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Economic Development Project Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Data Center Economic Development Manager

$202K/yr

Economic development project lead for new data center site selection efforts as well as existing ... Financial analysis and project management experience * Experience negotiating, communicating and ...

City of Goodyear

Economic Development Director

Goodyear, AZ · On-site

$145.16K - $215.50K/yr

Advises City management, the Mayor, and City Council through briefings, presentations, and written ... Coordinates department activities and major projects with internal departments, external agencies ...

City of Anaheim, CA

Project Manager I/II

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$105.77K - $158.65K/yr

Economic Development Opening Date: 04/20/2026 Closing Date: Continuous Description Project Manager I: $87,014.00 - 130,520.00 Annually Project Manager II: $105,766.00 - 158,648.00 Annually The City ...

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$43K

$94.5K

$142K

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

As of Jun 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development project manager in the United States is $94,541.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,500.00 and $108,500.00 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 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 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 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.

More about Economic Development Project Manager jobs
What cities are hiring for Economic Development Project Manager jobs? Cities with the most Economic Development Project Manager job openings:
What states have the most Economic Development Project Manager jobs? States with the most job openings for Economic Development Project Manager jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Economic Development Project Manager jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Economic Development Project Manager jobs are:
Economic Development Project Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Economic Development Project Manager job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 28% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,541 per year, or $45.5 per hour.

Community & Economic Development/GIS Planner

FIVCO Area Development District

Grayson, KY • On-site

$45K - $55K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

The Community & Economic Development/GIS Planner, under the direction of the Director of Community and Economic Development, supports regional planning, community development, and economic development initiatives through GIS mapping, data analysis, research, project coordination, and technical assistance. This position assists with maintaining GIS systems and regional databases related to transportation, water/wastewater infrastructure, demographics, and emergency management to support planning and decision-making. Responsibilities include developing maps, reports, and visualizations; conducting research and surveys; assisting with grant writing and project development; and coordinating with local governments, utilities, community organizations, and regional partners. The position also supports infrastructure and community development projects aimed at improving economic growth, public services, and quality of life throughout the region, while assisting with special projects and other duties as assigned. 

GENERAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Develop, implement, maintain, and update GIS databases, applications, layers, datasets, metadata, and associated regional databases, including transportation, water/wastewater, emergency management, road centerline, addressing, demographic, and infrastructure data.
  • Collect, analyze, interpret, and integrate geographic, demographic, economic, and community data from various sources to support planning, infrastructure, and economic development initiatives.
  • Perform spatial analysis, create maps and visual aids, and produce reports, presentations, and other materials to support decision-making, project development, and public engagement efforts.
  • Conduct research, surveys, and analyses related to economic trends, community needs, infrastructure, demographics, and regional development opportunities.
  • Develop and update comprehensive plans, strategic plans, economic development strategies, and other planning documents.
  • Identify funding opportunities and prepare grant applications for community and economic development projects through programs such as the Economic Development Administration (EDA), Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC), Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), and other state and federal funding sources.
  • Administer and manage grant-funded projects, ensuring compliance with grant requirements, reporting standards, project timelines, budgets, and deliverables.
  • Coordinate and manage community and economic development projects from inception to completion in collaboration with local governments, utility providers, businesses, community organizations, and regional stakeholders.
  • Provide technical assistance, troubleshooting, training, and policy recommendations to staff, member agencies, local governments, community groups, and stakeholders.
  • Gather field data using Trimble or equivalent GPS equipment and ensure regional GIS databases remain accurate and current.
  • Build and maintain relationships with local government officials, chambers of commerce, economic development professionals, community organizations, regional entities, and other stakeholders to support regional collaboration and project development.
  • Serve as a liaison between communities, partner agencies, funding organizations, and governmental entities on planning and development initiatives.
  • Collaborate with staff and external partners to identify community and economic development needs, develop solutions, and support regional planning efforts.
  • Conduct workshops, training sessions, public presentations, and educational outreach related to planning, GIS, infrastructure, and economic development topics.
  • Attend and participate in fiscal court, city council, board, stakeholder, and other public meetings as required.
  • Become Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) certified and maintain certifications or training relevant to the position as required.
  • Effectively communicate technical and planning-related information to both technical and non-technical audiences.
  • Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Bachelor’s Degree in geography, urban planning, planning, public administration, or closely related field.
  • Practical experience working with GIS preferred.
  • Experience in community or economic development preferred.
  • A combination of education and experience may be substituted when competency is demonstrated.
  • Become a certified Community Development Block Grant Valid driver’s license in state of residence.
  • May be required to become certified in operating drones.

SPECIALIZED SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES:
  • Knowledge of GIS software, mapping applications, spatial analysis techniques, and related databases.
  • Strong analytical, research, and problem-solving skills with the ability to compile, interpret, and present technical and statistical information.
  • Ability to create, analyze, and interpret maps, datasets, reports, and planning documents.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft 365 and other standard office and data management software.
  • Professional and technical skills in planning, research, grant writing, project management, and community and economic development.
  • Excellent written, verbal, presentation, and interpersonal communication skills, including the ability to effectively communicate technical information to non-technical audiences.
  • Ability to conduct presentations and facilitate discussions in both small and large group settings.
  • Strong organizational, time management, and project coordination skills with the ability to manage multiple assignments and meet deadlines.
  • Ability to prioritize tasks, work independently with minimal supervision, and exercise mature business judgment.
  • Strong interpersonal, networking, and relationship-building skills with the ability to work collaboratively with staff, local governments, stakeholders, and community organizations.
  • Ability to perform detailed and accurate work while maintaining confidentiality and professionalism.
  • Good listening skills and the ability to respond effectively to stakeholder and community needs.
  • Ability to operate computers, GIS equipment, GPS equipment, drones (if certified), and other standard office equipment.

WORKING CONDITIONS:
Work is typically performed in an office sitting at a desk. Long periods of time working at a computer with mapping software. May work under tight timelines. Travel within the five-county area is required. Some evening/weekend work may be required. Occasional over-night and out-of-state travel.

EFFORT:
  • Must be able to see, hear, and speak.
  • Intermittent sitting, standing, stooping, fingering, sorting and reaching.
  • Occasional light lifting may be required.

MACHINES, TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT:
  • Equipment typically used includes a personal computer, printer, copier, Trimble or equivalent GPS receiver and drones.
  • The usage of Microsoft 365 products is a must.

BENEFITS: 
  • Competitive benefits package with fully paid employee health, dental, vision, and life insurance coverage.
  • $25,000 life and accidental death & dismemberment insurance provided at no cost to employees. 
  • Participation in the Kentucky County Employees Retirement System (CERS), including employer contributions toward retirement and retiree health benefits. 
  • Optional Kentucky Deferred Compensation Plan to help supplement retirement savings. 
  • Optional AFLAC and Colonial Life supplemental insurance plans, including short-term disability and critical illness coverage.
  • Generous paid time off package including vacation leave, sick leave, paid holidays, and floating holidays. 
  • Fourteen (14) paid holidays annually, plus additional holiday time during Presidential election years and two floating holidays.
  • Vacation and sick leave accrued each pay period beginning on day one of employment.
  • Optional one work from home day, post completion of job orientation.
  • Monday–Friday work schedule with limited overnight travel depending on position responsibilities. 
  • Paid lodging, per diem, and travel reimbursement for approved work-related travel.
  • Mileage reimbursement when using a personal vehicle for work-related activities.
  • Supportive work environment focused on public service, professional development, and regional impact.