1

Economic Development Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

College Intern - Economic Development

Waterford, MI · Hybrid

$15.25 - $20.25/hr

... development, economic vitality, and place-based initiatives. Gather, organize, and analyze community data, economic vitality statistics, building inventories, or other information to assist with ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Economic Development information

See Michigan salary details

$27K

$89.8K

$135.1K

How much do economic development jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development in Michigan is $89,792.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,000.00 and $108,500.00 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 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 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 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 the most commonly searched types of Economic Development jobs in Michigan?

The most popular types of Economic Development jobs in Michigan are:

What are popular job titles related to Economic Development jobs in Michigan?

For Economic Development jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Economic Development jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Economic Development jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Economic Development jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Economic Development job openings:

Infographic showing various Economic Development job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 90% In-person, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,792 per year, or $43.2 per hour.

Economic Development Manager

Holland, City of (MI)

Holland, MI • On-site

$101K - $121K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Description Under the general direction of the City Manager, this position is responsible for providing professional support for the City's economic, community, and housing development efforts, and provides an advanced level of professional support for development and redevelopment functions in coordination with other City departments and regional, state, and development partners. Examples of Duties 1. Develop and implement strategies to promote economic growth and vitality within the City of Holland.

2. Acts as the primary staff person responsible for attracting and retaining businesses, industries, and investment opportunities to the area while working in collaboration with local and state economic development agencies. 3.

Leads in the development and implementation of the Housing Support Policy and related programs, including but not limited to Brownfield Tax Increment Financing (TIF), including housing gap subsidy strategies. Manages a broad range of local, state, and federal incentive tools to further housing development. 4.

Coordinates economic development initiatives for the City, develops and implements economic development policy, and provides information and guidance to regional partners to assist in the location of new business in the City. 5. Coordinates tax abatement programs in collaboration with Lakeshore Advantage.

Duties include helping businesses to understand the program benefits, working with companies to prepare applications and ensure timely and accurate submissions, preparing and monitoring applications for State Tax Commission review process, reporting job creation, and taxes paid and benefits to the community from abatement applications. 6. Coordinate with developers, architects, and contractors to ensure projects align with City goals and regulations.

Facilitate partnerships between public and private sectors to leverage resources for economic development initiatives. 7. Collaborate with local businesses, chambers of commerce, and economic development organizations to support existing businesses and foster a culture of entrepreneurship.

8. Provides staff support to City Commission and Brownfield Redevelopment Authority by preparing reports, notices, and recommendations, attending meetings, assisting applicants, explaining the hearing process, answering inquiries, conducting public presentations to communicate and inform on the benefits and costs of a project or program, devises solutions, and coordinates efforts with other City departments. 9.

Coordinate with City officials, community leaders, and stakeholders to support infrastructure improvements and public amenities that enhance economic development efforts. 10. Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of economic development programs and initiatives, adjusting as needed to achieve desired outcomes.

11. Conduct market research and analysis to identify market trends, opportunities, and challenges, and prepare a variety of written communications, including analytical reports, graphs, and correspondence. 12.

Represent the City in meetings with community boards, neighborhood organizations, and commissions as required, and attend economic development conferences, events, and meetings with stakeholders to promote opportunities and attract investment. 13. Identify and pursue grant opportunities, with assistance from the City's Grant Manager, to fund economic development projects and programs.

14. Manage budgets, expenditures, and financial resources related to economic development efforts. 15.

Demonstrates courteous and cooperative behavior when interacting with the public and staff and acts in a manner that promotes an effective workplace culture. 16. May lead various initiatives as directed by the City Manager.

17. Performs other duties as assigned. Typical Qualifications 1.

Bachelor's degree in public administration, urban planning, business management, or a related field. A master's degree is preferred. 2.

A minimum of two years of experience working for a municipality, 501C3, or private entity in economic development or urban planning. 3. Knowledge of Tax Increment Financing (TIF), Brownfield Redevelopment Authorities, and other economic development tools and financing practices.

4. Interpersonal skills to establish and maintain effective working relationships with a diverse group of individuals including City leadership, public officials, community stakeholders, developers, the public, and all levels of City staff. 5.

Effective communicator, both verbally and in writing.