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Economic Development Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

GNRC develops regional plans for transportation, solid waste, economic development, environmental quality, and a growing list of additional products. At the local level, GNRC provides staffing ...

Division of Business & Economic Development Classification: Adjunct POSITION OVERVIEW Provide competent classroom instruction in the area of credentialed expertise. The instructor should have the ...

Resident Services Coordin

Nashville, TN · On-site

$14.50 - $18.50/hr

Work with project-based residents to find employment, job training and economic development 6 opportunities. * Search and inform residents of job fairs, search job openings, seek out job advancement ...

We provide a full range of customer-oriented services, including a major role in the economic development for our customers. MLGW recognizes that our greatest assets are our employees and value ...

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Economic Development information

See Tennessee salary details

$28.1K

$93.5K

$140.7K

How much do economic development jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 25, 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 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 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 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 cities in Tennessee are hiring for Economic Development jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Economic Development job openings:
Infographic showing various Economic Development job openings in Tennessee as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $93,503 per year, or $45 per hour.

Community and Regional Planning Intern

GNRC

Nashville, TN

$15 - $19.25/hr

Other

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

The Greater Nashville Regional Council (GNRC) is seeking an undergraduate or graduate intern with a background in urban and regional planning to join its Community and Regional Planning Department.GNRC develops regional plans for transportation, solid waste, economic development, environmental quality, and a growing list of additional products. At the local level, GNRC provides staffing support to county and municipal planning commissions and conducts studies or develops local comprehensive plans and zoning ordinances on a fee-for-service basis.

The selected candidate will have an opportunity to apply technical skills in planning, GIS, data analysis, and community engagement to support meaningful projects in a rapidly growing metropolitan area. The duties of the intern may include:

  • Conduct research to document local or national best practices, lessons learned on a variety of government-related topics,
  • Assist with the preparation of reports to document planning program activities and outcomes,
  • Assist with the development of community engagement tools including online surveys, stakeholder lists, promotional material, etc.,
  • Assist with logistics and preparation for a variety of stakeholder and public meetings and events across the Middle Tennessee area, and
  • Other assignments as determined by the Director of Community and Regional Planning to support outreach and engagement related to transportation and land use planning efforts spanning a variety of issues including freight and goods movement, transportation funding options, bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure, environmental quality, local comprehensive planning, etc.

Qualifications:The preferred candidate will have prior coursework or practical experience in land use planning, transportation planning, geography, public policy, or related field.

Remote Work Policy:While GNRC provides flexibility for remote/hybrid working conditions, this is not a remote position. The selected candidate will be expected to work from the GNRC office with regularity.


Travel Expectations:This position will require regular travel throughout the Middle Tennessee area. A valid driver's license and access to personal transportation is required.


About GNRC:The Greater Nashville Regional Council was established by the TN General Assembly as an association of local governments empowered to convene local and state leaders for the purposes of planning and programming state and federal investments into a range of social services and public infrastructure. GNRC serves as the region's federally-recognized Area Agency on Aging and Disability (AAAD), Economic Development District (EDD) and administers the Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) on behalf of the Nashville Area MPO Transportation Policy Board . More information is available atGNRC.org.

Position open until filled.

GNRC is an EOE, AA Employer