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Economic Development Project Manager Jobs in Illinois

Economic Vitality Administrator

Oak Park, IL · On-site

$17.75 - $24.50/hr

Develops policy and programs, initiates services, and manages special projects to advance Village ... Participate in the development and administration of the Economic Vitality Division budget; approve ...

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Showing results 1-20

Economic Development Project Manager information

See Illinois salary details

$41.7K

$91.6K

$137.6K

How much do economic development project manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development project manager in Illinois is $91,612.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,100.00 and $105,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Economic Development Project Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Economic Development Project Manager, you need a solid background in economic analysis, project management, and urban planning, typically supported by a relevant degree such as economics, public administration, or business. Familiarity with project management software (like Microsoft Project), GIS tools, and economic impact modeling systems is often required. Strong communication, stakeholder engagement, and negotiation skills help you build consensus and manage diverse interests effectively. These abilities are crucial for successfully guiding projects that foster community growth and economic vitality.

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

AspectEconomic Development Project ManagerUrban Planner
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in economics, urban planning, or related field; certifications like CEcD are commonBachelor's or master's in urban planning, geography, or related field; often requires AICP certification
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, economic development organizations, consulting firmsMunicipalities, government agencies, private planning firms
Employer & Industry UsageFocuses on economic growth, business attraction, and project implementationFocuses on land use, zoning, community development, and land planning

The main difference is that Economic Development Project Managers concentrate on fostering economic growth and managing development projects to attract businesses, while Urban Planners focus on land use, zoning, and community development. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and often work within government or consulting sectors, but their core responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

What does an Economic Development Project Manager do?

An Economic Development Project Manager is responsible for planning, coordinating, and overseeing projects that aim to improve the economic well-being of a community or region. They work with government agencies, businesses, and community organizations to attract investments, create jobs, and support business growth. Their tasks may include conducting research, preparing grant applications, managing budgets, and evaluating project outcomes. They play a key role in fostering sustainable economic growth and enhancing the quality of life for residents.

What are some common challenges faced by Economic Development Project Managers when coordinating with multiple stakeholders?

Economic Development Project Managers often encounter the challenge of balancing the diverse interests and priorities of various stakeholders, such as local government officials, business leaders, community members, and funding agencies. Effective communication and negotiation skills are essential to align goals, address concerns, and keep projects on track. Additionally, managing timelines and adapting to policy or regulatory changes can require flexibility and proactive problem-solving. Building strong relationships and fostering trust among partners is key to overcoming these challenges and achieving successful project outcomes.
What are popular job titles related to Economic Development Project Manager jobs in Illinois? For Economic Development Project Manager jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Economic Development Project Manager jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Economic Development Project Manager jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Economic Development Project Manager jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Economic Development Project Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Economic Development Project Manager job openings in Illinois as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,612 per year, or $44 per hour.
Senior Project Manager, Data Centers, Project & Development Services

Senior Project Manager, Data Centers, Project & Development Services

Cushman & Wakefield

Chicago, IL

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 16 days ago


Cushman & Wakefield rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 153 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

76th of 160 rated real estate companies


Job description

Job Title

Senior Project Manager, Data Centers, Project & Development Services

Job Description Summary

We are seeking an exceptional leader to head our dynamic and innovative expansion into Mission Critical Facilities and Data Centers, under our Life & Technology Sciences Platform. This pivotal role involves managing complex leading all business development activities for commercial real estate projects, delivering tailored solutions that exceed client expectations. The ideal candidate will serve as the main point of contact for clients, ensuring all aspects of the project engagements are handled with the highest level of professionalism and efficiency.
The role demands a unique blend of expertise across diverse fields, along with exceptional project management and interpersonal skills. The leader will act as a crucial liaison, coordinating between the company's various departments, third-party partners, and clients, to ensure a seamless integration of services. This position is not just about business development or managing projects but also about fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation, working closely with the Project & Development Services leadership team to champion cross-business initiatives that benefit our clients, colleagues, and broader community interests.
Our ideal candidate will embody professionalism and integrity, bringing forward-thinking strategies to the table. They will play a key role in upholding the values and standards of Cushman & Wakefield, driving the company towards achieving win-win solutions in all engagements.
This role is an extraordinary opportunity for a visionary leader to influence and shape the future of our diverse and rapidly evolving sectors. If you are passionate about leading cutting-edge projects and making a significant impact in the industry, we encourage you to apply for this exciting position.

