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Community Development Planner Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

CC Industries

Land Development Manager

Naperville, IL · On-site

$88K - $100K/yr

... Crown Community Development. This role ensures that all aspects of the project, from planning to completion, meet quality, safety, and regulatory standards. Responsibilities include contractor ...

Kendall County

IL · On-site

$110 - $160/hr

Preferred fields include business administration, public administration, community development or planning, economics or economic development, real estate, public relations, marketing, business ...

City of Des Plaines, IL

Associate Planner

Des Plaines, IL · On-site

$73K - $102K/yr

Prior experience including internships or employment in municipal community development and/or urban planning preferred. MINIMUM KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES * Knowledge of urban and suburban ...

Autodesk

USA Community Manager - Forma

Ohio, IL · On-site

$91K - $163K/yr

Inputting into planning and reporting cycles Minimum Qualifications * Experienced architectwith deep network and credibility within the architecture community * Comfortable with ownershipand ...

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All JobsCommunity Development Planner JobsCommunity Development Planner Jobs in Illinois

Community Development Planner information

See Illinois salary details

$37.3K

$70.8K

$97.9K

How much do community development planner jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for community development planner in Illinois is $70,752.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,400.00 and $75,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

A Community Development Planner should have expertise in urban planning, land use policy, and community engagement, typically supported by a degree in urban planning, geography, or a related field. Familiarity with GIS software, zoning regulations, and data analysis tools is essential for effective planning and reporting. Strong interpersonal communication, negotiation, and project management skills help in building consensus and leading diverse stakeholders. These competencies are crucial for creating sustainable, inclusive communities and ensuring successful implementation of development projects.

How does a community development planner typically collaborate with local stakeholders and government agencies?

Community Development Planners work closely with a variety of stakeholders, including local residents, business owners, government agencies, and non-profit organizations. They often facilitate public meetings, gather feedback, and balance diverse interests to develop plans that reflect community needs. Effective collaboration requires strong communication and negotiation skills, as planners serve as liaisons between the public and decision-makers. Building consensus and fostering partnerships are key aspects of the role that can influence the success and sustainability of development projects.

What is a community development planner?

Community Development Planners are professionals who work with local governments, nonprofits, and community organizations to design and implement plans that improve neighborhoods and address community needs. They analyze data, engage with residents, and create strategies for housing, transportation, economic development, and public spaces. Their goal is to ensure sustainable and equitable growth, fostering vibrant and inclusive communities. Community Development Planners often collaborate with stakeholders to secure funding, write grants, and oversee project implementation.

How do you become a community development planner?

To become a community development planner, typically a bachelor's degree in urban planning, public administration, or a related field is required. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level planning positions and obtaining certification, such as the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP), can enhance career prospects.

What can you do with a community development planner degree?

A community development planner degree prepares individuals for roles in urban and regional planning, focusing on improving community infrastructure, housing, and public spaces. Graduates can work for government agencies, non-profit organizations, or private consulting firms, often utilizing GIS tools and planning regulations. The role typically requires strong communication skills and knowledge of zoning laws and community engagement strategies.

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

AspectCommunity Development PlannerUrban Planner
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in urban planning, public administration, or related field; often certification or licensingBachelor's or master's degree in urban planning, geography, or related field; certification may be preferred
Work EnvironmentLocal government agencies, community organizations, non-profitsMunicipal, regional, or private planning firms
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily in local government focusing on community projects and social programsIn government or private sector focusing on city-wide or regional development

Both roles involve planning and development, but Community Development Planners focus more on social programs and community engagement, while Urban Planners handle broader city or regional development strategies. The roles often overlap but differ in scope and focus areas.

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Community Development Planner jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Community Development Planner job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Community Development Planner jobs in IL?

For Community Development Planner jobs in IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Community Development Planner jobs near you
Infographic showing various Community Development Planner job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,752 per year, or $34 per hour.

(Hybrid) Community Development, Fall Intern

The Chicago Community Trust

Chicago, IL • On-site

$20/hr

Other

This job post has expired 4 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Job Descriptions:

JOB DESCRIPTION

2026 Fall Internship Program

Title: Community Development, Intern

Department: Community Impact

Reports To: Program Manager for Community Development

Direct Reports: N/A

Classification: Internship

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Job Grade: N/A

Compensation: $20/hour

Schedule: 21 hours/week (Hybrid: 2 days in office, 1 day remote)

Duration: 16 weeks, Fall 2026 (August 25 - December 10)

About the Internship Program

Our Fall Internship Program offers students the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in philanthropy, community engagement, operations, and organizational strategy. Interns work alongside staff across multiple departments.

The Community Development Team works toward a future when community assets — businesses, land, homes, and commercial real estate — will sustain and increase community well-being, cohesion and prosperity in long underinvested communities, ultimately building household wealth and a more thriving Chicago region.

What You’ll Do

The intern has an active role in supporting the Community Development team through research, analysis, and community partner engagement activities. The intern will develop learning memos and background materials, assess place-based community development opportunities, participate in meetings with grant and other civic partners, and present findings to help inform strategy and investment decisions. Through this work, the intern will strengthen their presentation, research, and writing skills while advancing the Trust’s efforts to build wealth and promote equitable investment in Chicago communities.

Expected Assignments:

  • Review existing impact measurement tools for funding programs to demonstrate the strengths of and opportunities to support Community Development grant partners

  • Track, document, and assess opportunities to enhance place-based investment aligned with Community Development priorities.

  • Participate in meetings with grant partners and other civic leaders, document important information, and provide feedback on alignment with strategic priorities.

  • Research and provide background memos on key policy issues and policy reform proposals to inform potential Trust engagement, examples of which may include key neighborhood amenities needed for overall development, models for supporting property acquisition, and other topics as assigned.

  • Participate in grantmaking processes by reviewing and scoring proposals, participating in site visits, and drafting grant recommendations

  • Support and coordinate key projects and events aimed at advancing the Trust’s strategic goals.

  • Complete other duties as assigned.

Who We’re Looking For

Students who are:

  • Currently enrolled as a senior undergraduate or graduate student

  • Curious, motivated, and committed to the Trust’s Mission

  • Strong communicators (written and verbal)

  • Organized and attentive to detail

  • Comfortable managing multiple tasks

  • Collaborative and eager to learn

  • Open to feedback and new ideas

Work Environment

This internship follows a hybrid schedule:

  • 2 days in office

  • 1 day remote

Timeline

This posting will close at 4:59PM CST on Monday July 27, 2026.

  • Application Cycle (7/15 - 7/27)

  • Applicant Screens (7/27 - 7/31)

  • In Person Interviews (8/3 - 8/7)

  • Intern Selection and Notifications (8/10 - 8/14)

  • Internship Onboarding (8/25 - 8/27)

Required Experience:

Position Qualifications

We welcome applicants from a wide range of academic backgrounds, including (but not limited to): Rising Senior - Graduate level Public Policy; Political Science; Public Administration; Urban Planning; Sustainable Urban Development; Community Development; Social Science, Economics; Business; Social Work; Law; or other related fields.

Preferred Qualifications (If Applicable)

  • Project coordination

  • Experience working with multiple teams/leaders at the same time

Thank you for your interest in joining our mission. We look forward to hearing from you!

Keyword: (Hybrid) Community Development, Fall Intern

From: The Chicago Community Trust

Apply