizational management, resource development, partnership cultivation, financial health and regional economic advancement across ...

WV's Promise Youth Alliance Inc

Washington, WV ยท On-site

$16.75 - $20.50/hr

... development. Service duties may include; recruit, train, manage volunteers, develop media kits ... Community Outreach , Education , Community and Economic Development , Children/Youth , Hunger ...

President & CEO

Morgantown, WV ยท On-site

$120 - $180/hr

... efforts that advance economic, business and community development throughout Morgantown and ... Experience leading teams and managing organizational finances * Strong investor relations and ...

Economic Service Worker

Charleston, WV ยท On-site

$35K - $61K/yr

... professional development assistance, and performance feedback. Employees also receive a full ... managing the delivery of state and federal economic assistance programs such as SNAP, Medicaid, and ...

Economic Service Worker

Charleston, WV ยท On-site

$35K - $61K/yr

... development to support long-term career growth. Employees also receive a full benefits package that ... managing the delivery of state and federal economic assistance programs such as SNAP, Medicaid, and ...

Economic Service Worker

Charleston, WV ยท On-site

$35K - $61K/yr

... development to support long-term career growth. Employees also receive a full benefits package that ... managing the delivery of state and federal economic assistance programs such as SNAP, Medicaid, and ...

E&T Case Manager

Martinsburg, WV ยท On-site

$17/hr

Our work spans workforce and economic development, education, research and evaluation, and ... About the Role The E&T Case Manager will support the delivery and administration of Employment ...

E&T Case Manager

Martinsburg, WV ยท On-site

$17/hr

Our work spans workforce and economic development, education, research and evaluation, and ... About the Role The E&T Case Manager will support the delivery and administration of Employment ...

Our work spans workforce and economic development, education, research and evaluation, and ... About the Role The E&T Case Manager will support the delivery and administration of Employment ...

... development to support long-term career growth. Employees also receive a full benefits package that ... managing the delivery of state and federal economic assistance programs such as SNAP, Medicaid, and ...

$70K/yr

... chambers, economic development organizations, senior leaders, faculty, students, funders, and community partners * Strong communication, organization, problem-solving, project management, and ...

$70K/yr

... chambers, economic development organizations, senior leaders, faculty, students, funders, and community partners * Strong communication, organization, problem-solving, project management, and ...

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Economic Development Manager information

See West Virginia salary details

$24K

$79.8K

$120K

How much do economic development manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development manager in West Virginia is $79,755.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,100.00 and $96,400.00 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 West Virginia?

The most popular types of Economic Development jobs in West Virginia are:

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Economic Development Manager job openings in West Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,755 per year, or $38.3 per hour.

Executive Director

Beckley, WV โ€ข On-site

The Edventure Group
Education Programs Administrationย โ€ขย 1 - 10 employees

$120 - $160/hr

Other

This job post hasย expired today.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Summary:

The New River Gorge Regional Development Authority (NRGRDA) seeks a visionary, entrepreneurial, and experienced Executive Director to lead West Virginiaโ€™s most prominent regional economic development organization. The Executive Director is responsible for strategic leadership, organizational management, resource development, partnership cultivation, financial health and regional economic advancement across Fayette, Nicholas, Raleigh, and Summers Counties. This role requires strong communication and leadership skills, exceptional analytical abilities, innovative problem-solving and a willingness to take initiative to deliver exceptional service to businesses, local governments, and communities in the four-county region.

Primary Responsibilities:
  • Develop and implement the organizationโ€™s strategic vision in alignment with board priorities.
  • Identify and pursue opportunities for regional economic development, innovation, and strategic partnerships.
  • Serve as the primary liaison between the staff and the NRGRDA Board of Directors.
  • Represent NRGRDA at the local, state, and federal levels on matters of economic development and policy
  • Cultivate relationships with public officials, private industry partners, nonprofit entities, investors, lenders, and philanthropic foundations.
  • Act as the public face and principal spokesperson of NRGRDA through speaking engagements, media interviews, and stakeholder convenings.
  • Lead initiatives in infrastructure development, workforce readiness, and site preparation.
  • Support development and implementation of catalytic projects involving industrial sites, infrastructure, tourism assets, downtown revitalization, and entrepreneurship initiatives.
  • Provide project guidance to staff, contractors, consultants, and partner organizations
  • Ensure day-to-day operations of the organization align with the mission and comply with regulations.
  • Facilitate cross-agency collaboration, particularly with regional stakeholders.
  • Maintain a high-performance culture focused on measurable outcomes and regional impact.
  • Identify, pursue, and secure federal, state, philanthropic, and private funding opportunities.
  • Ensure financial integrity through sound management of resources and compliance with funding guidelines.
  • Oversee organizational budgeting, financial management, compliance, auditing, and reporting requirements.
  • Create a sustainable revenue growth strategy.
Requirements:
  • Bachelorโ€™s degree in Economic Development, Business, Public Administration, Planning, Finance, or related field. Masterโ€™s degree preferred.
  • Progressively responsible leadership experience in economic and community development, business development, nonprofit management, public administration or a related field.
  • Understanding of regional economic development authorities, industrial site development, and entrepreneurial ecosystems. Experience preferred.
  • Proven experience generating new revenue and building sustainable funding models.
  • Experience managing programs, budgets, grants, staff, projects and working with external stakeholders.
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