Director of Economic Development

Position Description

Director of Economic Development is responsible for planning, developing, and administering comprehensive economic development initiatives for Harris County Precinct 2. As a subject matter expert in economic and community development, the director provides strategic guidance to advance inclusive economic growth, business development, and workforce‑aligned opportunities. The role oversees a three‑tier economic development framework that includes entrepreneurship and business start‑up education, stabilization and support of existing businesses, and attraction of new business investment to Precinct 2.

The director represents Precinct 2 in regional economic development efforts, partnerships, and advisory bodies. This position reports to the Deputy Director of Strategic Initiatives and Community Impact.

• Plans, develops, and implements economic development strategies, initiatives, and programs aligned with Precinct 2 goals and County priorities.
• Conducts research and analysis of economic trends, community needs, and best practices to inform program design and policy recommendations.
• Provides expert guidance and recommendations to Precinct leadership on economic development matters.
• Develops and oversees programs that educate residents on business formation, entrepreneurship, and small business readiness.
• Leads youth‑focused financial literacy and entrepreneurial empowerment initiatives in coordination with independent school districts (ISDs) and youth‑serving organizations.
• Coordinates workshops, technical assistance, accelerators, and mentorship programs for entrepreneurs and small businesses.
• Implements initiatives to strengthen and stabilize existing businesses, including access to capital, operational assistance, compliance readiness, and workforce resources.
• Coordinates with chambers of commerce, economic development organizations, and regional partners to promote economic opportunity.
• Monitors legislation and regulations relating to economic development, and reports findings to the appropriate impacted parties.
• Maintains strong working relationships with the general public, area businesses, clients, the media, and others.

• Bachelor’s Degree in Economics, Business Administration, Public Administration, Urban Planning, or a related field.
• Five (5) or more years of progressively responsible experience in economic development, community development, business development, or a related field.

• Knowledge of economic development principles, small business development, and entrepreneurship ecosystems.
• Knowledge of public‑sector economic development programs and funding mechanisms.
• Ability to plan, organize, and administer complex programs.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to analyze data, prepare reports, and present findings to leadership.

• Experience working with governmental entities or public‑sector economic development programs preferred.

• This is a full‑time position.
• Days and hours are typically Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
• Hours may vary based on business needs of the department and some weekend, evening hours or holidays may be required during special events.

• This job operates in both a clerical office setting and outdoors in a variety of environmental and weather conditions.
• This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets, and fax machines.
• Noise level in the work environment is usually average.

NOTE: Qualifying education, experience, knowledge, and skills must be documented on your job application. You may attach a resume to the application as supporting documentation but ONLY information stated on the application will be used for consideration. 'See Resume' will not be accepted for qualifications.

If you need special services or accommodations, please call (713) 274‑5445 or email

Employment may be contingent on passing a drug screen and meeting other standards.

Due to a high volume of applications, positions may close prior to the advertised closing date or at the discretion of the Hiring Department.

Harris County is an Equal Opportunity Employer.