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Economic Development Planning Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Development concepts, well scheduling, resource planning, and economic evaluations. * Operations: Facility requirements, operational constraints, maintainability, and system performance. * Land ...

City Manager

Gun Barrel City, TX ยท On-site

$90 - $150/hr

Key priorities include supporting economic development, planning for future infrastructure needs, maintaining the City's strong financial position, enhancing organizational performance, and ...

Showing results 41-60

Economic Development Planning information

See Texas salary details

$28.9K

$96K

$144.4K

How much do economic development planning jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development planning in Texas is $95,979.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,900.00 and $116,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is economic development planning?

Economic development planning is the process by which government agencies, organizations, and communities strategize to improve the economic well-being and quality of life for a region. This involves analyzing current economic conditions, setting goals, and implementing policies or programs to encourage business growth, job creation, and sustainable development. Economic development planners often collaborate with public and private stakeholders to attract investment, support local businesses, and enhance infrastructure. Their work aims to create vibrant, resilient economies that benefit all members of the community.

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

To thrive as an Economic Development Planner, you need a strong background in urban planning, economics, and data analysis, usually backed by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with GIS software, economic modeling tools, and government grant systems is typically required. Excellent communication, stakeholder engagement, and project management skills help build consensus and drive community initiatives. These competencies are vital for creating effective strategies that foster sustainable economic growth and community development.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in economic development planning, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Economic Development Planning often encounter challenges such as balancing competing stakeholder interests, adapting to shifting economic trends, and securing funding for projects. Navigating these issues requires strong communication skills, flexibility, and a strategic mindset. Building collaborative relationships with local governments, businesses, and community groups is key, as well as staying updated on policy changes and best practices. Leveraging data-driven analysis and pursuing continuous professional development can also help address these challenges effectively.

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

AspectEconomic Development PlanningUrban Planning
Primary FocusPromoting economic growth, business development, and job creationDesigning and managing land use, infrastructure, and community development
Required CredentialsBachelor's or master's in economics, urban planning, or related fields; certifications in economic developmentBachelor's or master's in urban planning, geography, or related fields; planning certifications
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, economic development organizations, consulting firmsMunicipal governments, urban planning agencies, private firms

While both roles involve planning and development, Economic Development Planning primarily focuses on fostering economic growth and attracting businesses, whereas Urban Planning concentrates on land use, infrastructure, and community design. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and employer expectations in the development sector.

Is economic development a good career?

Economic development planning is a viable career that involves analyzing economic data, developing strategies to improve local economies, and collaborating with government and community stakeholders. It often requires strong analytical skills, knowledge of public policy, and proficiency with planning tools. The field offers opportunities for impact and growth, with roles in government agencies, non-profits, and consulting firms.

What degree do you need to work in economic development planning?

A bachelor's degree in economics, urban planning, public administration, or a related field is typically required for economic development planning roles. Advanced positions may prefer or require a master's degree, along with skills in data analysis, project management, and community engagement.
Infographic showing various Economic Development Planning job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,979 per year, or $46.1 per hour.

Airport Properties & Development Manager

City of Midland, TX

Midland, TX โ€ข On-site

$90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Salary : $90,088.00 Annually
Location : Midland International Airport, Midland, TX, TX
Job Type: Full-time
Department: Airport
Division: Airport Operations
Opening Date: 07/13/2026
Scope of Work
Manages airport property, lease administration, development initiatives, procurement coordination, and strategic planning activities for Midland International Air & Space Port and Midland Airpark. Coordinates airport development projects, contract administration, Requests for Qualifications (RFQs), Requests for Proposals (RFPs), consultant selection processes, and long-range property development activities in compliance with applicable local, state, and federal regulations.
Supports the City of Midland's strategic goals by maximizing airport assets, advancing sustainable economic development, ensuring regulatory compliance, and facilitating long-term airport planning and infrastructure growth.
BUDGETARY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Assists with the preparation and administration of airport development, planning, and property-related budgets. Monitors consultant contracts, lease agreements, and development-related expenditures.
Essential Job Duties
  • Administers airport leases, land use agreements, permits, and tenant contracts.
  • Coordinates lease negotiations, amendments, renewals, assignments, and compliance monitoring.
  • Maintains airport property records, easements, maps, and lease documentation.
  • Coordinates Requests for Qualifications (RFQs), Requests for Proposals (RFPs), consultant procurements, and contract administration activities.
  • Assists with the planning, development, and implementation of airport property development initiatives.
  • Coordinates with developers, tenants, consultants, engineers, architects, contractors, and economic development organizations regarding airport development projects.
  • Assists with the planning and disposition strategy associated with airport-owned property.
  • Supports Airport Master Plan implementation and airport capital development initiatives.
  • Coordinates with the Federal Aviation Administration regarding airport property use, land releases, development compliance, and grant assurance requirements.
  • Reviews proposed airport development projects for consistency with airport planning documents, FAA requirements, and airport operational needs.
  • Conducts research and analysis related to airport property development opportunities and strategic planning initiatives.
  • Prepares reports, agenda items, presentations, lease documents, and recommendations for Airport Board, City Council, City Management, and other stakeholders.โ€ข Coordinates with City departments, legal counsel, consultants, and outside agencies regarding airport property and development matters.
  • Monitors consultant and contractor performance to ensure compliance with contractual obligations and project requirements.
  • Responds to questions and inquiries from airport tenants, developers, consultants, governmental agencies, and the public regarding airport property and development matters.
  • Performs related duties as required.
PHYSICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS:
Ability to sit, stand, and move around airport properties for extended periods of time. Ability to drive a vehicle to inspect airport properties and development sites. Employee will be exposed to seasonal temperatures while conducting inspections and visiting airport properties, construction sites, and development areas. Work may involve exposure to loud noises, construction activity, aviation operations, and airfield environments.
REQUIRED CONTACTS:
Employee works with citizens, airport tenants, developers, consultants, contractors, management, elected officials, attorneys, engineers, governmental agencies, and other employees when providing or requesting information regarding airport property, development activities, contracts, planning initiatives, and airport operations. Interacts with City departments and outside agencies when coordinating projects, procurement activities, and development initiatives.
Physical and Environmental Conditions
Knowledge of airport property management, contract administration, public procurement processes, airport planning principles, and commercial development practices. Ability to read and understand technical documents, development plans, contracts, leases, engineering reports, and FAA guidance materials. Ability to prepare professional reports, presentations, and recommendations. Ability to coordinate multiple projects and maintain effective working relationships with tenants, consultants, developers, governmental agencies, and City staff. Skilled in the operation of personal computers and related software.
Minimum Education, Experience and Certification
Bachelor's degree in Aviation Management, Business Administration, Public Administration, Real Estate, Urban Planning, Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field plusfive to seven years of progressively responsible experience in airport management, commercial real estate, economic development, contract administration, airport planning, property management, or development coordination. Must possess a valid Texas Driver's License. Preferred qualifications include experience with FAA grant assurances, airport leasing, airport planning, public procurement, RFQs/RFPs, and commercial development projects.
2:1 Retirement Plan with TMRS
Educational Tuition Assistance Program
Public Service Loan Forgiveness Employer
Midland Municipal Employee Credit Union
Competitive pay
Medical/Dental/Vision Plan
PTO accrual
Paid holidays