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Economic Development Manager Jobs in Tucson, AZ (NOW HIRING)

Lead Economist, EBRC

Tucson, AZ · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

... economic research projects. The position will independently lead and manage funded projects ... The position offers autonomy in project development and the opportunity for professional impact ...

Funded Project Development and Acquisition * In collaboration with the EBRC Director, actively ... Economic Research and Analysis * Lead and execute funded economic research projects using regional ...

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

... Economic Development, and other departments informed of status of activities by attending meetings and submitting reports. • Stay abreast of new technologies and principles by conducting research ...

Analyst

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$112K/yr

Each Cornerstone Research office has a Staffing & Development Manager, a dedicated professional who ... Developing financial and economic models; * Analyzing large datasets; * Examining market and ...

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Economic Development Manager information

See Tucson, AZ salary details

$29.9K

$99.4K

$149.5K

How much do economic development manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development manager in Tucson, AZ is $99,360.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,600.00 and $120,100.00 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 Tucson, AZ?

The most popular types of Economic Development jobs in Tucson, AZ are:

What are popular job titles related to Economic Development Manager jobs in Tucson, AZ?

For Economic Development Manager jobs in Tucson, AZ, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Tucson, AZ are hiring for Economic Development Manager jobs?

Cities near Tucson, AZ with the most Economic Development Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Economic Development Manager job openings in Tucson, AZ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,360 per year, or $47.8 per hour.

Director of Market Development | Tucson, AZ

Beale Infrastructure

Tucson, AZ

$170K - $210K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Location: Tuscon, Arizona

Reports to: SVP Policy & Public Affairs

Our Company: Beale Infrastructure develops digital infrastructure for the world's leading technology companies, partnering closely with customers, communities and utilities to enable innovative data center solutions with sustainable long-term impact.

The Role

The Director of Market Development will be responsible for developing and executing comprehensive engagement strategies for critical stakeholders to drive go-to-market strategy and positive public engagement for new data center projects. Enhance & protect Beale's license to operate in market and support seamless end to end delivery through grassroots and grasstops coalition building. Manage third party economic development incentive advisors to achieve client goals. This role requires a strategic thinker with a deep understanding of public policy, media relations, and community engagement within the technology and infrastructure sectors.

Responsibilities
  • Collaborate with Beale's development team to lay the groundwork for successful approval of data center sites and suitable conditions for data center operations over the long term.
  • Develop and implement strategic market development roadmaps plans to support business objectives and enhance project success.
  • Foster strong Beale-community relationships at both local and state levels
  • Develop strategic roadmaps and communications plans for projects
  • Maintain license to operate in region and across the portfolio through strategic advisory both internally and externally.
  • Support Public Relations and Communications teams on media relations, including proactive outreach, responding to inquiries, and developing press materials.
  • Cultivate and maintain relationships with government officials, industry associations, and community leaders.
  • Develop talking points and communications plans for Beale through public approvals including developing comprehensive presentations for local and state governments.
  • Prepare and deliver compelling presentations, speeches, and other communications to internal and external audiences.
  • Collaborate with internal teams (PR, Development, Policy) to ensure consistent messaging and alignment on key initiatives.
  • Identify and manage speaking opportunities and executive thought leadership platforms.
  • Develop and manage the community investments budget for their respective region.
Qualifications
  • 10+ years of experience in public affairs, corporate communications, government relations or economic development, with a significant portion in the technology, infrastructure, or real estate development sectors.
  • Demonstrated success in developing and executing strategic communications plans.
  • Knowledge of state and local economic development incentives and their applicability to data centers.
  • Deep understanding of public policy processes and regulatory environments impacting data centers.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to simplify complex technical information for diverse audiences.
  • Proven ability to build and maintain relationships with public and private sector stakeholders.
  • Experience in crisis communications and issues management.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience building and leading workforce development programs or other industry partnerships with public sector or NGO partners
  • Understanding of Hyperscale data center companies or digital infrastructure
  • Familiarity with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles in the context of infrastructure development
  • Experience managing external agencies and consultants

It is expected that the base annual salary range for this position will be $170,000 - $210,000. Pursuant to any applicable law or regulation, the anticipated salary range may include a performance-based discretionary annual bonus. Factors that may affect a candidate's starting pay within this range include geography, skills, experience and other qualifications for the role. This full-time position is eligible for generous benefits, including health, dental, and 401 (k). 

Beale Infrastructure Group is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, protected veteran status, and other statuses protected by law.