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Economic Development Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

City of Roanoke, VA

Tourism Specialist

Roanoke, VA · On-site

$84K - $134K/yr

Economic Development Opening Date: 06/29/2026 Closing Date: 7/28/2026 11:59 PM Eastern Description The City of Roanoke is seeking a Tourism Specialist to serve in the Department of Economic ...

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All JobsEconomic Development JobsEconomic Development Jobs in Virginia

Economic Development information

See Virginia salary details

$30.7K

$102.1K

$153.7K

How much do economic development jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development in Virginia is $102,137.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,800.00 and $123,400.00 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 Virginia? The most popular types of Economic Development jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Economic Development jobs in Virginia? For Economic Development jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Economic Development jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Economic Development jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Economic Development jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Economic Development job openings:
Economic Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Economic Development job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,137 per year, or $49.1 per hour.

Economic Development Specialist

City of Roanoke, Virginia

Roanoke, VA • On-site

$68K - $107K/yr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Description The City of Roanoke is seeking an Economic Development Specialist to perform professional work supporting the City's real estate and economic development initiatives. This position is responsible for managing City owned real estate assets, facilitating property transactions, administering key economic development programs, and serving as a liaison between the City, the Economic Development Authority, and the commercial real estate community. Primary Responsibilities Manage City owned property leases, license agreements, easements, and encroachments to ensure compliance with applicable agreements and City policies.

Coordinate and administer the sale and disposition of City owned real property, including working with internal departments, legal counsel, developers, and prospective purchasers. Provide staff support to the City of Roanoke Economic Development Authority (EDA), including coordinating monthly meetings, preparing agendas and supporting documentation, maintaining official records, and implementing EDA actions. Administer local and state Enterprise Zone programs, ensuring compliance with program requirements and serving as a resource to businesses and property owners.

Serve as the department's primary liaison to the commercial real estate community, developers, brokers, property owners, and other economic development stakeholders to support investment and redevelopment opportunities. Assist with business recruitment, retention, redevelopment, and other strategic economic development initiatives as assigned. Perform other related duties as assigned.

The City of Roanoke is an Equal Employment Opportunity/AA/M/F/Disability Employer. To elevate the performance of the organization, we are committed to respecting, celebrating, and embracing the collective mixture of differences and similarities between our employees as a rich tapestry. Our behaviors will demonstrate open communication, and we will seek opportunities to learn, recognizing and rewarding actions that promote acceptance while suspending judgment.

By doing this, we will foster an inclusive, open work environment that delivers excellent service and creates a more vibrant and inviting community. This is an exempt position. Typical Qualifications Education and Experience Bachelor's degree from an accredited four year college or university with major course work in real estate, business administration, economics, urban planning, public administration, or a closely related field.

A Master's degree in an appropriate field is preferred. Two or more years of progressively responsible experience in economic development, commercial real estate, property management, redevelopment, public administration, or a related field is preferred. Experience administering public programs, managing real estate transactions, negotiating agreements, or preparing state or federal grant applications is highly desirable.

An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities may be considered.

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