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Community Development Director Jobs in Waterville, ME

Town Planner

Winthrop, ME · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

... community development. This position offers an exceptional opportunity to take on a meaningful role ... Town Manager Anthony Wilson 17 Highland Avenue Winthrop, ME 04364 Questions may be directed to Town ...

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Community Development Director information

See Waterville, ME salary details

$46.9K

$129.2K

$212.6K

How much do community development director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for community development director in Waterville, ME is $129,174.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $94,300.00 and $158,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a community development director do?

A Community Development Director is responsible for planning, coordinating, and overseeing programs and initiatives that promote the growth and improvement of a community. This role often involves working with local government, businesses, and residents to develop policies related to housing, land use, economic development, and public services. The director manages staff, secures funding, and ensures that projects align with the community’s goals and regulations. Their work helps create vibrant, sustainable, and inclusive communities.

What does a community development director do?

A community development director manages and directs planning and management initiatives for a city organization or community, such as an elderly residential community. As a community development director, your job duties include working closely with community partners, such as businesses, community organizations, and the public, to develop strategies for improving economic, architectural, and community initiatives while preserving neighborhood or community cohesion. You also monitor programs and budgets for department initiatives. Qualifications for this career include a bachelor’s degree in social sciences, education, or public administration as well as several years of experience in public policy and planning and communication and leadership skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a community development director, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Community Development Director, you need strong expertise in urban planning, project management, and a relevant degree such as public administration or urban studies. Familiarity with land use regulations, GIS systems, and grant management software is typically required. Exceptional leadership, negotiation, and stakeholder engagement skills set top candidates apart in this role. These abilities are crucial for effectively guiding community initiatives, securing funding, and balancing the needs of diverse populations.

What are some common challenges a community development director faces when balancing the needs of various stakeholders?

A Community Development Director often navigates competing interests from local government, residents, businesses, and nonprofit organizations. Balancing these diverse perspectives requires strong communication, negotiation, and consensus-building skills. Directors must ensure that development projects align with community goals while adhering to regulatory requirements and budget constraints. Proactively engaging stakeholders through public meetings and transparent processes helps address concerns and fosters collaboration, though it can be time-consuming and complex.

What is the difference between Community Development Director vs Urban Planner?

AspectCommunity Development DirectorUrban Planner
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in urban planning, public administration, or related field; often requires experience in community developmentBachelor's or master's degree in urban planning, geography, or related field; certification like AICP is common
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, non-profits, community organizationsMunicipal planning departments, consulting firms, government agencies
Employer & Industry UsageLocal governments, non-profits, development agenciesCity planning departments, private consulting firms, government agencies

The Community Development Director focuses on overseeing community growth, housing, and economic development initiatives, often managing teams and programs. Urban Planners primarily analyze land use, develop zoning policies, and create urban designs. While both roles require planning expertise and work within government or related sectors, the Community Development Director has a broader leadership role in community projects, whereas Urban Planners focus more on land use and spatial planning.

What job categories do people searching Community Development Director jobs in Waterville, ME look for?

The top searched job categories for Community Development Director jobs in Waterville, ME are:

What cities near Waterville, ME are hiring for Community Development Director jobs?

Cities near Waterville, ME with the most Community Development Director job openings:

Real Estate Development Director

Kennebec Valley Community Action Program

Waterville, ME • On-site

$36.06 - $43.27/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Description:

KVCAP is looking for a motivated individual for the Real Estate Development Director position. This person is responsible for overseeing and growing KVCAP’s housing development projects. This position is responsible for program development, planning, budget development, asset management and securing funding for all housing development projects. Oversees Cony Village, all rental properties and all future development projects, to include affordable housing rental units and rehabilitation/sale of distressed homes, keeping them affordable. This position explores/researches other potential affordable housing models and partnerships in order to increase housing affordability in local communities. This position is also responsible for overseeing a variety of special agency projects as well as conducting community engagement activities on behalf of KVCAP.



Requirements:
  • Eight years related experience in the real estate, housing development and/or lending.
  • MBA preferred, Bachelor’s degree required, and experience as indicated above.
  • Strong organization, group management and critical thinking skills.
  • Strong skills in budgeting, financial planning computation and statistical analysis.
  • Strong interpersonal and written and verbal communication skills.
  • Proficient in computer skills including Microsoft Word and Excel spreadsheets.
  • Ability to pass State Bureau of Investigation, Department of Motor Vehicle, Department of Health and Human Services, Fraud, and Sex offender registry background checks.
  • Valid driver’s license and use of a vehicle insured to State of Maine requirements.


Benefits

  • 13 Paid Holidays
  • Low cost health, dental, vision, life and long-term disability insurance options
  • Generous Paid Time Off program that starts at 4 weeks per year
  • Employer-sponsored retirement plan that includes an employer contribution and an employer match
  • Annual CSA program that delivers a weekly box of food from local farms to all participating employees for 20+ weeks per year
  • Professional growth and development opportunities