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Economic Development Jobs in Idaho (NOW HIRING)

Community Development Specialist

Boise, ID · On-site

$27.25 - $29.25/hr

As the lead economic development and marketing agency for the State of Idaho, the mission of the Idaho Department of Commerce is to foster a business-friendly environment to aid in quality job ...

TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES: • Implements projects and plans for economic development and community development; • Updates Tribal transportation planning documents and ensures allocations, contracts ...

TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES: • Implements projects and plans for economic development and community development; • Updates Tribal transportation planning documents and ensures allocations, contracts ...

You'll own a function that sits at the intersection of public affairs, economic development, and communications - and you'll build it from scratch. This is a high-leverage role with direct exposure ...

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

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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Showing results 1-20

Economic Development information

See Idaho salary details

$29.2K

$96.9K

$145.8K

How much do economic development jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development in Idaho is $96,931.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,700.00 and $117,100.00 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 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 and stakeholders to promote growth and sustainability.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an economic development professional?

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, urban planner, and project manager. 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 Idaho? The most popular types of Economic Development jobs in Idaho are:
What job categories do people searching Economic Development jobs in Idaho look for? The top searched job categories for Economic Development jobs in Idaho are:
What cities in Idaho are hiring for Economic Development jobs? Cities in Idaho with the most Economic Development job openings:
Infographic showing various Economic Development job openings in Idaho as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,931 per year, or $46.6 per hour.

Community Development Specialist

LUMA

Boise, ID • On-site

$27.25 - $29.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

State of Idaho Career Opportunity
Applications will be accepted through 11:59 PM MST on the posting end date.
As the lead economic development and marketing agency for the State of Idaho, the mission of the Idaho Department of Commerce is to foster a business-friendly environment to aid in quality job creation, support existing companies, strengthen communities, promote innovation, and market Idaho domestically and internationally.
Description:
The Idaho Department of Commerce is seeking a Community Development Specialist in Boise to support the administration and oversight of federal and state grant programs that assist in community investment and economic development across Idaho. The position provides administration, technical guidance, monitoring, and compliance support for grant funded public facility and infrastructure projects.
This position reports to the Community Development Manager.
Example of Duties:
  • Provide grant management, project monitoring, and technical assistance for the Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program and the State Rural Community Investment Fund (RCIF) program.
  • Provide guidance to local government officials and grant administrators to help ensure their proposed public facility and infrastructure project will meet required eligibility standards and program objectives. Guidance may include pre-development site visits.
  • Oversee, monitor, and track contracts and project status with Grantees (cities and counties) and sub-recipients. Ensure Grantees are complying with contract requirements and program rules.
  • Review and monitor applications and funded public facility and infrastructure projects for federal compliance with applicable CDBG rules for: eligibility, environmental reviews, procurement, federal labor standards, Build America Buy America provisions, property acquisition, and civil rights. Compliance reviews include utilizing the Department's monitoring guide and may include on-site monitoring.
  • Review, rate, and score CDBG and RCIF grant applications and prepares funding recommendations. Present and justify recommendations to the Economic Advisory Council.
  • Prepare and review grant agreements.
  • Provide guidance on preparing bidding documents and request for proposals to ensure compliance with CDBG requirements.
  • Review and approve payment requests, project budgets, and closeout documents.
  • Prepare and conduct grant application and grant administration workshops for local officials and consultants. Provide individualized training sessions on the CDBG program, which may include virtual and recorded sessions.
  • Help in reviewing and editing CDBG and RCIF documents and handbooks.
  • Assist in preparation of annual Consolidated Planning documents.
  • Gather, assemble, update, and/or file program related information, forms, and records.
  • Ensure required documentation submitted to allow for closeout of projects.
  • Assist in data maintenance of the CDBG projects within HUD's IDIS records information system.
  • Conduct debarment clearances and verification of Davis-Bacon wage determinations via the System for Award Management (SAM.gov).
  • Communicate frequently with Grantees and provide technical assistance with federal and state requirements.
  • Research and analyze issues or need areas.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:You must possess all the minimum qualifications below to pass the exam for this position. You must attach a resume, work history and references to your application. Your resume and work history must clearly reflect how you meet the minimum qualifications. Failure to provide this information may disqualify you from being considered for this position.
Experience:
  • Working in a professional capacity with a federal, state and/or local economic or community development organization;
  • Planning and conducting activities such as group meetings, workshops, or seminars;
  • Interpreting and applying laws and regulations;
  • Developing grants or contracts including identifying goals and timetables and determining program needs and funding;
  • Monitoring and evaluating grant or contract activities and expenditures.

Preferred Experience: It is not required for this position, but applicants with this experience may receive consideration over other applicants.
Experience:
  • Knowledge of federal and/or state public facility, infrastructure or housing programs. Programs such as CDBG, HOME, DEQ / USDA-Rural Development loan funds or similar programs.
  • Contract administration and program management for publicly funded construction projects.
  • Evaluating and scoring applications or proposals.
  • Developing written reports and making presentations.

Experience and Education: Any combination of experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be college level coursework and increasingly responsible experience in community or economic development and/or housing program administration.
Benefits:
The State of Idaho offers a robust total compensation and benefits package, including but not limited to:
  • One of the top 5 retirement systems in the Nation (PERSI) that offers a defined lifetime benefit at retirement
  • 2 voluntary supplemental retirement plans including both pre-tax and Roth options
  • Medical, vision, and dental insurance benefits that become effective first of the month following your hire date. All contributions can be pre-tax
  • 11 paid holidays
  • Paid sick and vacation that begins accruing on your first day of employment; can be used immediately after accruing (no waiting time)
  • Paid parental leave
  • Life insurance for self, spouse, and children
  • Additional perks and discounts available through medical provider
  • Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Eligibility
  • Employee assistance program

EEO/ADA/Veteran:
The State of Idaho is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their status as protected veterans or individuals with disabilities and prohibit discrimination against all individuals based on their race, color, religion, political affiliation or belief, sex, national origin, genetics, or any other status protected under applicable federal, state, or local laws.
The State of Idaho is committed to access and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities, auxiliary aids and services are available upon request. If you require an accommodation at any step in our recruitment process, you are encouraged to contact (208) 334-2263 (TTY/TTD: 711), or email ada.coordinator@dhr.idaho.gov.
Preference may be given to veterans who qualify under state and federal laws and regulations.

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About Luma

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Arts, entertainment, and recreation

Company size

201 - 500 Employees

Headquarters location

Santa Monica, CA, US

Year founded

2002