1

Economic Development Planning Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Economic Development Manager

Cedar Rapids, IA · Hybrid

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This position is responsible for economic development strategy, planning, and implementation for the organization. This role ensures that Alliant Energy maximizes the value of its business, community ...

Economic Development Manager

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This position is responsible for economic development strategy, planning, and implementation for the organization. This role ensures that Alliant Energy maximizes the value of its business, community ...

Economic Development Manager

Des Moines, IA · Hybrid

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This position is responsible for economic development strategy, planning, and implementation for the organization. This role ensures that Alliant Energy maximizes the value of its business, community ...

Economic Development Manager

Perris, CA · On-site

$70.72 - $94.78/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • PTO

Economic Development Opening Date: 08/06/2026 Closing Date: 8/20/2026 11:59 PM Pacific DEFINITION ... Oversee staff and administrative work in the planning, analysis, and implementation of specific ...

Economic Development Director

Victoria, TX · On-site

$110K - $134K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Municipal planning and development processes Skill in: * Strong knowledge of economic development tools, incentives, and financing mechanisms. * Understanding of real estate development underwriting ...

Economic Development Manager

Perris, CA · On-site

$70.72 - $94.78/hr

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 ...

Research and Strategic Planning Support Provides analytical support for economic development plans, redevelopment strategies, target industry initiatives, workforce development efforts, and ...

... planning activities. Compensation for this role is an annual salary between $65,570.00 - $77,384.00 ... The Economic Development Analyst provides professional-level municipal work related to the research ...

... planning activities. Compensation for this role is an annual salary between $65,570.00 - $77,384.00 ... The Economic Development Analyst provides professional-level municipal work related to the research ...

Showing results 21-40

Economic Development Planning information

See salary details

$31K

$103K

$155K

How much do economic development planning jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development planning in the United States is $103,020.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,500.00 and $124,500.00 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 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 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 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.

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 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.

What cities are hiring for Economic Development Planning jobs?

Cities with the most Economic Development Planning job openings:

What states have the most Economic Development Planning jobs?

States with the most job openings for Economic Development Planning jobs include:

Infographic showing various Economic Development Planning job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,020 per year, or $49.5 per hour.

Economic Development Analyst

City of Missouri City

Missouri City, TX

$67K - $84K/yr

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

Definition The City of Missouri City, known as the "Show Me City," is seeking an Economic Development Analyst. The Economic Development Analyst performs advanced professional, analytical, and project management work in support of the City's economic development initiatives, redevelopment efforts, business retention and expansion programs, real estate development activities, strategic planning efforts, and special projects. This position serves as an analyst for economic development projects and provides research, financial analysis, market intelligence, incentive evaluation, development feasibility assessments, and project coordination support to facilitate business investment, job creation, tax base growth, and the implementation of the City's strategic economic development objectives.

The Economic Development Analyst exercises sound judgment in evaluating complex economic, demographic, financial, and development data and provides recommendations to departmental leadership, City management, elected officials, developers, brokers, site selectors, business leaders, and community stakeholders. The successful candidate will possess strong analytical, communication, and project management skills and will thrive in a collaborative, fast-paced environment dedicated to advancing the City's economic growth and development goals. Reporting Relationship: Economic Development Director.

Examples of Work Conducts economic, demographic, fiscal, market, and statistical analyses to support economic development initiatives and strategic decision-making. Researches and evaluates economic trends, target industries, labor market conditions, development opportunities, and competitive market data. Prepares economic impact, fiscal impact, cost-benefit, return-on-investment, and revenue analyses for proposed developments, redevelopment projects, and incentive agreements.

Assists in the implementation and periodic update of the City's economic development strategy, redevelopment plans, and target industry initiatives. Monitors key economic indicators and maintain data systems, performance metrics, and market intelligence resources. Coordinates and supports economic development projects, including business recruitment, retention, expansion, and redevelopment initiatives.

Conducts research and feasibility analyses related to commercial, industrial, mixed-use, and redevelopment opportunities. Assists in evaluating development proposals, incentive requests, and public-private partnership opportunities. Prepares technical reports, presentations, dashboards, briefing materials, correspondence, and agenda items for City Council, boards and commissions, executive leadership, and other stakeholders.

Presents analytical findings and recommendations to internal and external audiences. Responds to requests for information from businesses, developers, site selectors, elected officials, media representatives, and the public. Builds and maintains collaborative relationships with businesses, developers, regional partners, governmental agencies, and community organizations.

Coordinates special projects and perform other related duties as assigned. Education, Experience, or Certification Required: Master's degree in Public Administration, Economics, Urban Planning, Real Estate Development, Geography, Business Administration, Finance, or a closely related field. The ideal candidate possesses one or more of the following qualifications: Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) and/or American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP).

Experience leading or supporting economic development initiatives within a municipal or county government. Demonstrates experience with commercial, industrial, or mixed-use real estate development and redevelopment projects. Proficiency in preparing and interpreting economic impact, fiscal impact, cost-benefit, and financial feasibility analyses to support strategic decision-making.

Experience negotiating, administering, and monitoring economic development incentive programs and performance agreements. Knowledge of Geographic Information Systems (GIS), data visualization tools, and advanced financial modeling techniques to support economic analysis and reporting. Supplemental Information The Department of Human Resources & Organizational Development may consider an equivalent combination of education, training, and/or experience.Works as an essential employee before, during, and after emergencies or disasters, whether natural or man-made

Subject to emergency operations recall and other assignments necessary to maintain continuity of City services. Department of Human Resources & Organizational Development Missouri City, TX 77489 (281) 403-8500 humanresources@missouricitytx.gov http://missouricitytx.gov An Equal Opportunity Employer