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Economic Development Manager Jobs in Hampton, VA

Project Manager

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$78K - $80K/yr

The Project Manager will plan and direct strategies to ensure family stability and thriving in the ... Foster partnerships to boost neighborhood economic development. * Develop and implement a ...

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Showing results 1-20

Economic Development Manager information

See Hampton, VA salary details

$30K

$99.6K

$149.8K

How much do economic development manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development manager in Hampton, VA is $99,563.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,800.00 and $120,300.00 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 are the most commonly searched types of Economic Development jobs in Hampton, VA?

The most popular types of Economic Development jobs in Hampton, VA are:

What job categories do people searching Economic Development Manager jobs in Hampton, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Economic Development Manager jobs in Hampton, VA are:

What cities near Hampton, VA are hiring for Economic Development Manager jobs?

Cities near Hampton, VA with the most Economic Development Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Economic Development Manager job openings in Hampton, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,563 per year, or $47.9 per hour.

Economic Development Specialist

Williamsburg, VA


JAMES CITY COUNTY
Public Administration • 1 - 5K employees

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

763rd of 851 rated public administrative organizations

People enjoy working here

Respectful managers


$64K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Economic Development Specialist

Apply now Job no: 40000434
Work type: Full Time
Location: Williamsburg
Categories: Professional

Job Summary

$64,066 - $100,292/ year, DOQ + Full-Time County Benefits 

The Economic Development Specialist performs professional, administrative, and programmatic work supporting James City County's economic development efforts with a focus on maintaining communications with the local business community, supporting business
retention, expansion, and attraction efforts, and assisting with business assistance programs. The position works closely with the Director and Assistant Director of Economic Development and serves as a point of contact for local business owners, commercial real estate professionals, regional and State economic development partners, and other County departments. This position also provides staff support to the Economic Development Authority, helping facilitate Board operations, planning and executing special projects and events.
Additional responsibilities include conducting research and data analysis to support economic development strategies, preparing presentations, reports, and promotional materials, and responding to inquiries from prospective and existing businesses.

Core Responsibilities
Business Retention and Support:
Supports business retention and expansion efforts through outreach and ongoing communication with existing businesses.
Maintains current business resource information on the County website and assists businesses in identifying available resources and technical assistance.
Serves as a liaison between businesses and County departments.
Identifies business needs and trends and assists with developing programs and resources responsive to the local business environment.
Maintains business information and databases.
Business Attraction and Research:
Supports business attraction efforts by responding to business needs and requests for information.
Conducts research and analyzes business, economic, and other relevant information to identify trends and support economic
development programs, initiatives, and strategies.
Prepares presentations, reports, findings, recommendations, and other materials.


Marketing and Community Engagement:
Prepares marketing materials, public information, reports, and other communications supporting economic development initiatives.
Supports website and digital content, including business information and economic development resources.
Supports social media and other communication efforts.
Communicates with businesses, regional and community partners, County staff, and other stakeholders.
Programs, Events and Partnerships:
Assists with planning, organizing, and implementing economic development programs and special events.
Supports business outreach, recognition, announcements, and other economic development activities.
Participates in meetings, events, and initiatives with economic development and community partners.
Collaborates with internal and external partners to support departmental programs and objectives.
Administrative and Operational Support:
Supports departmental operations by maintaining records, responding to business and public inquiries, coordinating information, and preparing meeting materials and documentation.
Organizes and manages multiple priorities and independently identifies and completes tasks within assigned areas of responsibility.
Supports departmental economic development strategies, programs, and initiatives.
Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in a related field and three years of relevant experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Knowledge of principles and practices related to economic development, redevelopment, public administration, and business operations.
Skill in conducting research and analyzing information.
Skill in organizing work and managing multiple priorities.
Other requirements.
Ability to identify and independently carry out tasks within assigned areas of responsibility.
Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing and prepare reports, presentations, and other materials.
Ability to collaborate effectively and work as part of a team.
Ability to provide excellent customer service and establish effective working relationships with businesses, community partners, the public, and employees.
Familiarity with social media platforms and web-based content.
Possess a valid Virginia driver's license and have an acceptable driving record based on James City County's criteria.
Skill in use of computer software, especially Microsoft Office Suite; and public relations, marketing, or promotions.

Click here for full job description. Accepting applications until position is filled. Cover letters and resumes may also be attached, but a fully completed application is required for your application to be considered.

James City County is dedicated to building a diverse workforce and is committed to providing reasonable accommodations. If you need assistance with completing the employment application, please contact the HR Department at 757-253-6680 or email HR.Recruit@jamescitycountyva.gov.

Advertised: 21 Aug 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close: 04 Sep 2026 Eastern Daylight Time

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