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Economic Development Manager Jobs in DeForest, WI

Wisconsin

Dairy Economist

Madison, WI · On-site

... management, or international trade. * Experience conducting original applied research or analysis on dairy markets and businesses in the dairy value chain, including the development of academic ...

Varsity Tutors

Agricultural Science Tutor

Madison, WI · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... science, agricultural economics, sustainable farming practices, pest management, genetic ... rural economic development. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction: Familiar with ...

Public Consulting Group

Operations Manager

Madison, WI · On-site

Our Human Services team helps state and municipal human services and economic development agencies ... Project and Grants Management * Assessments and Feasibility Studies * Develop and implement ...

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All JobsEconomic Development JobsEconomic Development Manager JobsEconomic Development Manager Jobs in DeForest, WI

Economic Development Manager information

See DeForest, WI salary details

$31.2K

$103.7K

$156K

How much do economic development manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development manager in DeForest, WI is $103,684.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,000.00 and $125,300.00 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 cities near DeForest, WI are hiring for Economic Development Manager jobs?

Cities near DeForest, WI with the most Economic Development Manager job openings:

Economic Development Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Economic Development Manager job openings in DeForest, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,684 per year, or $49.8 per hour.

Regional Economic Development Director

Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation

Madison, WI • Remote

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Regional Economic Development Director
Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC)
Location: Remote (Wisconsin-based)
Reports To: Senior Economic Development Director

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 Regional Economic Development Director serves as the primary WEDC representative for communities and businesses within an assigned region of Wisconsin. This role helps drive economic growth by connecting organizations with resources, providing strategic guidance, managing development projects, and building strong partnerships with local, regional, and statewide stakeholders.

The assigned territory includes Eau Claire, Chippewa, Dunn, Barron, Polk, St. Croix, and Pierce counties.

In this role, you will:

  • Serve as a trusted advisor to businesses, communities, and economic development partners within the assigned region
  • Identify and support business and community development opportunities through strategic consultation and resource deployment
  • Manage a portfolio of regional accounts and build strong relationships with local stakeholders and partner organizations
  • Review projects and provide recommendations related to economic and community development investments
  • Assist businesses and communities with financing strategies, program implementation, and access to available resources
  • Monitor project performance and support ongoing compliance and reporting activities
  • Collaborate with internal teams and external partners to advance regional economic development goals
  • Represent WEDC at meetings, conferences, public events, and speaking engagements throughout the region

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