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Economic Development Project Manager Jobs in Minnesota

R&D Project Manager

New Hope, MN ยท On-site

$85K - $125K/yr

A medical device client in New Hope, Minnesota is seeking a Research & Development (R&D) Project Manager to lead complex, customer-facing development projects. This individual will serve as the ...

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Showing results 1-20

Economic Development Project Manager information

See Minnesota salary details

$42.1K

$92.6K

$139.1K

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

As of Jun 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development project manager in Minnesota is $92,594.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,900.00 and $106,300.00 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 Minnesota? For Economic Development Project Manager jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Economic Development Project Manager jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Economic Development Project Manager jobs in Minnesota are:
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Economic Development Project Manager jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Economic Development Project Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Economic Development Project Manager job openings in Minnesota as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 91% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,594 per year, or $44.5 per hour.

Sr. Development Project Manager

Sundial Energy

Saint Paul, MN โ€ข On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Position Description


Sundial Energy is seeking a high-agency Sr. Development Project Manager to lead community-scale solar and energy storage project development from site control through construction notice to proceed. The ideal candidate will be adaptable and have a positive attitude, bias for action and ownership mindset.

The Sr. Development Project Manager role drives successful outcomes across interconnection, permitting, real estate and all AHJ approvals to the point of construction notice to proceed. The position will be in-office in the St. Paul, Minnesota area and will report to Sundialโ€™s Co-CEO.


Sundial Energy


Founded in 1999, Sundial Energy is one of the longest standing solar and energy storage developers based in Minnesota. Sundial specializes in developing community-scale solar and energy storage projects that enhance grid reliability and power the communities of the future. We have a growing national footprint and are seeking talented individuals hungry to solve challenges on the leading edge of renewable development.


www.sundialsolarenergy.com


Responsibilities


  • Plan and execute all activities for community solar and energy storage project developments including, but not limited to interconnection, permitting, real estate and environmental diligence, stakeholder engagement and engineering
  • Create and refine development strategies across new and existing states, utilities and technology types
  • Drive and own development projects, identifying and resolving critical path items with minimal oversight to achieve portfolio milestones and deliver projects successfully
  • Provide real-time portfolio assessments and make risk-based decisions to ensure a capital efficient development process
  • Manage portfolio reporting independently, timely and accurately
  • Build and maintain project cost structures and forecasts for each of Sundialโ€™s markets across development and construction
  • Proactively identify opportunities and threats stemming from regulatory, legislative, and competitive dynamics in the regions in which Sundial is developing projects
  • Build strong relationships with vendors, local municipalities, utilities, landowners, and other stakeholders to drive successful development outcomes
  • Occasional travel for site visits, representation at permitting and utility meetings, and other project and/or industry related eventsย 
  • Other duties as requested and/or determined


Qualifications


  • 5+ years of experience in solar, energy storage or infrastructure development
  • Proven track record of advancing projects to construction notice to proceed, preferably in community or utility scale solar and/or energy storage across MISO, NYISO and PJM markets
  • Demonstrated success managing cross-functional teams
  • Independent and resourceful leader that is proficient in overseeing several complex projects concurrently and accomplishing priorities
  • Excellent communication and negotiation skills
  • Proficient with development tools (GIS, PM software, etc.) and Microsoft Office; AI familiarity a plus
  • Bachelorโ€™s Degree or higher in commercial real estate, engineering, finance, economics, or similar fields
  • Up to 25% travel may be required


Core Values:

  • We are enthusiastic, humble and persevere through challenges.
  • We critically think to solve problems independently and create scalable solutions.
  • We own our tasks and approach objectives with urgency and a hunger to move forward that ensures tasks are accurate & fully complete.
  • We act with honestly and integrity in all situations to build respect and trust with our partners and stakeholders



Benefits

  • Competitive salary plus performance-based bonus
  • Health, dental and vision insurance
  • 401k with company matching
  • Flexible paid time off