Economic Development Planner Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of global economies, the focus on Economic Development Planners has never been sharper.

As economies evolve and expand, there is a growing demand for strategic minds who can plan, implement, and secure our economic development projects.

But let’s delve deeper: What is truly expected from an Economic Development Planner?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker aiming to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager detailing the perfect candidate,
• Or just fascinated by the intricacies of economic planning,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Economic Development Planner job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive in.

Economic Development Planner Duties and Responsibilities

Economic Development Planners work on strategic plans and initiatives to foster economic growth and development in specific areas or communities.

They use their knowledge of economic and urban planning, market trends, and data analysis to make informed decisions and offer solutions for local economies.

Economic Development Planners have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Analyze and interpret economic data and market trends
• Develop and implement strategic plans for economic development
• Engage with local businesses, stakeholders, and community members to understand their needs and concerns
• Advise policymakers and local government officials on economic development issues and strategies
• Identify funding sources, write grant applications, and manage awarded funds
• Collaborate with urban planners and other professionals to ensure integrated strategies for community development
• Measure the effectiveness of economic development projects and initiatives
• Conduct research and prepare reports on economic and employment trends
• Create and deliver presentations to stakeholders, community groups, and government officials
• Promote local businesses and attractions to increase tourism and economic activity

 

Economic Development Planner Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Economic Development Planner to join our team.

The ideal candidate will be responsible for creating and implementing economic development strategies, conducting research, and analyzing economic data.

The planner will also work to promote community development initiatives and stimulate economic growth.

Our ideal candidate is someone with strong analytical skills, a deep understanding of economic theory, and proven experience in economic planning.

 

Responsibilities

• Design and implement economic development plans and programs
• Analyze economic data and trends to identify opportunities for economic growth
• Develop strategies to attract businesses and investors to the area
• Work with government officials and community leaders to promote economic development initiatives
• Ensure the compatibility of economic development plans with sustainable development and environmental protection goals
• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of economic development programs and initiatives
• Prepare reports and presentations on economic development activities
• Attend community meetings and public forums to share information about economic development plans

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience in economic development planning or a related field
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Knowledge of economic theory and planning principles
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Familiarity with statistical analysis software
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Master’s degree in Urban Planning, Economics, or a related field

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Opportunities for professional development
• Flexible work schedule

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Economic Development Planner
• Work Environment: Office setting with some local travel for meetings and site visits.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Economic Development Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $75,000 minimum to $120,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Economic Development Planner Do?

Economic Development Planners typically work for local, state, or national governments, planning agencies, consulting firms, or economic development organizations.

They can also operate as independent contractors providing professional planning services to different entities.

Their main role is to design, implement, and manage economic development plans and programs to promote and enhance the economic growth of a particular region or community.

They conduct economic and demographic research to identify trends, assess economic conditions, and analyze the potential impacts of proposed development projects.

Economic Development Planners facilitate community engagement in the development process, identify funding sources for development programs, and prepare grant applications to secure those funds.

They work closely with public officials, community leaders, business owners, and other stakeholders to understand their needs and concerns, and incorporate their input into development plans.

They also monitor the progress of development projects and programs, evaluate their effectiveness in promoting economic development, and make necessary adjustments to improve their outcomes.

In the event of economic downturns, they play a crucial role in devising strategies and initiatives to stimulate economic recovery.

Their job is not only to foster economic growth, but also to ensure that such growth is sustainable and benefits all members of the community, contributing to the overall improvement of their quality of life.

 

Economic Development Planner Qualifications and Skills

Economic Development Planners are instrumental in promoting the growth and development of a city or region’s economy.

Some critical skills and qualifications include:

• An in-depth understanding of economic concepts and theories to analyze economic data and forecast trends.
• Strong analytical skills to assess the economic conditions of a region and develop strategies that promote economic growth.
• Strategic planning skills to devise long-term economic plans and ensure their successful execution.
• Excellent interpersonal skills to work collaboratively with various stakeholders including government officials, community leaders, and businesses.
• Strong communication skills to present economic plans, reports, and findings to diverse audiences, including policy makers, businesses, and the public.
• Problem-solving skills to tackle economic challenges and devise appropriate solutions to promote economic growth and development.
• Knowledge of funding sources, economic incentives, and regulatory processes that influence economic development.
• Experience with software used in economic planning and analysis such as GIS (Geographic Information Systems), econometric modeling tools, and statistical software.

