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Entry Level Economic Development Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Pico Rivera, CA

Planning Intern

Pico Rivera, CA · On-site

$18 - $23/hr

The Position Under the direction of the Deputy Director of Community & Economic Development or other appropriately designated staff, this position will perform entry-level work pertaining to Zoning ...

City of Pico Rivera

Planning Intern

Pico Rivera, CA

$18 - $23/hr

The Position Under the direction of the Deputy Director of Community & Economic Development or other appropriately designated staff, this position will perform entry-level work pertaining to Zoning ...

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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Entry Level Economic Development information

See salary details

$33.5K

$67.8K

$110.5K

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

As of Aug 12, 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 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.

More about Entry Level Economic Development jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Economic Development jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Economic Development job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Economic Development jobs? The most popular types of Economic Development jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Economic Development jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Economic Development jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Economic Development jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Economic Development jobs are:
Entry Level Economic Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Economic Development job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,805 per year, or $32.6 per hour.

Local Government Advisor

Gateway Area Development District

Morehead, KY • On-site

$21.54/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

The Local Government Advisor is responsible for supporting regional planning and community development initiatives through research, data analysis, and strategic planning. Key duties include preparing comprehensive and long-range plans, managing grant-funded projects, and providing guidance to local communities to advance growth and development goals.

General Duties and Responsibilities:

Planning Development and Implementation:
Involves preparing comprehensive and long-range plans, managing grant-funded projects, and providing guidance to local communities. This duty will consist of:
  • Conduct research and analyze data to support regional planning and community development initiatives within the Gateway Area Development District (GADD) region.
  • Prepare strategic and long-range plans related to multi-disciplinary regional planning for communities within the GADD region, including, but not limited to, comprehensive planning, water, wastewater and stormwater management, and economic development.
  • Organize and administer federal, state, and local grant-funded programs, including, but not limited to, Community Development Block Grant, Appalachian Regional Commission, Rural Development, and Economic Development Administration projects.
  • Provide guidance, technical assistance, and support to local governments, utilities, and special districts.
  • Identify and pursue new initiatives, funding, and grant opportunities aligned with regional development goals.
  • Collaborate with internal teams and external partners to ensure effective project implementation.
  • Monitor and evaluate projects to ensure compliance with regulations, timelines, and objectives; and.
  • Draft reports, presentations, and recommendations for regional planning efforts.

Other Duties: Involves any other tasks and technical assistance needed to support the planning and project development needs of the Gateway counties and cities.

Qualifications:

Education: 
  • Bachelor’s degree or higher in government, history, geography, business administration, public administration, or other related field required.
  • Certification and Trainings: Valid Driver’s License required. CDBG Project Administrator Certification must be acquired and maintained after hiring.
  • The employee will be expected to attend professional development trainings related to specialties.

Experience: Entry Level Position. One (1) year of related experience and/or related internship preferred.

Physical Requirements:
Sit for extended periods of time; stand and walk for extended periods of time; reach, stoop, crouch, and bend; fine motor skills; operate a vehicle; ability to lift and carry 30 pounds; and GPS field collection in urban and rural areas.

Sensory Requirements:
Sight; Hearing; Speaking.

Working Conditions:
Indoor office conditions; outdoor data collection or project site visits during various weather conditions and on various terrains; and possible wildlife/animal encounters during outdoor data collection or project site visits; requires intermittent standing, sitting, or stooping; work requires consistent use of computer and phone systems as well as other general office equipment; and frequent interruptions.

Availability and Travel:
Normal business hours; nights/weekends (special events/training/local meetings); regular travel within region and state; occasional travel outside of the state; and able to travel multiple days at a time.

Tools, Equipment, and Vehicle Use:
Standard office equipment (computers, printers, scanners, phones, etc.); fleet/personal vehicle(s); cellular/tablet device; and Trimble Geo7X / Trimble R2 GPS collection equipment.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Knowledge:
  • National Environmental Policy Act.
  • Professional Services Procurement.
  • State and federal funding programs.
  • Grant writing and project administration processes; and.
  • Local government and non-profit operations, organization, functions, and challenges.

Skills:
  • Oral and written communication.
  • Microsoft Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel).
  • Attention to detail.
  • Meeting organization and facilitation.
  • Project and budget management; and.
  • Data collection, management, interpretation, and analysis.

Abilities:
  • Be present and punctual.
  • Prioritize work and meet deadlines.
  • Work under stressful situations with patience and tact.
  • Establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, officials, and the public.
  • Teamwork.
  • Exercise initiative and judgment; and.
  • Initiate, organize, and manage planning initiatives and projects.

This position will remain open until filled.

Gateway Area Development District is an Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/D/V.