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Economic Development Specialist information

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$33.5K

$67.8K

$110.5K

How much do economic development specialist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development specialist in the United States is $67,805.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,500.00 and $79,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much does an economic development specialist make?

The average salary for an economic development specialist is around $70,000 to $85,000 per year, depending on experience, education, and location. Professionals in this role often have skills in economic analysis, project management, and community engagement, and may work for government agencies, non-profits, or private firms.

What is the difference between Economic Development Specialist vs Urban Planner?

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

While both roles aim to improve communities, an Economic Development Specialist concentrates on economic growth and business development, whereas an Urban Planner focuses on land use and urban design. They often collaborate but serve different primary functions within community development projects.

What jobs make $1,000,000 a year?

Economic Development Specialists typically do not earn $1,000,000 annually; such high earnings are usually associated with top executives, successful entrepreneurs, investment bankers, or specialized professionals in finance and technology. Achieving this level of income often requires extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles in high-growth industries or private firms.

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

To thrive as an Economic Development Specialist, you need a solid background in economics, urban planning, or public administration, often supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with data analysis tools, GIS systems, and economic impact modeling software is typically required. Strong communication, project management, and stakeholder engagement skills help you build partnerships and drive development initiatives. These skills and qualifications are crucial for designing effective strategies that foster economic growth and community well-being.

What kind of jobs in media bring in $150,000 a year?

High-level media jobs that can earn $150,000 or more annually include roles such as media executives, senior producers, and top-tier advertising directors. These positions typically require extensive experience, strong leadership skills, and often involve managing large teams or budgets in fast-paced environments.

How does an Economic Development Specialist typically collaborate with local government and community organizations?

Economic Development Specialists regularly work alongside local government officials, community leaders, and business organizations to identify opportunities for economic growth and address local challenges. This collaboration often includes attending public meetings, participating in strategic planning sessions, and coordinating grant proposals or incentive programs. By fostering these relationships, specialists ensure that development initiatives align with community needs and regulatory requirements, while also generating support for new projects.

What Does an Economic Development Specialist Do?

An economic development specialist analyzes and improves the standard of living or business conditions in a geographic area. They may work for a business or a city, county, or state government. Job duties involve devising and implementing strategies for economic growth and financial stability, building relationships with potential clients or partners, and analyzing information. Qualifications for a career as an economic development specialist are a bachelor’s degree in business or management, several years of work experience, and strong mathematical reasoning skills.

What does an economic development specialist do?

An economic development specialist analyzes economic data and develops strategies to promote growth and job creation within a community or region. They often work with government agencies, businesses, and stakeholders to attract investment, support business development, and improve economic conditions, using tools like market research and policy analysis.
More about Economic Development Specialist jobs
What cities are hiring for Economic Development Specialist jobs? Cities with the most Economic Development Specialist job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Economic Development Specialist jobs? The top employers for Economic Development Specialist jobs are:
What states have the most Economic Development Specialist jobs? States with the most job openings for Economic Development Specialist jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Economic Development Specialist jobs? For Economic Development Specialist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Economic Development Specialist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Economic Development Specialist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,805 per year, or $32.6 per hour.

PROJECT DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST

Development Authority of the North Country

Watertown, NY • On-site

$63K - $78K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Job Summary: The Project Development Specialist supports a variety of community and economic development initiatives under the supervision of the Senior Project Development Specialist. This role is responsible for assisting with loan underwriting for Authority programs and regional economic development organizations, providing financial oversight for regional revolving loan programs, and assisting in the administration of state and federal grants. The Project Development Specialist also supports the implementation of housing programs, including the North Country HOME Consortium and several municipal housing initiatives. The position requires collaboration with local municipal staff, economic development organizations, housing providers, businesses, and homeowners to advance regional development goals.
Duties/Responsibilities:
  • Collaborate with municipal partners, economic development organizations, housing providers, businesses, and homeowners to advance regional initiatives.
  • Work with internal teams to ensure effective project planning, coordination and implementation.
  • Identify, develop, and implement community and economic development projects and programs that support regional goals.
  • Assist in the administration and oversight of housing and community development revolving loan programs, ensuring compliance, accuracy, and financial integrity.
  • Support the management and the coordination of contracted programs and services, including the North Country HOME Consortium, North Country Alliance, and North Country Economic Development Fund.
  • Assist with loan underwriting by reviewing and analyzing financial statements, performing credit assessments, and preparing related documentation.
  • Support project management activities, including the planning, implementation, monitoring, and reporting for housing programs and other Authority initiatives.
  • Provide technical assistance, guidance and capacity building support to strategic partners, community stakeholders, and local municipalities.
  • Assist with grant writing, proposal development, and the administration of state and federal grants.
  • Perform related duties to support the overall operations, goals and objective of the Authority.

Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills and Abilities):
  • Proficient with MS Office (Outlook, Word, Excel) and familiarity with project management or financial software.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders, including government officials, community partners, and private sector representatives.
  • Strong organizational and project management skills, with attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously.
  • Demonstrated professionalism, sound judgment, creativity, and flexibility in decision-making and problem solving.
  • Ability to learn quickly, adapt to evolving priorities, and thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced work environment.
  • Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively while exercising independent judgement.

Education: Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Finance, Economics, Community Development, or a related field.
Professional Certification/Licenses: None
Experience:
  • Minimum of three (3) years of experience in financial underwriting, business financial statement preparation and analysis, and project management.
  • Experience supporting programs in small cities, rural communities, or other underserved areas is a plus.
  • One (1) year of experience in community and economic development, affordable housing is preferred.
  • An equivalent combination of skills, education, training, and experience sufficient to perform the responsibilities of the position may be acceptable.

Pre-employment Physical Exam and Drug Test Required: Yes
Annual Physical Exam Required: No
Minimum Driver's License: New York State Class "D"
Travel Requirements: <10%
Typical Work Schedule: Regularly works Monday through Friday during normal business hours and requires willingness to work a flexible schedule when needed.
Environmental: Typical office environment where employee is protected from weather conditions or contaminants.
Benefits: NYS Employees' Retirement System, NYS Deferred Compensation, 12-paid holidays, 3-weeks' vacation, 10-sick days, 2-personal holidays, an employer funded Health Reimbursement Account (HRA) for medical and prescriptions benefits, dental, vision and short-term disability insurance, professional development and tuition reimbursement.
Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.
The Development Authority of the North Country is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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