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Economic Development Manager Jobs in Huntsville, AL

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Economic Development Manager information

See Huntsville, AL salary details

$29.6K

$98.2K

$147.8K

How much do economic development manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development manager in Huntsville, AL is $98,212.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,700.00 and $118,700.00 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.

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 Huntsville, AL?

The most popular types of Economic Development jobs in Huntsville, AL are:

What cities near Huntsville, AL are hiring for Economic Development Manager jobs?

Cities near Huntsville, AL with the most Economic Development Manager job openings:

Assistant Director of Workforce Development, Employer Relations & Community Engagement

Normal, AL • On-site

Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical University
Education • 11 - 50 employees

$53K - $71K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Salary: $53,325.00 - $71,100.00 Annually
Location : Normal
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 202300876
Department: The Office of Career and Workforce Development
Opening Date: 07/23/2026
Description
The Assistant Director of Workforce Development, Employer Relations & Community Engagement supports the design, implementation, and expansion of career-readiness, employer engagement, and workforce-pipeline initiatives that align with AAMU's mission of student success and regional economic development. This role focuses on corporate relationship development, industry cluster engagement, and expanding experiential learning opportunities for students.
Examples of Duties
Corporate & Industry Engagement
• Identify, cultivate, and manage relationships with corporate partners across targeted industry clusters (e.g., STEM, government, healthcare, business, manufacturing).
• Assist in developing new employer partnerships that result in internships, externships, co-op programs, and full-time employment pipelines.
• Maintain an active portfolio of employers and track engagement outcomes (recruitment, placements, partnerships).
• Pursue grant opportunities related to workforce development and employer engagement.
• Pursue grant writing opportunities.
Experiential Learning & Workforce Pipelines
• Support the development and expansion of work-based learning programs, including internships, co-ops, apprenticeships, and micro-internships.
• Coordinate employer-driven opportunities aligned with academic programs and workforce needs.
• Maintain databases of student placements and employer partnerships.
Community & Economic Development Engagement
• Collaborate with local, regional, and state workforce agencies, chambers of commerce, and community organizations.
• Represent the AAMU department at workforce development initiatives, career fairs, and industry events.
• Assist in aligning programs with state and regional labor market trends and workforce needs.
Student Career Readiness Support
• Support employer-led programming (panels, site visits, mock interviews).
• Provide career coaching and advising to students.
Program Support & Data Management
• Track and report data on internships, employment outcomes, and employer engagement.
• Assist with career fairs, recruitment events, and employer visits.
• Support grant initiatives and workforce development programming as assigned.
Typical Qualifications
• Master's degree required (Higher Education, Business, Workforce Development, or related field).
• 3-5 years of experience in career services, workforce development, employer relations, or community relations.
• Demonstrated ability to build partnerships with employers and community stakeholders.
• Strong communication, relationship-building, and organizational skills.
• Knowledge of career services platforms (e.g., Handshake, Symplicity).
Supplemental Information
• Experience with industry cluster strategies or sector-based workforce models.
• Familiarity with HBCU student populations and equity-centered workforce initiatives.
• Data-informed decision-making and program assessment experience.
We offer a complete benefits package to full-time employees including health care, dental, vision, retirement, deferred compensation plans, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, short and long-term disability, holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
To learn more details, visit our benefits page at
01
Do you have a master's degree required in Higher Education, Business, Workforce Development, or related field?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Do you have 3-5 years of experience in career services, workforce development, employer relations, or community relations?
  • Yes
  • No

03
Do you have demonstrated ability to build partnerships with employers and community stakeholders?
  • Yes
  • No

04
Do you have strong communication, relationship-building, and organizational skills?
  • Yes
  • No

05
Do you have knowledge of career services platforms (e.g., Handshake, Symplicity)?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question