1

Economic Development Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Planner

Rochester, MN · On-site

$79K - $112K/yr

It takes us all working together Nature of Work The Planner position provides professional expertise and assistance for a range of planning, development, economic development and related department ...

New

Establishes relationships with economic development advocates to ensure customer needs are identified and communicated with the appropriate audiences. * Ensures that all customer requests are ...

Establishes relationships with economic development advocates to ensure customer needs are identified and communicated with the appropriate audiences. * Ensures that all customer requests are ...

Establishes relationships with economic development advocates to ensure customer needs are identified and communicated with the appropriate audiences. * Ensures that all customer requests are ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Economic Development information

See Minnesota salary details

$30.4K

$100.9K

$151.8K

How much do economic development jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development in Minnesota is $100,899.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,800.00 and $121,900.00 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 Minnesota? The most popular types of Economic Development jobs in Minnesota are:
What are popular job titles related to Economic Development jobs in Minnesota? For Economic Development jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Economic Development jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Economic Development job openings:
Infographic showing various Economic Development job openings in Minnesota as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,899 per year, or $48.5 per hour.
Farmer Advocate

Farmer Advocate

Hmong American Farmers Association

Vermillion, MN • On-site

$50K - $55K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

TITLE: Farmer Advocate

LOCATION: Vermillion Township/West St Paul

COMPENSATION: Full-Time, Permanent, $50,000-$55,000 (based on experience)

SUPERVISOR: Capacity Building Director

The Hmong American Farmers Association (HAFA) is seeking to hire a Farmer Advocates to provide technical assistance and support to HAFA’s farmer members, as well as grow HAFA’s membership, and the organization’s strategic partnerships.

HAFA is a social justice organization that is committed to advancing the economic, social and cultural prosperity of Hmong American farmers through advocacy, economic development, capacity building and research. More specifically, HAFA uses an organizing approach to work with its members and other farmers in the Hmong community to access land, equipment, capital and trainings so that they can improve their farming operations, and thereby, lift their families out of poverty. As a member based organization, HAFA was started by and is led by Hmong American farmers.

Job Description

The Farmer Advocate will serve as the main provider of technical assistance and support to the organization’s farmer members.

Responsibilities may include but are not limited to:

·        Supervising HAFA interns, volunteers and other seasonal workers;

·        Working with HAFA’s statewide and national partners and allies;

·        Collecting data for grant deliverables;

·        Providing technical assistance and support on:

o   Farmer Trainings

o   Soil Health

o   Emerging Crops and Other Research Projects

o   Crop Insurance/ Crop Mapping/ Crop Planning and Crop Loss Claims Process

o   Federal Programs such as EQIP and CRP

o   Whole Farm Planning

o   Record Keeping

o   Farm Business Management

o   Farm Equipment Purchases

o   Accessing Microloans

o   Food Safety and Post-Harvest Handling

o   Sorting and Grading Produce

o   Supplying Produce for Customized Community Supported Agriculture; and

·        Using community organizing tactics and strategies to grow intergenerational and community wealth for Hmong farmers.

Requirements

The ideal candidate should be highly motivated with excellent interpersonal and bi-cultural communication skills. He or she must be detail oriented, mature, and be willing to work hard. HAFA operates in a mission driven and fast pace manner, and the ideal candidate must be able to work with farmers and other team members, under tight deadlines and unpredictable weather conditions, all the while getting the work done.

He or she must have 1-3 years’ experience in the agricultural, teaching, social work or community organizing sectors and be willing to undergo intense learning around technical issues in farming. The ideal candidate must also be knowledgeable of Microsoft and other office related software programs. Some evenings and weekend hours may be required. Ability to fluently speak Hmong and familiarity with Hmong culture and customs is critical.

HAFA is especially interested in candidates who are committed to social, economic and racial justice. If interested, please send a

cover letter, a resume with three references, and a writing sample to: Hmong American Farmers Association at info@hmongfarmers.com.

Company Description

HAFA is a social justice organization that is committed to advancing the economic, social and cultural prosperity of Hmong American farmers through advocacy, economic development, capacity building and research. More specifically, HAFA uses an organizing approach to work with its members and other farmers in the Hmong community to access land, equipment, capital and trainings so that they can improve their farming operations, and thereby, lift their families out of poverty. As a member based organization, HAFA was started by and is led by Hmong American farmers.