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Economic Development Jobs in West Virginia (NOW HIRING)

The Edventure Group

Executive Director

Beckley, WV · On-site

$120 - $160/hr

The New River Gorge Regional Development Authority (NRGRDA) seeks a visionary, entrepreneurial, and experienced Executive Director to lead West Virginia's most prominent regional economic development ...

CITY OF WHEELING

Center Market Manager

Wheeling, WV · On-site

Is responsible for promoting the City's efforts toward economic development relating to business recruitment, job creation, retention and expansion, and new business and industry development. Will ...

AmeriCorps

WV's Promise Youth Alliance Inc

Washington, WV · On-site

$16.75 - $20.50/hr

Community Outreach , Education , Community and Economic Development , Children/Youth , Hunger , Health . Skills : Recruitment , Public Speaking , Writing/Editing , Team Work , Conflict Resolution ...

SteppingStones

President & CEO

Morgantown, WV · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

The ideal candidate is a strategic and results-driven leader with substantial experience in economic development, chamber leadership, regional development, workforce development, higher education ...

West Virginia

Economic Service Worker

Charleston, WV

$35K - $61K/yr

... professional development assistance, and performance feedback. Employees also receive a full ... Economic Service Workers play a central role within the Unit by processing applications ...

West Virginia

Economic Service Worker

Charleston, WV

$35K - $61K/yr

... development to support long-term career growth. Employees also receive a full benefits package that ... Economic Service Workers play a central role within the Bureau by processing applications ...

West Virginia

Economic Service Worker Trainee

Charleston, WV · On-site

$30K - $51K/yr

... development to support long-term career growth. Employees also receive a full benefits package that ... Economic Service Worker Trainees play a central role within the Bureau by learning to processing ...

NorthWest Arkansas Community College

$70K/yr

Reporting closely to the Executive Director of Workforce & Economic Development, the Director partners on strategic workforce initiatives and industry relationships while owning execution: where ...

Nwacc

$70K/yr

Reporting closely to the Executive Director of Workforce & Economic Development, the Director partners on strategic workforce initiatives and industry relationships while owning execution: where ...

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Economic Development information

See West Virginia salary details

$24K

$79.8K

$120K

How much do economic development jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development in West Virginia is $79,755.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,100.00 and $96,400.00 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 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 West Virginia?

The most popular types of Economic Development jobs in West Virginia are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in West Virginia are hiring for Economic Development jobs?

Cities in West Virginia with the most Economic Development job openings:

Economic Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Economic Development job openings in West Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,755 per year, or $38.3 per hour.

Executive Director

Beckley, WV • On-site

The Edventure Group
Education Programs Administration • 1 - 10 employees
Learn more about The Edventure Groupexternal

$120 - $160/hr

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Summary:

The New River Gorge Regional Development Authority (NRGRDA) seeks a visionary, entrepreneurial, and experienced Executive Director to lead West Virginia’s most prominent regional economic development organization. The Executive Director is responsible for strategic leadership, organizational management, resource development, partnership cultivation, financial health and regional economic advancement across Fayette, Nicholas, Raleigh, and Summers Counties. This role requires strong communication and leadership skills, exceptional analytical abilities, innovative problem-solving and a willingness to take initiative to deliver exceptional service to businesses, local governments, and communities in the four-county region.

Primary Responsibilities:
  • Develop and implement the organization’s strategic vision in alignment with board priorities.
  • Identify and pursue opportunities for regional economic development, innovation, and strategic partnerships.
  • Serve as the primary liaison between the staff and the NRGRDA Board of Directors.
  • Represent NRGRDA at the local, state, and federal levels on matters of economic development and policy
  • Cultivate relationships with public officials, private industry partners, nonprofit entities, investors, lenders, and philanthropic foundations.
  • Act as the public face and principal spokesperson of NRGRDA through speaking engagements, media interviews, and stakeholder convenings.
  • Lead initiatives in infrastructure development, workforce readiness, and site preparation.
  • Support development and implementation of catalytic projects involving industrial sites, infrastructure, tourism assets, downtown revitalization, and entrepreneurship initiatives.
  • Provide project guidance to staff, contractors, consultants, and partner organizations
  • Ensure day-to-day operations of the organization align with the mission and comply with regulations.
  • Facilitate cross-agency collaboration, particularly with regional stakeholders.
  • Maintain a high-performance culture focused on measurable outcomes and regional impact.
  • Identify, pursue, and secure federal, state, philanthropic, and private funding opportunities.
  • Ensure financial integrity through sound management of resources and compliance with funding guidelines.
  • Oversee organizational budgeting, financial management, compliance, auditing, and reporting requirements.
  • Create a sustainable revenue growth strategy.
Requirements:
  • Bachelor’s degree in Economic Development, Business, Public Administration, Planning, Finance, or related field. Master’s degree preferred.
  • Progressively responsible leadership experience in economic and community development, business development, nonprofit management, public administration or a related field.
  • Understanding of regional economic development authorities, industrial site development, and entrepreneurial ecosystems. Experience preferred.
  • Proven experience generating new revenue and building sustainable funding models.
  • Experience managing programs, budgets, grants, staff, projects and working with external stakeholders.
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