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Economic Development Planner Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Economic Development Manager

Modesto, CA · On-site

$134K - $171K/yr

Engage the private sector and other public agencies in the implementation of economic development activities by forming partnerships, supporting strategic planning, and developing and implementing ...

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Economic Development Planner information

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$34.5K

$65.7K

$95.5K

How much do economic development planner jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development planner in the United States is $65,702.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,000.00 and $74,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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, and why are they important?

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.
More about Economic Development Planner jobs
What states have the most Economic Development Planner jobs? States with the most job openings for Economic Development Planner jobs include:
Infographic showing various Economic Development Planner job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 56% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 22% Temporary, and 11% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,702 per year, or $31.6 per hour.

Economic Development Director

Person County Government

Roxboro, NC • On-site

$99K - $154K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

"Everything is Better in Person" Summary Objective Person County Government is seeking an experienced, visionary, and results-oriented professional to serve as its next Economic Development Director. Please click HERE to review the recruitment brochure.   For the detailed job description, click HERE.

To learn more about Economic Development, click HERE. The starting salary will be determined with consideration given to both the candidate's educational background and relevant work experience. Must possess a valid driver's license and have an acceptable driving record per County policy.

This is an exempt position working 37.5 hours weekly/1950 hours annually. Essential Functions The essential functions listed below are those that represent the majority of the time spent working in this class. Management may assign additional functions related to the type of work of the class as necessary

Supervises, directs, and evaluates assigned staff, processing employee concerns and problems, directing work, counseling, disciplining, and completing employee performance appraisals. Coordinates, assigns, and reviews work and establishes work schedules; maintains standards; monitors status of work in progress; inspects completed work assignments; answers questions; gives advice and direction as needed. Serves as the primary point of contact for prospective industries and businesses exploring location or expansion opportunities; coordinates site visits, arranges meetings with local officials, researches available properties, and facilitates communication throughout construction or facility development.

Assesses labor supply and utility capacity and collaborates with partners to support a well-trained, available workforce. Develops and implements marketing materials to promote economic development in the County and the City, including brochures, flyers, booklets, advertisements, website updates, videos, and related outreach tools. Builds and maintains a network of contacts to identify potential industrial parks and sites; monitors development activity and collaborates with educational institutions, local governments, and other partner agencies.

Identifies, prepares, and manages grant opportunities to support infrastructure development. Researches, writes, and oversees grant applications and administration; assists with County Government grant efforts, as assigned by the County Manager. Maintains regular communication and positive working relationships with state economic development officials, community leaders, and representatives from businesses, agribusinesses and industries of all sizes.

Maintains up-to-date records and inventories of available sites and buildings and reports changes to state economic development staff. Tracks and organizes data related to labor wages, demographics, economic trends, utilities, retail activity, small business development, building permits, financial indicators, educational resources, and growth announcements. Prepares annual budget recommendations for the department and establishes yearly goals and performance objectives.

Serves as the chief staff officer to the County Economic Development Commission. Supports initiatives to strengthen the local economy, including agricultural development efforts, and assists with implementation of action items within the Farmland Preservation Plan. Coordinates activities and maintains partnerships with a broad range of local, regional, and state organizations, including the NC Department of Commerce, Research Triangle Reginal Partnership (RTRP), North Carolina Economic Development Association (NCEDA), Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina (EDPNC), and others.

Collaborates with the City of Roxboro to share information related to utilities as a recruitment asset and provides input to guide future utility planning and expansion. Keeps City and County leadership informed regarding prospects, projects, and activities involving potential businesses or industries. Attends meetings of local and regional economic development organizations and partner groups to support coordinated growth and development efforts.

Performs related work as assigned. Minimum Education and Experience Requirements Bachelor's Degree in Economic Development, Business Administration, Public Administration, Urban Planning or related discipline. Six (6) years of economic development or related experience or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.

Special Certifications and Licenses Must possess and maintain a valid state driver's license with an acceptable driving history. Prefer Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) or North Carolina Certified Economic Developer (NCCED). Person County conducts pre-employment screening on candidates.

Job offers are conditional pending the following: A pre-employment drug screen for all candidates. Positions designated by Person County as Safety Sensitive are also subject to random drug and alcohol testing. A background check for all candidates.

Some positions also require a credit check. Additional screening and testing required for some positions. Within 3 days of the start of your employment with the County, you must be able to provide proof of your eligibility to work in the US.

Person County Government is an Equal Opportunity/E-Verify Employer