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Economic Development Planner Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Manage economic development projects, programs, and initiatives on an ongoing basis, including real ... Oversee staff and administrative work in the planning, analysis, and implementation of specific ...

New

... economic development, policy, and planning. We help our clients identify who will benefit from economic development initiatives and show them how to design and execute more equitable projects ...

$66K - $90K/yr

Participates in planning, coordinating, implementing, and promoting assigned programs, projects, and initiatives; participates in the development and implementation of program goals, objectives ...

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Economic Development Planner information

See California salary details

$34K

$64.8K

$94.2K

How much do economic development planner jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development planner in California is $64,841.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,300.00 and $73,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What degree do you need to work in economic development?

Economic development planners typically hold a bachelor's degree in fields such as economics, urban planning, public administration, or related disciplines. Many positions prefer or require a master's degree, like a Master of Public Administration (MPA) or Master of Urban Planning, along with skills in data analysis and community engagement.

Is economic development a good career path?

Economic development planners analyze regional economic data, develop strategies to promote growth, and collaborate with government agencies and businesses. The role often requires strong analytical skills, knowledge of urban planning or economics, and proficiency with data tools. It can offer stable employment and opportunities to impact community growth, making it a viable career choice for those interested in public policy and economic strategy.

What types of projects do economic development planners typically work on, and how do they collaborate with other departments?

Economic Development Planners are often involved in projects such as revitalizing downtown areas, attracting new businesses, and developing workforce training initiatives. They regularly collaborate with departments like city planning, public works, and community development to ensure projects align with broader municipal goals. Coordinating with stakeholders—including local businesses, government officials, and community groups—is also a key part of the role. This collaborative environment allows Economic Development Planners to see the direct impact of their work and provides opportunities for professional growth through cross-departmental exposure.

What does an economic development planner do?

An Economic Development Planner is responsible for creating and implementing strategies to promote economic growth within a community or region. They analyze data, assess community needs, and work with government officials, businesses, and the public to attract investments, create jobs, and revitalize neighborhoods. Their work often involves preparing grant applications, conducting market studies, and ensuring that development projects comply with local regulations. Economic Development Planners play a key role in making communities more prosperous and sustainable.

What is the difference between Economic Development Planner vs Urban Planner?

AspectEconomic Development PlannerUrban Planner
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in economics, urban planning, or related field; often certifications in economic developmentBachelor's degree in urban planning, geography, or related field; licensure or certification may be preferred
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, economic development organizations, consulting firmsMunicipal governments, planning agencies, private consulting
Industry UsageFocuses on economic growth, business attraction, and community developmentFocuses on land use, zoning, and community design

While both roles involve planning and community development, Economic Development Planners primarily focus on economic growth strategies and attracting businesses, whereas Urban Planners concentrate on land use, zoning, and urban design. Both roles often collaborate but serve different core functions within community development projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an economic development planner?

To thrive as an Economic Development Planner, you need expertise in urban planning, economic analysis, and community development, typically supported by a degree in urban planning, economics, or a related field. Familiarity with GIS software, data analysis tools, and knowledge of relevant regulations and grant processes is essential. Strong communication, stakeholder engagement, and project management skills help you collaborate effectively and drive community initiatives. These competencies are vital for creating sustainable economic growth strategies and ensuring that development projects align with community needs.
What are popular job titles related to Economic Development Planner jobs in California? For Economic Development Planner jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Economic Development Planner jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Economic Development Planner jobs in California are:
Infographic showing various Economic Development Planner job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,841 per year, or $31.2 per hour.

