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Economic Development Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

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Economic Development information

See Washington, DC salary details

$35.1K

$116.6K

$175.5K

How much do economic development jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development in Washington, DC is $116,638.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $92,300.00 and $141,000.00 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 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 Washington, DC? The most popular types of Economic Development jobs in Washington, DC are:
What are popular job titles related to Economic Development jobs in Washington, DC? For Economic Development jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Economic Development jobs in Washington, DC look for? The top searched job categories for Economic Development jobs in Washington, DC are:
Economic Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Economic Development job openings in Washington, DC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $116,681 per year, or $56.1 per hour.
Economic Development Specialist

Economic Development Specialist

City of Greenbelt

Greenbelt, MD • On-site

$26.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

JOB SUMMARY AND DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE WORK:
Assist with coordinating the economic development activities to achieve the goals and objectives of the City of Greenbelt. The work is performed under the direction of the Economic Development Manager. This position requires the employee to conduct economic research and collect data, and to establish and maintain effective working relationships with city staff; businesses and community groups; developers; county, state, and federal officials; and the general public. A significant focus of the work is in Business Retention and Expansion, working with and in support of, Greenbelt’s existing businesses. Position works 20 hours per week and can coordinate final schedule with the Economic Development Manager.
** Hourly Rate = $26.50**
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable an individual with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Update the City’s existing business list as needed.
Conduct on-site business visits with the Economic Development Manager and assist in compiling data and information from the visits.
Support the Economic Development Manager in developing and coordinating activities and strategies for business expansion and retention.
Conduct economic research, including data collection, processing, and analysis and prepare reports incorporating infographics, maps, and charts in coordination with the Economic Development Manager.
Develop and distribute comprehensive business surveys to local businesses; conduct outreach; and collect and analyze survey results.
Assist with coordinating business conferences, workshops, job fairs, and other business engagement activities and events.
Answer phone calls to the Economic Development office and answer questions or pass calls along to the Economic Development Manager as appropriate.
Attend meetings as requested and brief supervisor on results of the meetings,
Complete special projects assigned by the supervisor in support of department goals. Other duties as assigned.
MATERIAL AND EQUIPMENT USED:
Computer General Office Equipment Automobile Mobile Telephone
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABIITIES:
General understanding of economic development, community development, and local government practices.
Knowledge of:
MS Office, especially Excel.
Developing and sending out online surveys and analyzing results. Familiarity with survey tools a plus.
Performing research, compiling information, and making recommendations or presentations on findings.
All computer applications and hardware related to the performance of the essential functions of the job.
Department organization, standard operating guidelines and policies, rules, and regulations.
CRM systems a plus.
ESRI or other data mapping tools a plus.
Skill in:
Preparing clear and concise reports, correspondence, and other written materials.
Oral and written communication with a variety of public stakeholders.
Customer service and problem solving for different constituencies.
Appropriate research techniques and platforms for acquiring requested data and reports.
Event coordination, logistics, and planning.
Data collection and analysis.
Operating and maintaining all assigned equipment required to perform the essential functions of the job.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED:
Education and Experience:
High School Diploma or equivalent; if applicable at least two years of college preferred; and one to two years of progressively responsible experience; or,
Any combination of education, training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the essential functions of the job.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
Work is performed in a normal office environment with little exposure to outdoor temperatures or dirt and dust.
Work is performed on-site, in-person at the office, and will require visiting businesses and other community sites in-person regularly.
The employees’ working conditions are typically quiet.
Occasional evening and weekend working hours may be required.
Note: This class specification should not be interpreted as all-inclusive. It is intended to identify the essential functions and requirements of this job. Incumbents may be requested to perform job-related responsibilities and tasks other than those stated in this specification. Any essential function or requirement of this class will be evaluated as necessary should an incumbent/applicant be unable to perform the function or requirement due to a disability as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Reasonable accommodation for the specific disability will be made for the incumbent/applicant when possible.

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