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Community Development Planning Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

$91K - $163K/yr

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

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

Assess planning applications and proposals. Conduct research and analysis on land use and community development. Facilitate public meetings and hearings on land use issues. Collaborate with ...

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Community Development Planning information

See Michigan salary details

$33.6K

$63.6K

$88K

How much do community development planning jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for community development planning in Michigan is $63,638.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,800.00 and $67,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectCommunity Development PlanningUrban Planning
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Urban Planning, Community Development, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Urban Planning, Geography, or related fields
Work EnvironmentLocal government agencies, non-profits, community organizationsMunicipal governments, private consulting firms, government agencies
Industry UsageFocuses on community needs, social programs, and local development projectsFocuses on city-wide land use, zoning, and infrastructure planning

Community Development Planning and Urban Planning share overlapping skills and work environments, but differ in scope. Community Development Planning emphasizes local community needs and social programs, while Urban Planning focuses on city-wide land use and infrastructure. Both roles are vital in shaping sustainable, livable communities but serve distinct functions within the planning industry.

What is community development planning?

Community development planning is a process that involves assessing the needs of a community and creating strategic plans to improve its social, economic, and physical well-being. Professionals in this field work with local stakeholders, government agencies, and organizations to develop initiatives and projects that address issues such as housing, infrastructure, economic growth, and public services. The goal is to foster sustainable development that benefits all members of the community while encouraging participation and inclusion. Community development planners often use data analysis, policy research, and public engagement to guide their decisions.

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

To thrive as a Community Development Planner, you need expertise in urban planning, community engagement, and policy analysis, typically supported by a bachelor’s or master’s degree in urban planning or a related field. Familiarity with GIS software, zoning regulations, and planning frameworks is often required, along with certifications like AICP. Strong interpersonal communication, problem-solving, and facilitation skills help build consensus and foster collaborative relationships with diverse stakeholders. These skills ensure effective project implementation, sustainable community growth, and positive stakeholder outcomes.

What are the most common challenges faced by professionals in Community Development Planning, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Community Development Planning often encounter challenges such as balancing the diverse needs of stakeholders, securing adequate funding, and navigating regulatory requirements. Addressing these challenges requires strong communication skills to facilitate community engagement, creative problem-solving to develop feasible project proposals, and staying informed about relevant policies and grant opportunities. Collaborating closely with local government officials, non-profit organizations, and residents helps ensure that development plans are both practical and broadly supported.
What are popular job titles related to Community Development Planning jobs in Michigan? For Community Development Planning jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Community Development Planning jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Community Development Planning job openings:
Economic Development Specialist

Economic Development Specialist

ROWE Professional Services Company

Grand Rapids, MI • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

The Company
ROWE Professional Services Company is an employee-owned, full-service professional consulting firm specializing in civil engineering, surveying, aerial photography/mapping, LiDAR, landscape architecture, planning, and land development.
At ROWE, our core values include safety, quality, people, service, and growth. We are seeking a Economic Development Specialist to join our proactive team of ethical, talented, passionate professionals and leaders at our Grand Rapids, MI office.
Position Summary
The Economic Development Specialist supports ROWE clients in identifying, securing, and managing funding for infrastructure and community development projects. This role blends financial strategy, grant writing, regulatory knowledge, and client relationship management to help communities move projects from concept to construction.
Key Responsibilities
Funding Strategy & Planning
  • Collaborate with engineers, planners, and clients to develop comprehensive funding strategies for community development projects.
  • Identify federal, state, and local grant/loan opportunities (e.g., SRF, USDA-RD, Safety, TAP, Bridge, TEDF, CDBG, EPA programs, etc.).
  • Assist in preparing funding feasibility analyses, rate impact studies, and capital improvement funding plans.

Grant & Loan Administration
  • Support business development efforts and proposal preparation.
  • Lead preparation of grant and loan applications, including narratives, budgets, schedules, and benefit analyses.
  • Coordinate required technical documentation with internal design teams.
  • Track legislative and program changes that affect client funding options.
  • Work with project managers to align project scopes and schedules with funding requirements.
  • Maintain funding opportunity databases and internal best practices.

Job Requirements
  • Degree in Public Administration, Finance, Planning, Business, Professional/Technical Writing or related field.
  • 5+ years of experience in grant administration, municipal finance, economic development, or A/E consulting.
  • Direct experience with infrastructure funding programs preferred.
  • Certified Grant Administrator or related economic development credentials preferred
  • Strong technical writing experience preferred
  • Knowledgeable of federal/state procurement and compliance
  • Ability to translate engineering concepts into fundable community benefits
  • Relationship-building and presentation skills
  • Project management and deadline coordination
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills
  • Ability to work remotely and in person effectively

Why Work Here
ROWE offers a highly competitive wage and benefits package which includes:
  • Overtime pay at time and a half.
  • BCBS medical insurance options with industry-low co-shares.
  • Dental, vision, and employer-paid life insurance plan.
  • A generous PTO program and paid holidays.
  • Flex time scheduling and telework opportunities.
  • Traditional and Roth 401(k) options with 4% company match, auto-enroll and target-based funds.

ROWE is truly dedicated to providing a collaborative workspace, rewarding projects, and a business culture that is reputable, ethically minded, and growth driven. With offices in Flint, Lapeer, Farmington Hills, Grand Rapids, Mt. Pleasant, Grayling, Oscoda, MI, and Myrtle Beach, SC, we have lots of opportunity to grow.
WE BUILD CAREERS!
Check us out at: www.rowepsc.com
Direct Contact Information:
ROWE Professional Services Company
Attn: HR
540 S. Saginaw St., Ste. 200
Flint, MI 48502
employment@rowepsc.com
Equal Opportunity Employer