Job Description

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Business Development: Be accountable and responsible for spearheading our BD efforts in engaging in new sectors and working with local markets toestablishwins and employee engagement/recruitment.

Leadership in Diverse Fields:Spearhead initiatives acrossArtificial Intelligence, IoT,Mission Critical,Data Center, and other advanced technologies solutions.

Project Management:Lead multi-disciplinedAdvancedTechnologies Commercial Real Estate projects, offering tailored solutions to clients.

Client Representation:Act as the primary representative for clients on all aspects of assigned engagements, ensuring exceptional service delivery.

Liaison Role:Bridge communication and workflow between the company's departments, third-party partners, and clients for seamless service integration.

Project Delivery:Overseeand beaccountable for the successful completion and delivery of projects, meeting clientexpectationsand requirements.

Cross-Business Collaboration:Work in tandem with the Project & Development Services leadership team to foster cross-business collaboration, focusing on the best interests of clients, colleagues, and external stakeholders.

Professionalism and Integrity:Upholdhigh standardsof professionalism and integrity, aiming for win-win solutions while considering the interests of Cushman & Wakefield, stakeholders, and the broader community.

METRICS

  • Ability to lead the sourcing, pitching, and securing of new business and projects.

  • Extensive experience in leading projectswithin,Mission Critical,and Advanced Technologies Sectors.

  • Proventrack recordin managing complex commercial Real Estate projects.

  • Strong leadership skills with the ability to act as a liaison across various departments and external partners.

  • Excellent communication, organizational, and project management skills.

  • Commitment to professionalism, ethical standards, and innovative problem-solving

  • Demonstratessubject matter expertise in the development andcompletionaforementionedproject types.

  • Actsas the trusted business advisor and strategic partner by the clients both internally and externally.

BACKGROUND AND EXPERIENCE

  • Bachelor's degree in a Science or Mechanical and/or Electrical engineering disciplines. Advanced degrees are desirable.

  • 5to10+ years of Design and Construction industry experience in theaforementioned fields.

  • 7+ years of Commercial Real Estate Project Management experience with related experience in product development, launch, business process optimization, regulatory submission and/or regulatory compliance, and/or quality assurance.

  • Proventrack recordwith deliveringcomplexcommercial Real Estateand Design/Constructionprojects.Projects include Ground Up and Build-To-Suit projects, re-positioning projects, renovations and repurposing projects, and other complex development projects.

  • Experience with providing advanced projectscontrolssolutions, including P3/Primavera and Cost and Budget Estimating solutions.

  • Expertisewith municipalities,economic development authorities,utility companies, and familiarity with zoning andentitlementsprocesses, and dealings with complex land use issues.

  • PMP and LEED Certificates preferred.

  • Knowledge and application of a disciplined Project Management process (Six Sigma desirable).

  • Demonstrated experience managing projects varying in size including strategic planning, demolition, newConstructionand interior fit out, and/or Project controls solutions.

COMPETENCIES

  • Extraordinary acumen forBusiness Developmentand Revenue Generation

  • Complex Problem Solving, Functional and Business Strategy

  • Develops new and unique ways to improve operations and processes that bring value

  • Positively influences others to achieve results

  • Leadership/ Managerial Courage

  • Exceptional interpersonal and leadership skills to effectively communicate and build relationships with a broad spectrum of audiences at all organizational levels

  • Understands ethical behavior and business practices.

  • Works cooperatively and effectively within matrix reporting environment

  • Communicates effectively andtimelyusingappropriateand effective communications tools and techniques

  • Operates across multiple service lines and/or regions

  • Financial Accountability


Cushman & Wakefield also provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health, vision, and dental insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life, and disability insurance programs, and paid and unpaid time away from work. In addition to a comprehensive benefits package, Cushman and Wakefield provide eligible employees with competitive pay, which may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, total hours worked, job type, business line, and applicability of collective bargaining agreements.
The compensation that will be offered to the successful candidate will depend on factors such as whether the position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement, the geographic area in which the work will be performed, market pay rates in that area, and the candidate's experience and qualifications.
The company will not pay less than minimum wage for this role.
The compensation for the position is: $ 140,250.00 - $165,000.00Cushman & Wakefield is an Equal Opportunity employer to all protected groups, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. Discrimination of any type will not be tolerated.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position at Cushman & Wakefield, please call the ADA line at 1-888-365-5406 or emailAccommodations@cushwake.com. Please refer to the job title and job location when you contact us.

INCO: "Cushman & Wakefield"

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