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Economic Development Manager Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

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Economic Development Manager information

See Wisconsin salary details

$31.3K

$104K

$156.4K

How much do economic development manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development manager in Wisconsin is $103,984.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,300.00 and $125,700.00 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 Wisconsin? The most popular types of Economic Development jobs in Wisconsin are:
What are popular job titles related to Economic Development Manager jobs in Wisconsin? For Economic Development Manager jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Economic Development Manager jobs in Wisconsin look for? The top searched job categories for Economic Development Manager jobs in Wisconsin are:
What cities in Wisconsin are hiring for Economic Development Manager jobs? Cities in Wisconsin with the most Economic Development Manager job openings:
Economic Development Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Economic Development Manager job openings in Wisconsin as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,984 per year, or $50 per hour.

Downtown Design Manager

Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation

Madison, WI • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Downtown Design Manager
Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC)
Location: Remote (Wisconsin-based)
Employment Type: Full-time, Exempt
Reports To: Senior Director of Downtown Development

About WEDC

The Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) works with businesses, communities, and partners statewide to foster innovation, support job creation, and strengthen Wisconsin's competitive position. Driven by a mission to make Wisconsin the best place to live, work, and build a business, WEDC is a purpose-driven organization that values integrity, collaboration, and forward-thinking solutions, and invests in its people so they can help invest in Wisconsin's future.

WEDC is a Wisconsin-based organization with a remote-work-first environment. Remote work is expected to be performed in the state of Wisconsin.

Role Overview & Key Responsibilities

The Downtown Design Manager helps Wisconsin communities revitalize downtowns and historic commercial districts through design expertise, technical assistance, and strategic community development support. This role collaborates with local leaders, property owners, and partner organizations to advance redevelopment projects, strengthen district identity, and support sustainable economic growth across the state.In this role, you will:

  • Provide technical assistance and design expertise to communities pursuing downtown and commercial district revitalization initiatives
  • Support redevelopment projects through design guidance, schematic renderings, and assistance navigating local review and permitting processes
  • Serve as a subject matter expert on building design, historic preservation, downtown development best practices, and related incentive programs
  • Develop and deliver workshops, training programs, and educational resources for communities and stakeholders
  • Build and maintain relationships with local communities, partner organizations, and economic development stakeholders
  • Represent WEDC at conferences, meetings, and public events that support downtown and community development efforts

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