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Economic Development Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

City of Mesa, AZ

Economic Development Specialist

Mesa, AZ · On-site

$74K - $102K/yr

An Economic Development Specialist performs a wide variety of activities to attract new development opportunities and promote Mesa's value as a business location, generate qualified prospects, and ...

City of Mesa

Economic Development Specialist

Mesa, AZ

$74K - $102K/yr

An Economic Development Specialist performs a wide variety of activities to attract new development opportunities and promote Mesa's value as a business location, generate qualified prospects, and ...

Aston Carter

Account Development Executive

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$26 - $27/hr

Collaborate with the Field Manager to engage local influencers and organizations, including chambers of commerce and economic development associations, to drive referrals and increase program ...

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All JobsEconomic Development JobsEconomic Development Jobs in Arizona

Economic Development information

See Arizona salary details

$28.9K

$96K

$144.4K

How much do economic development jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 10, 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 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 most commonly searched types of Economic Development jobs in Arizona? The most popular types of Economic Development jobs in Arizona are:
What are popular job titles related to Economic Development jobs in Arizona? For Economic Development jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Economic Development jobs in Arizona look for? The top searched job categories for 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:
Economic Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Economic Development job openings in Arizona as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,003 per year, or $46.2 per hour.

Economic Development Specialist

Fountain Hills

Fountain Hills, AZ • On-site

$76K - $109K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

Salary: $76,909.00 - $109,980.00 Annually
Location : Fountain Hills, AZ
Job Type: Full-time
Job Number: EcDevSpclst_2026
Department: Administration
Division: Economic Development
Opening Date: 05/12/2026
Description
The Town of Fountain Hills (fountainhillsaz.gov) has an exciting full-time job opportunity in the Economic Development Division. The Town is seeking a full-time Economic Development Specialist to assist with implementing the Community Economic Development Strategy and Downtown Fountain Hills Strategy.
This position is crucial to advancing the Town of Fountain Hills' economic initiatives and providing essential support to the Economic Development Director in executing a comprehensive economic development program. The position requires professionalism and a strong commitment to representing the Town's values, facilitating effective communication, managing key projects, and engaging with stakeholders. This position requires attention to detail and a proactive approach, ensuring all interactions reflect positively on the Town's mission.
Position will remain open until filled.
  • Applications will be reviewed weekly.

Anticipated Hiring Range: $76,909 - $93,445, depending on qualifications and experience.
  • While the full pending salary range is listed in this posting, the Town anticipates hiring within the range shown above.
  • The pending salary range assumes Council approval effective July 1, 2026.

Examples of Duties
  • Assists with programs in economic development activities (i.e., business retention and expansion (BRE); marketing and recruitment; travel/tourism/; downtown/placemaking).
  • Develops and assists, under the direction of the Director with communications, marketing material and media releases related to Economic Development initiatives and functions. Oversees content creation and distribution through social media platforms, press releases, and website maintenance to promote programs, events, and community engagement.
  • Assist with planning and execution of events for Economic Development.
  • Collects, organizes, and analyzes data.
  • Assists with the administration and management of Proposition 202 and Proposition 302 grant funding, including grant application preparation, review of nonprofit funding applications, and completion of required documentation, reporting, and compliance activities.
  • Participates and promotes ongoing region-wide communication and knowledge on Economic Development issues.
  • Receives and responds in a timely manner to citizen requests, complaints, and inquiries.
  • Analyzes and compiles economic and demographic data.
  • Performs related duties as assigned.

Typical Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Economic Development, Regional Development, Economics, Urban Planning, Public Administration, Marketing, Geography, or related field.
  • Knowledge of local, state, and federal laws and regulations relevant to Economic Development.
  • Knowledge of history, tourist attractions, economic resources, business opportunities and offerings of Fountain Hills.
  • Knowledge of geographic layout of Fountain Hills and surrounding areas.
  • Ability to communicate the Town's Economic Development policies effectively
  • Ability to develop collaborative working relationships with local businesses and community organizations
  • Ability to maintain cooperative and effective relationships with intradepartmental and interdepartmental personnel, as well as external entities with whom position interacts.
  • Required to attend and complete the Basic Economic Development Course within the first year of employment. The course will be paid for by the Town.

Supplemental Information
Valid driver's license for a minimum of two years with a good driving record required.The Town currently designates this job as a "safety-sensitive position." Accordingly, the Town requires satisfactory completion of a drug and alcohol screening as a condition of employment.
The Town of Fountain Hills provides full-time employees with all the benefits that you would expect from a municipality, such as generous vacation, health insurance, retirement programs, and tuition assistance. Please explore the link below to learn more about employee benefits for you and your dependents.
The Town of Fountain Hills participates in the 401A defined contribution retirement plan through Mission Square (formerly International City/County Management Association Retirement Corporation, ICMA-RC). Full-time employees contribute 11% and the Town matches that amount 100%, in their 401A account. The Town of Fountain Hills does not participate in the ASRS (Arizona State Retirement System). The Town does not participate in the PSPRS (Public Safety Personnel Retirement System). For more information on Mission Square, the website is listed here:
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The anticipated hiring range for this position is $76,909 - $93,445, depending on qualifications and experience. Please provide your minimum yearly salary requirement.
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