 

Economic Development Planner Experience Requirements

Entry-level Economic Development Planners may have 1 to 3 years of experience, often obtained through internships or part-time roles within city or regional planning departments.

They may also gain valuable experience in related roles such as Urban Planner, Economic Analyst, or Community Development Associate.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience are typically expected to have developed a strong understanding of economic growth strategies, land use policies, and community planning.

They may also have experience in project management, grant writing, and community outreach.

Those with more than 5 years of experience are usually considered for senior planner positions.

They are expected to have a deep understanding of local and regional economic trends, and experience in the development and implementation of strategic plans.

They may have leadership experience, and have a proven track record in managing complex projects and developing successful economic initiatives.

Furthermore, many employers require Economic Development Planners to hold a master’s degree in urban planning, public policy, or a related field.

In addition to formal education, certification as an Economic Development Professional or similar can be beneficial.

 

Economic Development Planner Education and Training Requirements

To become an Economic Development Planner, a candidate typically needs a bachelor’s degree in economics, urban planning, public policy, or a related field.

This degree should provide the candidate with a foundation in economic theory, data analysis, and policy formulation.

In addition to the bachelor’s degree, some positions may require a master’s degree in urban planning, economic development, or a similar field.

This advanced degree offers more specialized knowledge in areas such as economic forecasting, land use planning, and project management.

Familiarity with Geographic Information System (GIS) software and other data visualization tools can be beneficial for Economic Development Planners.

These tools can help planners analyze economic trends, forecast potential development scenarios, and present their findings in a clear, understandable manner.

Furthermore, many Economic Development Planners choose to become certified by professional organizations, such as the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP).

While not always required, this certification indicates a planner’s commitment to professional excellence and ongoing learning.

Finally, practical experience in economic development, whether through internships, volunteering, or previous employment, can be advantageous.

This experience can help planners understand the practical implications of their work and improve their ability to develop effective, realistic plans.

 

Economic Development Planner Salary Expectations

An Economic Development Planner earns an average salary of $67,780 (USD) per year.

The actual compensation can fluctuate depending on factors such as experience, level of education, the specific region they work in, and the organization they are employed by.

 

Economic Development Planner Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Economic Development Planner need?

Economic Development Planners should have a solid understanding of economic and community development principles.

They must possess excellent analytical skills to review and interpret economic data, and strong communication skills to present findings to stakeholders.

They should also have strategic planning skills to develop and implement economic development plans.

 

Do Economic Development Planners need a degree?

Most Economic Development Planners hold a bachelor’s degree in economics, urban planning, public administration, or a related field.

Many employers prefer candidates with a master’s degree.

It’s also desirable for Economic Development Planners to have relevant professional certifications.

 

What should you look for in an Economic Development Planner resume?

An ideal Economic Development Planner candidate should have a degree in a relevant field, and experience in planning, implementing, and overseeing economic development programs.

Look for knowledge of economic data analysis, community development principles, and policy development.

Experience with grant writing and budget management can also be a plus.

 

What qualities make a good Economic Development Planner?

A good Economic Development Planner is analytical, able to interpret complex economic data and use it to make strategic decisions.

They are also adaptable, able to adjust plans as economic conditions change.

Effective communication is important, as they need to be able to explain complex economic concepts to stakeholders.

Finally, they are strategic thinkers, able to develop and implement economic development plans that benefit their communities.

 

What does an Economic Development Planner’s day-to-day look like?

A typical day for an Economic Development Planner may involve researching and analyzing economic data, meeting with stakeholders to discuss economic development plans, and working on grant applications to fund these plans.

They might also spend time monitoring and evaluating the progress of current economic development initiatives, and adjusting these plans as needed.

 

Is it challenging to hire Economic Development Planners?

Hiring Economic Development Planners can be challenging due to the specialized knowledge and skills required for the role.

Candidates not only need a strong background in economics, but also experience in planning and executing economic development initiatives.

Offering competitive salaries and opportunities for professional development can attract highly qualified candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it!

Today, we’ve unveiled the true essence of an economic development planner.

Surprised?

It’s not just about crunching numbers.

It’s about shaping communities, one strategic plan at a time.

With our reliable economic development planner job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to make your mark.

But why limit yourself?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your key to creating meticulously detailed listings or refining your resume to excellence.

Remember:

Every strategic plan contributes to the larger vision.

Let’s shape those communities. Together.

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