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Economic Development Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Economic Development Director

Gilbert, AZ · On-site

$153K - $229K/yr

We Are Seeking Team Gilbert is seeking an Economic Development Director to lead our Economic Development Department, which consists of 13 full-time positions budgeted for fiscal year 2027. This team ...

College Economics Tutor

Mesa, AZ · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes analytical rigor and connects economic theory to real-world policy debates, development challenges, and business strategy. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction: Familiar with ...

College Economics Tutor

Tempe, AZ · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes analytical rigor and connects economic theory to real-world policy debates, development challenges, and business strategy. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction: Familiar with ...

College Economics Tutor

Gilbert, AZ · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes analytical rigor and connects economic theory to real-world policy debates, development challenges, and business strategy. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction: Familiar with ...

College Economics Tutor

Tucson, AZ · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes analytical rigor and connects economic theory to real-world policy debates, development challenges, and business strategy. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction: Familiar with ...

College Economics Tutor

Chandler, AZ · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes analytical rigor and connects economic theory to real-world policy debates, development challenges, and business strategy. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction: Familiar with ...

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Economic Development information

See Arizona salary details

$28.9K

$96K

$144.4K

How much do economic development jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development in Arizona is $96,003.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,900.00 and $116,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is economic development?

Economic development refers to the process by which the economic well-being and quality of life of a region, community, or country are improved. This typically involves efforts to create jobs, attract investment, support businesses, enhance infrastructure, and promote sustainable growth. Professionals in economic development work with government agencies, private sector partners, and community organizations to create strategies that foster economic opportunities and address local challenges. Their goal is to build resilient economies that benefit all residents.

What is the difference between Economic Development vs Urban Planner?

AspectEconomic DevelopmentUrban Planner
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in economics, public policy, or related field; often certifications in economic developmentBachelor's or master's in urban planning, geography, or related field; licensure may be required
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, economic development organizations, consulting firmsMunicipalities, government agencies, private planning firms
Industry UsageFocuses on economic growth, business attraction, and community developmentFocuses on land use, zoning, and urban design

While both roles aim to improve communities, economic development professionals focus on boosting local economies and attracting businesses, whereas urban planners concentrate on land use, zoning, and urban design to shape city landscapes.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in Economic Development roles, and how can they be addressed?

Economic Development professionals often encounter challenges such as balancing the needs of diverse stakeholders, navigating complex regulatory environments, and securing funding for projects. Success in this field requires strong communication and negotiation skills to build consensus among government officials, business leaders, and community members. Proactively staying updated on policy changes, leveraging data-driven approaches, and building strong partnerships can help address these challenges and drive impactful outcomes.

What professions make $500,000 a year?

In economic development and related fields, high-paying roles such as senior economic consultants, chief development officers, and executive-level positions in large organizations can earn $500,000 or more annually. These roles typically require extensive experience, advanced degrees, and strong leadership skills, often involving strategic planning and stakeholder management.

What profession makes $400,000 a year?

In the field of economic development, senior roles such as Chief Economic Development Officer or high-level consultants can earn $400,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and leadership responsibilities. These positions often require strong analytical skills, strategic planning, and a deep understanding of regional or national economic policies.

What is a career in economic development?

A career in economic development involves working to improve the economic well-being of communities by attracting new businesses, supporting existing industries, and creating jobs. Professionals in this field often analyze economic data, develop strategic plans, and collaborate with government agencies, requiring skills in research, communication, and project management.

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

To thrive as an Economic Development professional, you need a background in economics, public administration, or urban planning, often supported by a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a related field. Familiarity with data analysis tools, GIS software, project management platforms, and knowledge of relevant regulations or certifications like CEcD are essential. Strong communication, relationship-building, and problem-solving skills distinguish top performers in this role. These skills are vital for successfully attracting investment, fostering sustainable growth, and collaborating with stakeholders to drive community prosperity.

What are the different types of economic development jobs?

Economic development jobs include roles such as economic development director, business development specialist, project manager, and urban planner. These positions often involve tasks like attracting investment, planning community projects, and analyzing economic data, requiring skills in research, communication, and policy analysis.
What are the most commonly searched types of Economic Development jobs in Arizona? The most popular types of Economic Development jobs in Arizona are:
What cities in Arizona are hiring for Economic Development jobs? Cities in Arizona with the most Economic Development job openings:
Infographic showing various Economic Development job openings in Arizona as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $96,003 per year, or $46.2 per hour.

Economic Development Director

Town of Gilbert, AZ

Gilbert, AZ • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Salary: Depends on Qualifications
Location : Economic Development 90 E. Civic Center Drive, Gilbert, AZ 85296, AZ
Job Type: Full Time
Job Number: ECDEVDIRECTOR
Department: ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Opening Date: 06/29/2026
Closing Date: 8/2/2026 11:59 PM Arizona
We Are Seeking
Team Gilbert is seeking an Economic Development Director to lead our Economic Development Department, which consists of 13 full-time positions budgeted for fiscal year 2027. This team expertly implements targeted strategies to foster economic prosperity across business development, redevelopment, and tourism services.
Gilbert has partnered with the Duffy Group for this recruitment. In order to apply for this position, please send a detailed resume and a cover letter to Nicole Gruenhaupt, Practice Leader at Duffy Group, at You may also contact Nicole via phone at 602-899-9294.
About You
Learn more about our ideal candidate, the position, and the Town of Gilbert by viewing our candidate brochure below, or clicking the following link:
Why Team Gilbert?
We Are Here to Help!
Gilbert is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. If any reasonable accommodation is needed while participating in the application and interviewing process, please contact our People Team (Human Resources) at 480-503-6823. Requests should be made as early as possible to allow time to arrange the accommodation.
Gilbert provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.
Gilbert offers a comprehensive benefits package for qualifying positions that includes medical and dental insurance, life insurance, disability, pension, tuition reimbursement, parental leave, babies at work, and more! to see a list of our benefit offerings at-a-glance, or visit our website to see our