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Entry Level Economic Development Jobs in Fort Wayne, IN

Access to ongoing training/development and advancement opportunities to turn your job into a career ... Employment Type: ENTRY_LEVEL

Entry Level Economic Development information

See Fort Wayne, IN salary details

$30.6K

$62K

$101.1K

How much do entry level economic development jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level economic development in Fort Wayne, IN is $62,031.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,000.00 and $72,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the entry level economic development position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Economic Development professional, you need a basic understanding of economic principles, market research, data analysis, and typically a bachelor’s degree in economics, business, public administration, or a related field. Familiarity with data analysis software (such as Excel, GIS, or economic modeling tools) and CRM systems is an asset. Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills help you build relationships with stakeholders and adapt to varied project needs. These abilities are crucial for supporting community growth initiatives, analyzing trends, and contributing effectively to multi-disciplinary teams.

How do I get into entry level economic development?

To enter an entry-level economic development role, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in economics, public policy, urban planning, or a related field. Gaining experience through internships, volunteering, or related work in community development or government agencies can also improve job prospects; strong communication and analytical skills are essential.

What is an entry level economic development?

An Entry Level Economic Development job involves supporting initiatives that promote economic growth in a community, region, or organization. Responsibilities may include conducting research, analyzing economic data, assisting with business outreach, and supporting development programs. Entry-level professionals often work with government agencies, nonprofit organizations, or private firms to help create jobs, attract investment, and improve local economies. Strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills are essential for success in this role.

What typical projects or responsibilities will I handle as an entry level economic development professional?

As an Entry Level Economic Development professional, you’ll often assist with research and analysis of local economic trends, support grant writing or application initiatives, and help organize community outreach efforts. Your day may involve working with databases, preparing reports or presentations, and coordinating meetings with stakeholders such as local businesses, government agencies, and community organizations. You’ll likely collaborate with a team of experienced economic developers, learning the ropes and contributing to larger community improvement or business attraction projects. This hands-on experience helps build your understanding of economic development processes and sets a strong foundation for future career growth.

What are the most commonly searched types of Economic Development jobs in Fort Wayne, IN? The most popular types of Economic Development jobs in Fort Wayne, IN are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Economic Development jobs in Fort Wayne, IN look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Economic Development jobs in Fort Wayne, IN are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Economic Development job openings in Fort Wayne, IN as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,491 per year, or $30 per hour.

Student Worker

Sodexo

North Manchester, IN

$12 - $14/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Sodexo rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 1,132 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

337th of 481 rated business services


Job description

Student Worker


Location: #la-location_name

Workdays/shifts: Varying shifts, days/hours (open availability preferred). More details will be provided during the interview process.

Employment Type: Part-time

Pay Range: $12.00 - $14.00

#la-school_shift_benefit


Working with Sodexo is more than a job; it's a chance to be part of something greater because we believe our everyday actions have a big impact. You belong in a company that allows you to act with purpose and thrive in your own way. 

What You'll Do: As a Student Worker at Sodexo, you are also a pair of helping hands and an eager learner. You will work under the direct supervision of on-site Sodexo management and will serve in a role as mutually agreed upon.


Responsibilities include:

  • May work in a variety of locations and vocations around the school campus, including food service, facilities (cleaning), and offices (clerical/marketing) on client premises. 
  • Executes assigned job duties for the agreed upon role, duties could include cooking and/or serving food, clerical work, or cleaning.   
  • Assists in daily operations and may be assigned special projects
  • Attends work and shows for scheduled shift on time with satisfactory regularity
  • Other duties may be assigned and can differ among accounts, depending on business necessities and client requirements.


What You Bring:

  • Successful candidates will be team-oriented, adaptable, reliable, and nurturers of a healthy/safe working environment for all.
  • Must be a current student at the school of the work location that Sodexo is partnering with 


Link to full Job description 


What We Offer:

  • Flexible and supportive work environment, so you can be home for life's important moments.
  • Access to ongoing training/development and advancement opportunities to turn your job into a career
  • Full array of benefits that support you and your family's wellbeing, including paid time off, holidays, medical, dental, vision, tuition reimbursement, 401k, discount programs, and more. 
  • In addition to Sodexo's standard, some locations may offer additional site-specific benefits, including free "shift" meals (and/or allowances/per diems), uniforms, safety shoes, public transportation support and/or parking. 


Link to benefits summary


Overall, Sodexo strives to offer comprehensive summaries of our benefits packages and detailed descriptions of the positions candidates are applying for. However, due to the contractual nature of our business, some job duties and employee benefits may vary based on the unit/work location. We encourage you to discuss any questions about Sodexo's benefit offerings during the interview process. 


Who we are:

At Sodexo, our purpose is to create a better everyday for everyone and build a better life for all. We believe in improving the quality of life for those we serve and contributing to the economic, social, and environmental progress in the communities where we operate. Sodexo partners with clients to provide a truly memorable experience for both customers and employees alike. We do this by providing food service, catering, facilities management, and other integrated solutions worldwide. 


Our company values you for you; you will be treated fairly and with respect, and you can be yourself. You will have your ideas count and your opinions heard because we can be a stronger team when you're happy at work. This is why we embrace culture and belonging as core values, fostering an environment where all employees are valued and respected. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to individuals regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, gender identity, pregnancy, disability, sexual orientation, military status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. Should you need assistance with the online application process, please complete this form.



Employment Type: ENTRY_LEVEL

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