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Economic Development Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

GNRC

Land Use Planner - Development Review

Nashville, TN · On-site

GNRC facilitates the development of regional plans for transportation, solid waste, economic development, and a growing list of additional issues. At the local level, GNRC provides subscription-based ...

South Cumberland Partnership

Be Seen First

Executive Director

Tracy City, TN · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Bachelor's degree in nonprofit management, marketing, economic development, business administration or related areas and a minimum of three years' experience in economic development and/or ...

Varsity Tutors

College Economics Tutor

Nashville, TN · 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 ...

Varsity Tutors

College Economics Tutor

Memphis, TN · 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 ...

Varsity Tutors

College Economics Tutor

Kingsport, TN · 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 ...

Varsity Tutors

College Economics Tutor

Chattanooga, TN · 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 ...

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All JobsEconomic Development JobsEconomic Development Jobs in Tennessee

Economic Development information

See Tennessee salary details

$28.1K

$93.5K

$140.7K

How much do economic development jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development in Tennessee is $93,503.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,000.00 and $113,000.00 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 Tennessee?

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

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

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

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

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

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Economic Development jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Economic Development job openings:

Economic Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Economic Development job openings in Tennessee as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,503 per year, or $45 per hour.

Director of Tennessee Small Business Development Center

Dyersburg, TN • On-site

The Tennessee Board of Regents
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about The Tennessee Board of Regentsexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

The Director of the Small Business Development Center provides strategic, administrative, fiscal, and operational leadership for the Tennessee Small Business Development Center (TSBDC) at Dyersburg State Community College. The Director will deliver no-cost, confidential business consulting, training, and resource navigation services to entrepreneurs and existing businesses throughout the assigned service area. The Director develops partnerships, secures resources, manages personnel, and evaluates program outcomes to advance the TSBDC mission, College priorities, and regional economic development. The Director reports to the Vice President of External Affairs.
Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Plan, implement, and evaluate programs and services consistent with the goals and objectives of the TSBDC as outlined in the Agreement for Hosting a TSBDC Service Center.
  • Refers to the TSBDC Strategic Plan to direct accomplishments.
  • Provide day-to-day operational leadership, establish procedures, and ensure effective, consistent, and customer-focused service delivery.
  • Develop internal and external resources to accomplish program objectives, including actively seeking additional funding resources, economic development partners, and local professional organizations.
  • Develop and manage the Center's annual operating budget, monitor expenditures, prepare budget projections, and maintain appropriate fiscal documentation.
  • Provide direct advice and training, or refer clients to appropriate sources as necessary.
  • Identify, pursue, and steward funding opportunities, including grants, sponsorships, and other allowable public or private resources.
  • Recruit, hire, supervise, schedule, coach, and evaluate consultants, administrative staff, contractors, and other assigned personnel.
  • Supervise center personnel, both consultants and administrative.
  • Assure daily inputs (641,1062 and 888) reports into the Center IC database as required by the TSBDC program;
  • Establish linkages with other service centers or small businesses that may provide additional resources;
  • Provide timely and accurate reports to the Lead Center per the TSBDC contract, as determined.
  • Analyze scorecards, dashboards, and performance reports; use findings, client feedback, and community needs assessments to strengthen programs and support continuous improvement.
  • Develop and execute marketing and outreach strategies that expand awareness and accessibility of TSBDC services across the assigned territory.
  • Cultivate productive relationships with chambers of commerce, SCORE, financial institutions, economic-development organizations, governmental entities, professional associations, and higher-education partners.
  • Coordinate with the TSBDC Lead Center and other service centers to share resources, address emerging needs, and support consistent network operations.
  • Support grant reviews, audits, accreditation activities, program monitoring, and other compliance responsibilities as assigned.
  • Perform other duties and participate in College, TSBDC, and community activities as assigned.

Working Conditions
Work is performed primarily in standard office and in community settings. Regular computer use, virtual meetings, public speaking, and contact with clients and partners are required. Travel within the service territory and occasional evening or weekend activities may be necessary. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals to perform essential functions.
Required Qualifications:
  • Demonstrate ability to analyze small business problems and suggest alternative actions.
  • Possess knowledge of small business functions, including planning, accounting, resource management, and general computer business applications.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication, presentation, facilitation, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to establish collaborative relationships with business, government, nonprofit, and economic-development partners.
  • Proficiency with standard business technology, database systems, productivity applications, and virtual collaboration tools

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
  • Bachelor's Degree required from a regionally accredited institution;
  • Three (3) years of small business management, workforce development/training, or business consulting experience;
  • Budget and program management experience;
  • Strong marketing and sales orientation;
  • Excellent communication skills, including public speaking;
  • Must successfully complete five (5) business counselor training modules.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Master's Degree from a regionally accredited institution.
  • Experience directing an SBDC, entrepreneurial-support program, or grant-funded community-service operation.
  • Experience with federal, state, or institutional grant compliance, reporting, and audit preparation.
  • Established relationships with regional business, government, nonprofit, or economic-development organizations.
  • Demonstrated success in developing programs, securing resources, and achieving measurable outcomes for entrepreneurs or small businesses.

Salary range: $49,763-$62,259
Dyersburg State offers a comprehensive benefits package, including but not limited to the following:
  • Vacation and Sick Leave
  • 14 paid holidays
  • Medical, dental, vision and life insurance
  • Retirement plans
  • Optional 401K and 403B Deferred Compensation Plans
  • Educational benefits for the employee and their spouse and dependents
  • State Employee Discount Program with over 900 merchants

Special Instructions to Applicants:
To be considered for this position applicant must submit an application, a resume, cover letter, and transcripts if applicable. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable for the application process; but official transcripts are required upon hire. You also must provide the contact information for a minimum of three (3) professional references.
Your skills, abilities, qualifications, and years of experience will be evaluated using only what is recorded on your application.
Incomplete applications will not be considered.
A completed satisfactory background check will be required before hire.
Dyersburg State Community College is a TBR and AA/EEO employer and does not discriminate against students, employees, or applicants for admission or employment on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, disability, age, status as a protected veteran, genetic information, or any other legally protected class with respect to all employment, programs and activities.

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