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Economic Development Jobs in New Mexico (NOW HIRING)

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

Build, cultivate, and maintain strong relationships with employers, industry leaders, community organizations, and economic development partners, serving as a primary point of contact and ensuring a ...

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Economic Development information

See New Mexico salary details

$30K

$99.8K

$150.2K

How much do economic development jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development in New Mexico is $99,834.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,000.00 and $120,600.00 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 New Mexico?

The most popular types of Economic Development jobs in New Mexico are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in New Mexico are hiring for Economic Development jobs?

Cities in New Mexico with the most Economic Development job openings:

Infographic showing various Economic Development job openings in New Mexico as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,834 per year, or $48 per hour.

Vice President for Research, Creative Activity, and Economic Development

SRA International

Las Cruces, NM • On-site

$180 - $240/hr

Other

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Vice President for Research, Creative Activity, and Economic Development Overview

New Mexico State University (NMSU) invites nominations and applications for the role of Vice President for Research, Creativity and Economic Development (VPRCED). Reporting to the President, the VPRCED serves as the University's Chief Research Officer, guiding research efforts across a broad portfolio, including collaborative and interdisciplinary projects, with FY24 research expenditures of $143 million. The next VPRCED will leverage and enhance NMSU's 2025 R1 designation to grow the research enterprise, enhance national and global visibility, and support student success through innovation within the university's land‑grant and space‑grant missions.

Responsibilities
  • Work closely with academic and community colleges to integrate and enhance research activities for university-wide strategic growth.
  • Provide leadership for acquiring research funding, planning and developing academic research space, and overseeing research commercialization and incubation of new companies.
  • Recruit corporate research partners and coordinate public outreach to expand industry-funded research initiatives.
  • Oversee a research enterprise where 58% of funding comes from federal agencies, and lead efforts to align with federal funding priorities and trends.
  • Leverage strategic partnerships with national laboratories and industry partners such as Los Alamos, Sandia, the Air Force Research Laboratory, White Sands Missile Range, Spaceport America, and the NASA White Sands Test Facility.
  • Serve as the lead institution for the National Space Grant College and Fellowship Program in New Mexico and provide NASA resources through the statewide NM Space Grant Consortium.
  • Champion agricultural research, food security, sustainability, rural development, and water‑related research to maintain national leadership.
  • Drive technology commercialization, secure industry partnerships, and scale university‑based intellectual property portfolios.
  • Lead research initiatives in cybersecurity, advanced manufacturing, biosciences, radionuclide research, and mechanical and aerospace engineering.
Qualifications
  • Extensive, demonstrated leadership experience managing large research ecosystems at a major institution.
  • Proven track record in securing federal and industry research funding and successfully scaling intellectual property and technology transfer efforts.
  • Experience in scaling industry‑funded research initiatives and leading commercialization strategies.
  • Earned terminal degree with extensive scholarly, professional, and leadership achievements.
Equal Employment Opportunity

New Mexico State University (NMSU) does not discriminate on the basis of age, ancestry, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, retaliation, serious medical condition, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, spousal affiliation or protected veteran status in its programs and activities, including admissions, as required by state and federal law and University policy. NMSU's Office of Institutional Equity is designated as the office that receives and processes internal complaints of unlawful discrimination, harassment, retaliation, and sexual misconduct on behalf of NMSU.

New Mexico State University (n) has designated as the Title IX Coordinator, responsible for ensuring compliance with Title IX and other state and federal laws addressing sexual and gender‑based harassment, including sexual assault, dating and domestic violence, stalking, and other forms of sexual misconduct based on sex, gender, sexual orientation, or gender identity. NMSU recognizes that individuals with disabilities are entitled to access, support, and, when appropriate, reasonable accommodation.

William Nutt is also assigned to coordinate compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Section 504, and other state and federal laws that prohibit discrimination on the basis of disability in admission, treatment, and/or access to its programs and activities.

Inquiries may be directed to the Executive Director, Title IX and Section 504 Coordinator, Office of Institutional Equity, P.O. Box 30001, E. 1130 University Avenue, Las Cruces, NM 88003; 575.646.3635; 575.646.7802 (TTY) equity@nmsu.edu

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