Economic Development Director

Big-Valley-Rancheria

Lakeport, CA • On-site

$120 - $160/hr

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

POSITION SUMMARY:Under the general direction of the Tribal Administrator, the Economic Development Director plans, organizes, and implements economic development strategies and initiatives that support the Tribe’s long-term economic growth and sustainability. Responsibilities include business retention and expansion, business attraction, redevelopment planning, grant and partnership development, and coordination of community and infrastructure initiatives related to economic development.The Director performs a wide range of administrative, professional, technical, and project management duties while collaborating with Tribal departments, businesses, governmental agencies, and external partners to strengthen and diversify the Tribal economy. The position operates with a high degree of independent judgment while coordinating major initiatives and policy recommendations through the Tribal Administrator.ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following:The duties listed below are representative and not intended to be a comprehensive list. The incumbent may be required to perform additional duties as needed.Develop and implement the Tribe's Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy, ensuring alignment with the Tribe's strategic priorities, long-term sustainability goals, and community needs.Identify, evaluate, and develop new revenue-generating opportunities through Tribal enterprise development, strategic partnerships, commercial ventures, tourism, renewable energy, housing, infrastructure, land development, and other diversified economic initiatives.Provide strategic oversight and support for Tribal enterprises by evaluating operational and financial performance, identifying expansion opportunities, conducting feasibility analyses, and recommending improvements that strengthen long-term profitability and sustainability.Lead and manage economic development projects from concept through implementation, including redevelopment initiatives, infrastructure improvements, business attraction, development negotiations, and community development projects.Conduct feasibility studies, market analyses, financial modeling, and return-on-investment (ROI) analyses to evaluate proposed projects, investments, and development opportunities.Coordinate pre-development activities, including site selection, land use planning, environmental review, permitting, infrastructure planning, engineering coordination, and project due diligence.Develop and manage the department budget, establish annual work plans and performance objectives, and oversee departmental operations, administrative functions, documentation, and workflow processes.Supervise, mentor, and evaluate assigned staff, consultants, contractors, and project teams, fostering professional development, accountability, and high performance.Identify, pursue, secure, and administer grant funding from Tribal, federal, state, and private sources, including preparing grant applications, managing budgets, ensuring compliance, monitoring expenditures, and completing required reporting.Coordinate with Tribal departments, governmental agencies, funding organizations, private developers, financial institutions, and community partners to successfully implement economic development initiatives and leverage available resources.Analyze economic conditions, demographic trends, and market opportunities to support business attraction, business retention, workforce development, investment decisions, and long-term economic planning.Develop and maintain strategic partnerships with Tribal, local, regional, state, and federal agencies, educational institutions, private industry, investors, and community organizations to advance Tribal economic opportunities.Represent the Tribe in meetings, negotiations, conferences, and public forums, promoting investment opportunities and fostering positive relationships with prospective businesses, developers, investors, and strategic partners.Prepare reports, presentations, resolutions, business cases, and policy recommendations for the Tribal Administrator, Business Committee, Tribal Council, and other governing bodies regarding economic development initiatives and investment opportunities.Negotiate and coordinate development agreements, contracts, memoranda of understanding, leases, requests for proposals (RFPs), and other business agreements, subject to Tribal legal review and established approval processes.Conduct community outreach and stakeholder engagement activities to gather input, communicate project progress, build consensus, and promote transparency throughout economic development initiatives.Develop and implement departmental policies, procedures, and internal controls to ensure operational efficiency, fiscal accountability, regulatory compliance, and effective project management.Perform other related duties as assigned in support of the Tribe's economic development objectives.Perform other duties as assigned.Knowledge and SkillsPrinciples and practices of economic development, including business attraction, retention, and redevelopmentPublic administration and Tribal governance structuresStrategic planning, project management, and program evaluationMarket analysis, economic forecasting, and data interpretationContract negotiation and developmentApplicable federal, state, and Tribal laws, regulations, and policiesEconomic development financing tools and incentives (Tribal and general economic development tools preferred)AbilityLead and manage economic development programs and initiativesExercise sound judgment and decision-makingPrepare clear, concise reports and presentationsAnalyze complex issues and develop effective solutionsCommunicate effectively both orally and in writingBuild and maintain effective working relationships with diverse stakeholders #J-18808-Ljbffr