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Community Development Manager Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Business Development Manager

Frankfort, KY ยท On-site

$55K - $60K/yr

The Business Development Manager is responsible for identifying, prospecting and securing business ... Establish contacts in the business community including active participation in local networking ...

Community Manager

Bowling Green, KY ยท On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

Community Manager REPORTS TO : Regional Manager COMPENSATION: Hourly, plus Benefits and Bonus ... LDG Development LLC & its affiliates reserve the right to change s at any time, with or without ...

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$30.8K

$66.2K

$102.9K

How much do community development manager jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for community development manager in Kentucky is $66,158.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,800.00 and $79,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Is a Community Development Manager?

A community development manager oversees local events and establishes relationships with community members to promote company visibility and economic growth. Specific job duties vary, depending on the company and industry. In business, you cultivate positive partnerships with local companies, community groups, and government agencies through hosting informational events or attending regional forums. Other responsibilities include analyzing the financial impact your company has on the community and determines whether or not the area provides a healthy market for your company. You research and evaluate the needs of the designated market region and discover how the company can offer products or services to fulfill that need, or find areas to develop and open new businesses. Non-profit organizations utilize community development managers to spread the message of their cause and promote participation or solicit donations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Community Development Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Community Development Manager, you need expertise in project management, stakeholder engagement, and community outreach, often supported by a degree in public administration, urban planning, or a related field. Familiarity with grant writing software, CRM systems, and data analysis tools is typically required. Outstanding communication, cultural sensitivity, and leadership skills help build trust and foster productive partnerships. These capabilities are crucial for developing impactful programs, securing resources, and strengthening community relationships.

What are some common challenges faced by Community Development Managers when working with diverse stakeholder groups?

Community Development Managers often work with stakeholders who have varied interests, backgrounds, and priorities. A common challenge is balancing these different perspectives to create programs that are inclusive and effective for the entire community. Navigating conflicting interests requires strong communication, facilitation, and negotiation skills, as well as patience and adaptability. Building trust and fostering collaboration among stakeholders is essential for successful project outcomes and long-term community engagement.

What does a Community Development Manager do?

A Community Development Manager is responsible for building and maintaining relationships within communities to foster growth, engagement, and positive change. They often work with local organizations, government agencies, and residents to identify community needs and implement projects or programs that address those needs. Their duties may include organizing events, securing funding, managing volunteers, and evaluating the effectiveness of community initiatives. The goal is to enhance the well-being and quality of life for community members while supporting sustainable development.

What are the 5 elements of community development?

The five elements of community development are building relationships, identifying community needs, planning and implementing projects, fostering participation, and evaluating progress. Community Development Managers focus on these areas to promote sustainable growth and improve quality of life within communities. Strong communication skills and project management tools are essential for success in this role.

What is the difference between Community Development Manager vs Community Outreach Coordinator?

AspectCommunity Development ManagerCommunity Outreach Coordinator
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in social sciences, public administration, or related field; experience in community planningBachelor's degree often preferred; experience in communication or outreach roles
Work EnvironmentOffice-based with site visits; project management focusCommunity events, public meetings, and outreach activities
Employer & Industry UsageNonprofits, government agencies, urban developmentNonprofits, community organizations, government programs
Search & Comparison IntentLooking for managerial roles in community developmentSeeking roles focused on community engagement and outreach

The Community Development Manager typically oversees community projects, manages teams, and develops strategic plans, requiring more experience and higher-level credentials. In contrast, the Community Outreach Coordinator focuses on engaging with the community through events and communication efforts, often with less managerial responsibility. Both roles are vital in community-focused organizations but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Community Development jobs in Kentucky? The most popular types of Community Development jobs in Kentucky are:
What are popular job titles related to Community Development Manager jobs in Kentucky? For Community Development Manager jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Community Development Manager jobs? Cities in Kentucky with the most Community Development Manager job openings:

Community & Economic Development/GIS Planner

FIVCO Area Development District

Grayson, KY โ€ข On-site

$45K - $55K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

The Community & Economic Development/GIS Planner, under the direction of the Director of Community and Economic Development, supports regional planning, community development, and economic development initiatives through GIS mapping, data analysis, research, project coordination, and technical assistance. This position assists with maintaining GIS systems and regional databases related to transportation, water/wastewater infrastructure, demographics, and emergency management to support planning and decision-making. Responsibilities include developing maps, reports, and visualizations; conducting research and surveys; assisting with grant writing and project development; and coordinating with local governments, utilities, community organizations, and regional partners. The position also supports infrastructure and community development projects aimed at improving economic growth, public services, and quality of life throughout the region, while assisting with special projects and other duties as assigned.ย 

GENERAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Develop, implement, maintain, and update GIS databases, applications, layers, datasets, metadata, and associated regional databases, including transportation, water/wastewater, emergency management, road centerline, addressing, demographic, and infrastructure data.
  • Collect, analyze, interpret, and integrate geographic, demographic, economic, and community data from various sources to support planning, infrastructure, and economic development initiatives.
  • Perform spatial analysis, create maps and visual aids, and produce reports, presentations, and other materials to support decision-making, project development, and public engagement efforts.
  • Conduct research, surveys, and analyses related to economic trends, community needs, infrastructure, demographics, and regional development opportunities.
  • Develop and update comprehensive plans, strategic plans, economic development strategies, and other planning documents.
  • Identify funding opportunities and prepare grant applications for community and economic development projects through programs such as the Economic Development Administration (EDA), Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC), Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), and other state and federal funding sources.
  • Administer and manage grant-funded projects, ensuring compliance with grant requirements, reporting standards, project timelines, budgets, and deliverables.
  • Coordinate and manage community and economic development projects from inception to completion in collaboration with local governments, utility providers, businesses, community organizations, and regional stakeholders.
  • Provide technical assistance, troubleshooting, training, and policy recommendations to staff, member agencies, local governments, community groups, and stakeholders.
  • Gather field data using Trimble or equivalent GPS equipment and ensure regional GIS databases remain accurate and current.
  • Build and maintain relationships with local government officials, chambers of commerce, economic development professionals, community organizations, regional entities, and other stakeholders to support regional collaboration and project development.
  • Serve as a liaison between communities, partner agencies, funding organizations, and governmental entities on planning and development initiatives.
  • Collaborate with staff and external partners to identify community and economic development needs, develop solutions, and support regional planning efforts.
  • Conduct workshops, training sessions, public presentations, and educational outreach related to planning, GIS, infrastructure, and economic development topics.
  • Attend and participate in fiscal court, city council, board, stakeholder, and other public meetings as required.
  • Become Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) certified and maintain certifications or training relevant to the position as required.
  • Effectively communicate technical and planning-related information to both technical and non-technical audiences.
  • Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Bachelorโ€™s Degree in geography, urban planning, planning, public administration, or closely related field.
  • Practical experience working with GIS preferred.
  • Experience in community or economic development preferred.
  • A combination of education and experience may be substituted when competency is demonstrated.
  • Become a certified Community Development Block Grant Valid driverโ€™s license in state of residence.
  • May be required to become certified in operating drones.

SPECIALIZED SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES:
  • Knowledge of GIS software, mapping applications, spatial analysis techniques, and related databases.
  • Strong analytical, research, and problem-solving skills with the ability to compile, interpret, and present technical and statistical information.
  • Ability to create, analyze, and interpret maps, datasets, reports, and planning documents.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft 365 and other standard office and data management software.
  • Professional and technical skills in planning, research, grant writing, project management, and community and economic development.
  • Excellent written, verbal, presentation, and interpersonal communication skills, including the ability to effectively communicate technical information to non-technical audiences.
  • Ability to conduct presentations and facilitate discussions in both small and large group settings.
  • Strong organizational, time management, and project coordination skills with the ability to manage multiple assignments and meet deadlines.
  • Ability to prioritize tasks, work independently with minimal supervision, and exercise mature business judgment.
  • Strong interpersonal, networking, and relationship-building skills with the ability to work collaboratively with staff, local governments, stakeholders, and community organizations.
  • Ability to perform detailed and accurate work while maintaining confidentiality and professionalism.
  • Good listening skills and the ability to respond effectively to stakeholder and community needs.
  • Ability to operate computers, GIS equipment, GPS equipment, drones (if certified), and other standard office equipment.

WORKING CONDITIONS:
Work is typically performed in an office sitting at a desk. Long periods of time working at a computer with mapping software. May work under tight timelines. Travel within the five-county area is required. Some evening/weekend work may be required. Occasional over-night and out-of-state travel.

EFFORT:
  • Must be able to see, hear, and speak.
  • Intermittent sitting, standing, stooping, fingering, sorting and reaching.
  • Occasional light lifting may be required.

MACHINES, TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT:
  • Equipment typically used includes a personal computer, printer, copier, Trimble or equivalent GPS receiver and drones.
  • The usage of Microsoft 365 products is a must.

BENEFITS:ย 
  • Competitive benefits package with fully paid employee health, dental, vision, and life insurance coverage.
  • $25,000 life and accidental death & dismemberment insurance provided at no cost to employees.ย 
  • Participation in the Kentucky County Employees Retirement System (CERS), including employer contributions toward retirement and retiree health benefits.ย 
  • Optional Kentucky Deferred Compensation Plan to help supplement retirement savings.ย 
  • Optional AFLAC and Colonial Life supplemental insurance plans, including short-term disability and critical illness coverage.
  • Generous paid time off package including vacation leave, sick leave, paid holidays, and floating holidays.ย 
  • Fourteen (14) paid holidays annually, plus additional holiday time during Presidential election years and two floating holidays.
  • Vacation and sick leave accrued each pay period beginning on day one of employment.
  • Optional one work from home day, post completion of job orientation.
  • Mondayโ€“Friday work schedule with limited overnight travel depending on position responsibilities.ย 
  • Paid lodging, per diem, and travel reimbursement for approved work-related travel.
  • Mileage reimbursement when using a personal vehicle for work-related activities.
  • Supportive work environment focused on public service, professional development, and regional impact.