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Economic Development Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

Varsity Tutors

AP Human Geography Tutor

Providence, RI · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... and economic development. Ability to explain demographic transition model, Ravenstein migration laws, and von Thunen model while preparing students for the AP Human Geography examination.

Cityyear

Development Director

Providence, RI · Hybrid

Hybrid On-Site/Remote Position Overview The Director of Development provides strategic leadership for City Year Rhode Island's comprehensive fundraising program, driving philanthropic revenue growth ...

City Year

Development Director

Providence, RI · On-site

Hybrid On-Site/Remote Position Overview The Director of Development provides strategic leadership for City Year Rhode Island's comprehensive fundraising program, driving philanthropic revenue growth ...

City Year

Development Director

Providence, RI · On-site

$120 - $190/hr

The Director of Development is responsible for leading and executing City Year Rhode Island's comprehensive fundraising strategy to advance the organization's mission and long-term financial ...

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All JobsEconomic Development JobsEconomic Development Jobs in Rhode Island

Economic Development information

See Rhode Island salary details

$30.4K

$100.9K

$151.8K

How much do economic development jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development in Rhode Island is $100,889.00, 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 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 Rhode Island? The most popular types of Economic Development jobs in Rhode Island are:
What are popular job titles related to Economic Development jobs in Rhode Island? For Economic Development jobs in Rhode Island, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Economic Development jobs in Rhode Island look for? The top searched job categories for Economic Development jobs in Rhode Island are:
What cities in Rhode Island are hiring for Economic Development jobs? Cities in Rhode Island with the most Economic Development job openings:
Economic Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Economic Development job openings in Rhode Island as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,889 per year, or $48.5 per hour.

Business Development Director

Dorcas International

Providence, RI • Hybrid

$100K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Business Development Director - Do you thrive on building relationships with key stakeholders while developing and executing strategies to facilitate business growth? If so, perhaps Dorcas International is the place for you.

With an ever passionate and dedicated team of diverse professionals, Dorcas International Institute of Rhode Island strives to create a welcoming environment for all, working to empower the most vulnerable. For more than 100 years, we have worked to meet our clients where they are by providing wraparound services to help those seeking to overcome educational, cultural, economic, and language barriers. A non-profit 501(c)(3), Dorcas International offers adult education, language learning, job training, employment services, citizenship and immigration services, case management, clothing and household needs, and more.

As our Business Development Director, you will play a critical role in shaping and executing the company's growth strategy, identifying new business opportunities, and strengthening relationships with key stakeholders. Through strategic, results-oriented leadership, the Business Development Director will drive revenue growth, expand market presence, and build high-impact partnerships.

The Candidate will be responsible for:

  • Developing and executing a comprehensive business development strategy aligned with agency goals
  • Identifying, evaluating, and pursuing new markets, partnerships, and revenue opportunities
  • Analyzing market trends, competitive landscape, and financial performance to inform strategy
  • Establishing and tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure growth and ROI
  • Building and maintaining a robust pipeline of prospective clients and strategic partners
  • Developing and implementing targeted sales strategies to expand the customer base
  • Leading negotiations and closing complex, high-value deals. Preparing and delivering compelling presentations, proposals, and contracts
  • Cultivating and maintaining strong relationships with clients, partners, and industry stakeholders
  • Building executive-level partnerships to support long-term growth
  • Representing the company at industry events, conferences, and networking opportunities
  • Leading, mentoring, and scaling a high-performing business development team
  • Collaborating with executive leadership (CEO, CAO, and CFO) and cross-functional teams (Marketing, Product, Operations) to align initiatives
  • Driving cross-functional projects that support organizational growth objectives
  • Monitoring sales performance metrics and provide regular updates to leadership
  • Continuously refining processes to improve efficiency and outcomes


The candidate should have the following:

  • Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Marketing, or a related field, MBA preferred
  • Proven experience in business development, sales, or a similar role
  • Eight to twelve years of business development, sales, or strategic planning experience
  • Minimum of five years of leadership and supervisory experience
  • Proven success in leading growth initiatives and closing high-value deals
  • Exceptional leadership presence and team management capabilities
  • Exceptional communication, negotiation, and executive presence
  • Experience working with senior stakeholders and C-level executives
  • Strong financial and analytical acumen
  • Strong understanding of sales processes and customer relationship management (CRM) tools
  • Excellent communication, negotiation, and presentation skills
  • Ability to interpret market data and translate insights into actionable strategies
  • Self-motivated with a results-driven approach
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Experience in the interpreting, translation, and entrepreneurship industry.
  • Strong networking and relationship-building abilities
  • Strategic thinking and problem-solving skills
  • Time management and organizational skills
  • Familiarity with digital marketing and lead generation tools


Why should you apply?

  • Generous employer-paid health & dental benefits
  • Generous paid vacation, sick days, and personal leave in addition to 13 paid holidays
  • 403b retirement plan with employer contribution and life insurance
  • Full-Time: 37.5 hours/week; onsite with possible hybrid schedule
  • Salary Range: $100,000 - $120,000 (commensurate with experience)

Apply