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Economic Development Jobs in Mississippi (NOW HIRING)

Varsity Tutors

College Economics Tutor

Starkville, MS · 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 ...

State of Mississippi

Training Coordinator

Jackson, MS · On-site

$43K - $47K/yr

The Mississippi Development Authority (MDA) is the state's lead economic and community development agency. MDA recruits new companies to Mississippi, helps existing companies expand and provides ...

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All JobsEconomic Development JobsEconomic Development Jobs in Mississippi

Economic Development information

See Mississippi salary details

$29.4K

$97.6K

$146.8K

How much do economic development jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development in Mississippi is $97,567.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,200.00 and $117,900.00 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 Mississippi? The most popular types of Economic Development jobs in Mississippi are:
What are popular job titles related to Economic Development jobs in Mississippi? For Economic Development jobs in Mississippi, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Economic Development jobs in Mississippi look for? The top searched job categories for Economic Development jobs in Mississippi are:
What cities in Mississippi are hiring for Economic Development jobs? Cities in Mississippi with the most Economic Development job openings:
Economic Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Economic Development job openings in Mississippi as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,567 per year, or $46.9 per hour.

Economic Development Representative

Southern Company

Hattiesburg, MS • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 17 days ago

Southern Company rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Job Summary

This position is responsible for the development and implementation of strategies and programs that support industrial development within the Mississippi Power service territory. There will be flexibility in the day-to-day work location, based on department needs and successful candidate location. This will be located in a Mississippi Power owned facility. 

Job Requirements

  • Four-year college degree preferred. Preference for a degree in marketing, business administration, or a master's degree in economic development.
  • A minimum of two years of experience in economic development, sales, marketing, or a related field is strongly preferred.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of the economic development process, product development, marketing and sales, general collateral, and graphic design.
  • Proven ability to lead complex projects through completion.
  • Excellent interpersonal and presentation skills.
  • Demonstrated ability to apply analytical processes and sound judgment to solve complex problems.
  • Proven ability to work closely with both internal and external groups.

  • General working knowledge of company operations is preferred.

Major Job Responsibilities

  • Work with the economic development team and leadership to proactively identify, assess, and implement economic development initiatives, incentives, and programs that support the goals of the economic development department.
  • Oversee the development and implementation of a marketing strategy, including collateral, presentations, and website design.
  • Provide oversight of the site evaluation and certification program for industrial and large commercial sites in partnership with the economic development team and local economic development partners.
  • Provide leadership and support for economic development initiatives that will enhance the growth of our communities. Assist in developing the recruiting strategy and existing business retention strategy.
  • Oversee and generate industrial leads for recruitment.
  • Monitor, assess, and recommend new and innovative economic development programs for department consideration.
  • Build and sustain key internal and external relationships, including Marketing, Distribution, and Transmission, as well as the Mississippi Development Authority and county economic development organizations.
Mississippi Power, a subsidiary of Southern Company, provides clean, safe, reliable, and affordable energy to more than 192,000 customers and communities in 23 southeast Mississippi counties. For over 100 years, Mississippi Power is a leader in customer service, workforce development and education, environmental stewardship, and employee volunteerism. The company is an industry leader when it comes to working safely, providing around-the-clock reliable service and its expert storm response. Mississippi Power has been at the forefront of innovation in the state through strategic partnerships in electric transportation and solar energy. The company has worked with the Coast Transit Authority to put the state's first electric public transportation bus in operation and with Forrest County Agriculture High School on the state's first electric school bus. It also partnered with the Hattiesburg Zoo on a new electric train and worked with the country's largest Domino's franchise to electrify its delivery fleet. Also, a leader in renewable energy, Mississippi Power partnered with the Naval Construction Battalion Center to install the first microgrid at a Navy facility. The company was among the first to introduce utility scale solar in the state with nearly 160 MW of renewable energy produced, enough to power 23,000 homes for a year. Mississippi Power's mission is to provide world-class value to our customers and communities every day.

Southern Company (NYSE: SO) is a leading energy provider serving 9 million customers across the Southeast and beyond through its family of companies. Providing clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy with excellent service is our mission. The company has electric operating companies in three states, natural gas distribution companies in four states, a competitive generation company, a leading distributed energy solutions provider with national capabilities, a fiber optics network and telecommunications services. Through an industry-leading commitment to innovation, resilience and sustainability, we are taking action to meet customers' and communities' needs while advancing our goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. Our uncompromising values ensure we put the needs of those we serve at the center of everything we do and are the key to our sustained success. We are transforming energy into economic, environmental and social progress for tomorrow. Our corporate culture has been recognized by a variety of organizations, earning the company awards and recognitions that reflect Our Values and dedication to service. To learn more, visit www.southerncompany.com. 

Southern Company invests in the well-being of its employees and their families through a comprehensive total rewards strategy that includes competitive base salary, annual incentive awards for eligible employees and health, welfare and retirement benefits designed to support physical, financial, and emotional/social well-being. This position may also be eligible for additional compensation, such as an incentive program, with the amount of any bonus/awards subject to the terms and conditions of the applicable incentive plan(s). A summary of the benefits offered for this position can be found here https://seo.nlx.org/southernco/pdf/SOCO-Benefits.pdf. Additional and specific details about total compensation and benets will also be provided during the hiring process.


Southern Company is an equal opportunity employer where an applicant's qualifications are considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other basis prohibited by law.

Mississippi Power

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