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Economic Development Project Manager Jobs in Texas

Economic Development Coordinator

Plano, TX ยท On-site

$26.47 - $33.09/hr

The City of Plano is seeking an Economic Development Coordinator to play a key role in supporting ... In this dynamic position, you'll work with a collaborative team on research projects, data analysis ...

Commercial Real Estate Development Project Manager Our SelectLeaders client is an active commercial real estate owner and developer seeking an experienced Development Project Manager to lead the ...

Development Project Manager

Dallas, TX ยท On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Commercial Real Estate Development Project Manager Our SelectLeaders client is an active commercial real estate owner and developer seeking an experienced Development Project Manager to lead the ...

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Economic Development Project Manager information

See Texas salary details

$40.1K

$88.1K

$132.3K

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

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development project manager in Texas is $88,079.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,300.00 and $101,100.00 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 Texas? For Economic Development Project Manager jobs in Texas, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Texas are hiring for Economic Development Project Manager jobs? Cities in Texas with the most Economic Development Project Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Economic Development Project Manager job openings in Texas as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 3% Temporary. Highlights an 87% In-person, and 13% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $88,079 per year, or $42.3 per hour.
Economic Development & Government Affairs Associate

Economic Development & Government Affairs Associate

Killam Development, LTD.

Laredo, TX โ€ข On-site

Other

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

Description

SUMMARY

The Economic Development & Government Affairs Associate is responsible for identifying, evaluating, and advancing real estate economic development tools and assets covered by these tools to leverage expertise in public-private partnerships, incentives, market intelligence, and strategic relationships. This role focuses on maximizing project feasibility, long-term value, and community alignment while supporting the company's growth and development objectives.



Requirements

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:ย 

  • Develops, assists, and helps with negotiating long-term strategies for deploying economic development tools to assist with development and construction growth plans
  • Lead business recruitment and development efforts for the company across different industry sectors.
  • Identify existing industries with expansion efforts and manage relationships with local businesses.
  • Research community impact on development efforts to ensure business goals are accomplished.
  • Support economic research to advance business growth.ย 
  • Negotiate business development grants, loans, and investment packages with local, state, or federal government.
  • Engage with stakeholders, including government officials, educators, and community leaders to align regional interests.
  • Build and maintain relationships with governmental, community, and business leaders to facilitate development projects.
  • Utilize economic data, GIS mapping, and market trends to identify prime locations and economic opportunities.
  • Oversee, direct, and monitor real estate and site development programs to ensure compliance with company goals.
  • Collaborate with internal departments on economic development projects.
  • Manage current and future Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone (TIRZ) agreements.ย 
  • Lead Municipal Management Districts (MMD) partnerships and Municipal Utility Districts (MUD) and any other special districts or economic development tools
  • Actively seek new business opportunities through networking and outreach.ย 
  • Participate in town hall meetings, City Council, Planning and Zoning, MPO, State and Federal meetings, non-profits, conferences, workshops and community development events to establish and build business networks.ย 
  • Work collaboratively with team members and across departments.
  • Other Duties as Assigned.


EDUCATION:

Bachelor's degree required, with master's degree (MBA, Economics, Public Policy) preferred. Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) preferred.ย 


EXPERIENCE:

Must have at least ten (10) years in economic development, corporate real estate, business finance, or related roles.


SKILLS:ย 

Must have the following skills and/or abilities:

  • Proficient in Windows operating systems and associated softwareย 
  • High level negotiation skills
  • Ability to lead, present to executives or public boards, and manage complex projects
  • Experience working with city, county, state, and federal agencies
  • Strong oral and written communication skills
  • Ability to work with community and governmental leaders effectivelyย 
  • Knowledge of trends, developments, and techniques in the field of economic development


LICENSES/CERTIFICATIONS:ย ย 

Must have a current driver's license and a satisfactory driving record.ย 


PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Must be able to perform the following physical activity on a frequent to constant basis:

  • Sit for long periods of time while gathering, updating, and validating vendor or supplier cost information or performing other related activities.
  • Lift 10-20 lbs. of files, plans, office supplies, or similar items.ย 
  • Constantly uses fingers and hands when dialing/answering the telephone and operating a computer or other office machinery, such as a copy machine, scanner, and computer printer.
  • Ability to hear average or normal conversations and receive ordinary information through verbal communications in person or detect objects in and around job site over the telephone.
  • Average, ordinary visual acuity necessary to prepare or inspect documents; operate a computer or other office machinery; or.
  • Walk short distances on slippery, even, and/or uneven surfaces.
  • Stand, bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, twist, turn, or crawl.


WORKING CONDITIONS:

  • Majority of work is performed in an office atmosphere located inside a building, with building inspections as needed.
  • May require infrequent job site visits involve performing work in outdoor weather conditions with exposure to extreme cold, heat, and noise depending upon project site.
  • Travel locally and between cities where development is in progress will be expected.


OTHER REQUIREMENTS:

Must be able to:

  • Adhere to the highest standards of ethics, integrity, professionalism, and discretion.
  • Project a courteous, professional and positive approach with clients, subcontractors, employees, and authorizing agencies while providing prompt, efficient, and accurate assistance.ย 
  • Follow and exchange basic instructions, information, and guidelines.
  • Direct and instructs Sub-Contractors effectively with a leadership style that is firm, fair, consistent, and goal oriented.
  • Nurture a working environment which encourages employee loyalty, longevity, and satisfaction.ย 
  • Creates a culture of customer satisfaction.
  • Make independent decisions based on experience or knowledge with minimal supervision.
  • Participate in training and development opportunities offered to maintain construction-related software and safety knowledge.
  • Communicate and comprehend instructions/directions in accordance with safety requirements, which necessitate no language barriers exist between employees and supervisors.
  • Adhere to and perform functions according to company and OSHA safety guidelines.
  • Wear personal protective equipment as required such as steel toed shoes, gloves, safety glasses, hearing protection, hard hat, vest, and the like while conducting job site visits.
  • Maintain regular, timely, and predictable attendance.