Economic Development Director, Mayor's Office

The City of San Jose is hiring an Economic Development Director for the Mayor's Office. This unclassified position reports to the Mayor's Chief Policy and Intergovernmental Relations Officer. The Director is one of the Mayor's main economic ambassadors, making the case for investing in San Jose and moving employers, developers and investors from early interest to firm commitments.

What you will do

• Own the Mayor's relationships with major employers, corporate real estate executives, commercial brokers, developers, professional sports organizations, hotels, utilities, financial institutions and other investors
• Work with the Director of the Office of Economic Development and Cultural Affairs (OEDCA) on an industry-by-industry map of companies, decision-makers, opportunities and barriers
• Build a network of brokers, site selectors, bankers, venture investors and developers
• Coordinate company and investor outreach with OEDCA and the Mayor's public/private partnerships team so the city presents one strategy
• Lead policy work in the Growing our Economy focus area through the budget process to implementation

Requirements

• Experience leading major economic development, investment attraction, real estate or urban revitalization work, with established relationships across relevant industries
• A bachelor's degree in political science, public or business administration, finance, economics, real estate, public relations or a related field; a master's in public or business administration or real estate development is highly desirable

Salary $170,000 to $215,000 a year. The position is open until filled, and the city will begin reviewing applications as of November 30, 2026. Applicants answer job-specific questions in writing, and the city requires the answers to be the applicant's own work.

Apply through the City of San Jose careers site.