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Economic Development Manager Jobs in West Virginia

WV's Promise Youth Alliance Inc

Washington, WV · 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 ...

$401K/yr

Conduct full feasibility analyses including site evaluation, governmental approvals, and economic assessments. * Perform and manage all project due diligence and administer the development-related ...

New

Economic Service Worker

Charleston, WV · On-site

$35K - $61K/yr

... development to support long-term career growth. Employees also receive a full benefits package that ... Entering and managing client data in appropriate systems and dashboards. Assisting in the recovery ...

WV · On-site

$90 - $112/hr

... development goals. The Director reports to the City Manager and supervises one full‑time ... economic development, or a related field. * Five years of prior planning and zoning experience ...

New

Case Manager

Huntington, WV · On-site

$38K - $50K/yr

... economic development, health care, and cultural enrichment. * Cultivate the development of an ... Wellness Programs - PEIA provides various care management programs and the Pathways to Wellness ...

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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 8, 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.

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, 15% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,755 per year, or $38.3 per hour.

Executive Director, West Virginia Water Development Authority

West Virginia

Charleston, WV • On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

Other

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Nature of Work Reports To: West Virginia Water Development Authority Board Position Summary Shape the Future of West Virginia's Infrastructure Are you a visionary leader ready to build the infrastructure that will define the future of West Virginia. The West Virginia Water Development Authority (WDA) is seeking an Executive Director who is passionate about public service, economic development, and ensuring the health and resilience of our state's vital water, wastewater, and stormwater systems. As the Executive Director, you will not just manage operations; you will serve as the chief architect of the Authority's strategic future.

You will be the bridge between policy and implementation, driving multi-million-dollar infrastructure investments that directly improve the quality of life for all West Virginians. This is a unique opportunity to lead a mission-driven team, steward the West Virginia Infrastructure Fund, and play a critical role in the growth and prosperity of the Mountain State. Examples of Work Key Leadership Skills and Abilities: Strategic Visionary: You will lead the implementation of strategic initiatives and board directives, translating high-level policy into tangible progress for communities statewide.

Financial Steward: Overseeing the fiduciary health of the Authority and the Infrastructure Fund, you will manage bond issuances, complex financing instruments, and annual budgets, ensuring every dollar is invested to maximum effect. Collaborative Catalyst: You will serve as a key leader within the West Virginia Infrastructure and Jobs Development Council (IJDC), chairing the Technical Review and Funding Committee. You will unite diverse stakeholders-from elected officials and local governments to engineering firms and federal agencies-to solve complex infrastructure challenges.

Organizational Leader: You will cultivate a culture of excellence, providing mentorship and professional development to a team of dedicated experts, and serving as the public face of the Authority before the Governor's Office, the Legislature, and the public. Successful Applicants will be: A Strategic Thinker: You possess the ability to balance competing priorities, navigate complex regulatory environments, and drive long-term planning without losing sight of immediate operational needs. A Trusted Expert: You have a deep understanding of public finance, infrastructure funding, and governmental administration.

You can articulate complex financial and policy issues clearly to both technical experts and lay audiences. You will work closely with the Governor's Office and high-level executives. A Relationship Builder: You are a seasoned communicator who builds bridges across government, industry, and the public.

You bring people together to achieve common goals through consensus and influence. A Driven Professional: You are committed to integrity, innovation, and impact. You approach challenges with a solutions-oriented mindset and are energized by the prospect of creating lasting change.

Minimum Qualifications Preferred Qualifications: Professional Background: A Bachelor's degree in Public Administration, Finance, Business Administration, Engineering, Law, or a related field. Significant executive or senior management experience is essential. Industry Expertise: Proven experience in public infrastructure financing, municipal utilities, economic development, or state government operations.

Knowledge of West Virginia's specific water and wastewater infrastructure landscape is highly advantageous. Leadership Presence: Demonstrated success in managing complex organizations, high-stakes budgets, and multidisciplinary teams. Communication Mastery: Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present compelling recommendations and reports to high-level governmental entities.

Other Information Salary Range: $120,000 - $140,000, Commensurate with Qualifications and Experience