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Economic Development Jobs in Kalamazoo, MI (NOW HIRING)

Emphasizes analytical rigor and connects economic theory to real-world policy debates, development challenges, and business strategy. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction: Familiar with ...

Emphasizes scientific inquiry and connects agricultural science to food security, climate change adaptation, and rural economic development. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction: Familiar ...

... and economic development. Ability to explain demographic transition model, Ravenstein migration laws, and von Thunen model while preparing students for the AP Human Geography examination.

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Economic Development information

See Kalamazoo, MI salary details

$29.2K

$97.2K

$146.2K

How much do economic development jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development in Kalamazoo, MI is $97,190.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,900.00 and $117,500.00 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 Kalamazoo, MI?

The most popular types of Economic Development jobs in Kalamazoo, MI are:

What are popular job titles related to Economic Development jobs in Kalamazoo, MI?

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

What job categories do people searching Economic Development jobs in Kalamazoo, MI look for?

The top searched job categories for Economic Development jobs in Kalamazoo, MI are:

What cities near Kalamazoo, MI are hiring for Economic Development jobs?

Cities near Kalamazoo, MI with the most Economic Development job openings:

Infographic showing various Economic Development job openings in Kalamazoo, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,603 per year, or $46.9 per hour.

Fund Development Specialist - Kalamazoo

Girl Scouts Heart of Michigan

Kalamazoo, MI • On-site

$17.11/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Develop and maintain relationships with donors, volunteers, and community leaders to support fundraising efforts.

  • Make phone calls to set up meetings with corporate, individual, prospective, and lapsed donors, and meet with donors to deliver the Girl Scout mission and secure donations.

  • Maintain donor information in CRM (Donor Perfect) and assist with developing fund development plans, processes, and procedures.


Job description


Position Summary
Join our Girl Scouts Heart of Michigan (GSHOM) friendly and exciting Fund Development team. We want a highly motivated person to join our team as we work to ensure all girls gain courage, confidence, and character! Girl Scouts Heart of Michigan is the preeminent leadership development organization for girls in the nation.
In this position, you will be raising funds in multiple counties including corporate donors and individual donors. This position will coordinate fundraising efforts while cultivating and stewarding corporate/individual donors. You will be responsible for working with current donors, lapsed donors, and prospective donors. The Fund Development Specialist will provide input and actively participate in goals and objectives.
Essential Functions
  • Develop and maintain strong relationships with donors, volunteers, and community leaders to support the growth of Girl Scouts Heart of Michigan.
  • Phone calls to set up donor meetings with corporate and individual donors.
  • Phone calls to prospective donors (cold calls), current donors, and lapsed donors.
  • Meet with corporate and individual donors. During these meetings, the candidate will be delivering the Girl Scout mission which will result in a donation.
  • Maintain donor information in CRM (Donor Perfect).
  • Assist with the development of all fund development plans, processes, and procedures.
  • Other duties assigned.
Preferred Competencies
  • Strong interpersonal and written skills with the goal of being persuasive.
  • Exceptional networking and donor relations skills.
  • Proven ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
  • Attention to details.Proven to be organized and exhibit follow-through on tasks and goals.
  • Strong computer skills.
  • Ability to identify and analyze fundraising opportunities.

Organizational Values
  • Integrity: our people are hardworking, honest, effective communicators, and take responsibility for actions and outcomes, even when no one’s watching.  
  • Positive Mindset amp; Attitude: our people choose to perceive and react through a lens of empathy, enthusiasm, curiosity, and helpfulness while being passionate, solution-oriented, service-minded, and driving towards goals. 
  • Unquestionable Excellence: our people actively take initiative to fulfill our mission and are willing to work hard to bring our vision to life through resilience, determination, inspiration, personal growth and continuous learning. 
  • Mission Driven: our people are inclusive and care deeply about girl development. in partnership with stakeholders throughout the organization, they utilize strategic planning and patience to move strategy and the mission forward. 
  • Collaborative Changemaker: our people are intentionally present and forward thinkers dedicated to inspiring others and sharing skills through mentoring, service leadership, practicing radical candor, taking risks, intentional youth development, who are open to change and feedback.
Work Schedule
  • Full-time position working at least 40 hours per week.
  • More hours may be required during peak seasons.
  • Position may require multiple evenings and occasional weekend work.
  • Benefits
  • Medical, Dental, Vision
  • Life
  • Disability
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • 403(b)
  • Vacation
  • Sick
  • Personal Leave
  • Holiday Pay
  • Mileage Reimbursement
Equal Employment Opportunities Statement
Girl Scouts Heart of Michigan provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, religion, age, disability, gender identity, results of genetic testing, or service in the military. Equal employment opportunity applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leave of absence, compensation, and training.
Other Duties
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
Girl Scouts Heart of Michigan is an Equal Opportunity Employer.