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Economic Development Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Oak Park

Economic Vitality Administrator

Oak Park, IL

$17.75 - $24.50/hr

The emphasis of this role is real estate and business development centered on investment attraction ... The Economic Vitality Administrator coordinates assigned activities with other Village departments ...

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All JobsEconomic Development JobsEconomic Development Jobs in Chicago, IL

Economic Development information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$31.9K

$106.1K

$159.7K

How much do economic development jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development in Chicago, IL is $106,126.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,000.00 and $128,300.00 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 Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Economic Development jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Economic Development jobs in Chicago, IL? For Economic Development jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Economic Development jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Economic Development jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Economic Development jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Economic Development job openings:
Economic Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Economic Development job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% In-person, 5% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $106,126 per year, or $51 per hour.

Director of Community Development and Economic Development

Village of Morton Grove

Morton Grove, IL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Description:DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

VILLAGE OF MORTON GROVE DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

The Village of Morton Grove is seeking a qualified and motivated individual to serve in the newly created role of Director of Community Development and Economic Development. This position serves under the direction of the Village Administrator and is appointed by the Village President with the concurrence of the Board of Trustees. The position is responsible for advancing the economic development projects of the community while overseeing the planning, zoning, building permits, and inspections for the Village. To learn more, please review the complete employment brochure here, Community Development Director Job Ad.

The Village of Morton Grove (5.1 square miles) is a diverse suburban community (pop. 25,297) that offers hometown charm and has been featured as one of the best places to live in Illinois. The Village is close to downtown Chicago, O’Hare Airport, Interstates 94 and 294 and is serviced by Metra trains and Pace buses. The Village has outstanding restaurants and shops and a balance of residential, retail, and commercial properties that provide diverse offerings to its residents. Almost 20% of the Village encompasses the Cook County Forest Preserve allowing residents to take advantage of many biking and hiking trails, golf courses, and parks. Morton Grove is described as an “Incredibly Close. Amazingly Open” community of neighbors that enjoys living in Morton Grove and care about each other.

The Village of Morton Grove is seeking an individual to serve in the newly created role of Director of Community Development and Economic Development to oversee the current functions of the Community Development and Building and Inspection Divisions. The Community Development Department includes five full-time staff members and contractual staff for health and building inspections. The Department serves as the liaison for several Commissions including the Economic Development Commission, Plan Commission / Zoning Board of Appeals, and Appearance Commission.

Requirements:

To address operational needs, the Village is creating the position of Director of Community Development and Economic Development to oversee current divisions of Community Development and Building and Inspection Services. The position directs, supervises, and coordinates the administration of Planning, Permitting, and Inspection Services. The position also serves as a Department Director is expected to coordinate with their fellow Department Directors to coordinate resources and projects efficiently and effectively. The position is responsible for drafting and administering the Budgets for the Department and the Village’s TIF Districts.

The responsibilities of the position include:

  • Provides technical support and/or guidance for development plans and projects, initiates and directs the conduct of special studies and projects in such areas as annexation, zoning, geographic and demographic base file development and analysis, market research, open space, expansion strategy, building, and inspections, etc.
  • Confers with public agencies, private organizations and individuals regarding projects and Village planning requirements; speaks before and develops planning interests of civic and citizen associations and interest groups.
    Acts as liaison to the Planning Commission/Zoning Board of Appeals, Appearance Commission, and the Economic Development Commission (EDC) and prepare associated materials in support of these public bodies.
    Oversees all building construction activities to ensure that building permits and occupancy permits are issued in accordance with the Village Code.
  • Create and develop brochures, flyers, web pages and/or related marketing and promotional materials which will help in promoting real estate and/or development within the Village in support of economic development.
  • Monitor and identify trends in the marketplace, to target general groups or types of businesses, or industries, which may be considering relocating in this area. Solicit individual businesses or industries to determine their interest in suitable sites within the community. Assist interested companies from initial contact for site selection purposes through project completion.
  • Develop and maintain a suitable inventory of available commercial and industrial sites and space within existing structures which will be shared on a regular basis with the commercial real estate and developer community; establish ties with existing commercial/office/industrial property owners and leasing agents to provide them with assistance and marketing support.
  • Administer existing and new Tax Increment Financing (TIF) Districts when created to insure compliance with all statutory requirements and to maximize the potential success of the district’s mission.
  • Advises the Village Administrator and Board of Trustees on enforcement of building, life safety, environmental, and health codes.
  • Oversees all staff within Community Development and the Building and Inspections Departments to ensure routine and special assignments of the Village are completed.
  • Review and make recommendations regarding the use of other available statutory economic development tools such as the establishment of special taxing districts and business development districts under circumstances appropriate for the use of those redevelopment tools.
  • Coordinates all project reviews and short- and long-range planning with Village departments and other local, State and Federal agencies. Supervises various work project groups and collects the planning input of the various Village departments