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Entry Level Economic Development Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Marshall University

Research Associate

Huntington, WV · On-site

$40K/yr

We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Entry-Level Brownfields Professional to support a ... Experience with economic development in small communities and on brownfield properties.

AmeriCorps

NEO SKILL CORPS

Cleveland, OH · On-site

... entry level employees with direct service in financial literacy training and basic skills ... Community Outreach , Community and Economic Development , Education . Skills : Leadership ...

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

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level economic development in the United States is $67,805.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,500.00 and $79,000.00 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 to start a career in economic development?

To start a career in economic development, gaining a bachelor's degree in economics, public policy, or a related field is essential. Internships or entry-level positions in government agencies, non-profits, or economic development organizations help build relevant experience, along with developing skills in data analysis, project management, and community engagement.

What is an Entry Level Economic Development job?

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.

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Entry Level Economic Development jobs near you
Research Associate

Research Associate

Marshall University

Huntington, WV

$40K/yr

Other

Posted 5 days ago

Marshall University rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 21 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

416th of 535 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Position Information
Banner Position Number R10146 Position Title Research Associate Classification Title MURC-Misc Other Technicians Department Environmental Center - RC1520 Job Description
The WV Brownfields Assistance Center at Marshall University, a program of the Center for Environmental, Geotechnical and Applied Sciences (CEGAS) at Marshall University, has an opening for a Research Associate. We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Entry-Level Brownfields Professional to support a variety of brownfield redevelopment and environmental assessment projects. This is an excellent opportunity for a recent graduate or early-career professional looking to build experience in the environmental field, specifically with site reuse, remediation, and community revitalization projects. The ideal candidate will work collaboratively with technical staff, municipal clients, and community partners to assist in moving brownfield sites through the assessment and reuse process.
This position will also include assistance as needed to CEGAS and other university entities, including the Appalachian Resiliency Center. The person hired for this position will work throughout WV and the Appalachian region in redevelopment of brownfields, community, county and regional economic development and resiliency initiatives. Reporting to the WV Brownfields Assistance Center Director, the Research Associate will assist with research on multiple site-specific projects throughout the state with economic development components related to brownfields while also providing project research assistance to CEGAS and Appalachian Resiliency Center projects that will include rural community economic development and resiliency, county-wide economic endeavors, and region-based economic development activities. The position will also include direct interaction with project managers and will contribute to outreach and educational service efforts, including conferences, webinars, and training events.
Provide input and project research assistance on multiple site-specific brownfield projects and activities throughout WV with emphasis on economic development, community vibrancy and resiliency
Contribute to the mission and vision of the organization through developing and managing client relationships and research projects for the WV Brownfields Assistance Center and its partner organizations
Collect and analyze relevant data; conduct research; write, prepare and edit documents, provide grant writing assistance; and present findings to various audiences
Participate in business development activities including composing and/or reviewing proposals for clients, responses to requests for proposals and grant opportunities, meeting with potential clients and preparing informational materials
Day-to-day interaction / involvement with WV Brownfields Assistance Center Staff, CEGAS staff, and Appalachian Resiliency Center staff to initiate and move projects, initiatives and activities forward
Local community and regional-based outreach, education, research and related data compilation on brownfields, resiliency, and economic development opportunities, including site and community reviews / reconnaissance to compile property and community profile data
Research on latest economic development and community resiliency successes, trends, innovations and efforts that may be utilized across WV and the region
Manage and participate in brownfields and other related conferences, webinars, and training events
Reports to WVBAC Director on activities, efforts and needs on a regular and timely basis
Location MU - Marshall University Salary Range $40,000 Salary is commensurate with education, experience and internal equity
Required Qualifications
Education
  • Bachelor's degree in science or business field
Experience
  • Minimum of one year of experience in a general science or business field, with contributions that focus on environmental assessment / remediation, community-based economic development, community resiliency, and/or related field.
  • Experience with Microsoft Office products (Excel, Word, Outlook, etc.)

Preferred Qualifications
Education
  • Master's degree in a science or business field

Experience
  • More than one year of experience in rural and small community economic development planning, brownfields initiatives, community resiliency initiatives, and/or related fields.
  • Experience with geospatial software.
  • Experience with economic development in small communities and on brownfield properties.
  • Experience with grant writing for federal, state, and/or private funds.

Posting Detail Information
Posting Number MR0860 Open Date 05/05/2026 Close Date Open Until Filled Yes Special Instructions Summary
The search committee requests that two reference letters  be submitted with your application. Please enter your references' information in the Reference Letter Submission section of the application. Your references will be notified via email to submit their reference letters to the search committee in our Applicant Tracking system.

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