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Community Development Specialist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Heartland Bank and Trust Company

$66K - $78K/yr

The Community Development Specialist will be part of the Community Reinvestment and Fair Banking Department of the Risk Management Division where the primary focus is helping management protect the ...

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How much do community development specialist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for community development specialist in the United States is $73,995.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,500.00 and $88,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a community development specialist?

A community development specialist is a professional who plans, implements, and evaluates programs to improve social, economic, and environmental conditions within communities. They often work with local organizations, government agencies, and residents to promote sustainable growth and may use tools like needs assessments and grant writing. Strong communication, project management skills, and knowledge of community resources are essential for this role.

What Is a Community Development Specialist?

A community development specialist typically works in city government housing and community construction departments to determine the use of grant funds and plan programs to help home buyers finance new and affordable homes or provide shelter for the homeless. Job duties include researching, developing reports, managing and generating funds, and doing public outreach. At least five years of experience in community development is required, and experience in social work and knowledge of state and local laws is a plus. Educational qualifications for this career include a bachelor’s degree in social sciences or a related field. Strong writing and analytical skills are essential.

What does a Community Development Specialist do?

A Community Development Specialist works to improve and strengthen communities by identifying needs, developing programs, and coordinating resources. They often collaborate with local governments, nonprofit organizations, and residents to address issues such as housing, economic development, health, and education. Their responsibilities may include conducting research, applying for grants, managing projects, and facilitating community engagement. Ultimately, their goal is to foster sustainable growth and enhance the quality of life within communities.

What are some common challenges Community Development Specialists face when engaging with diverse communities?

Community Development Specialists often work with groups that have varying cultural backgrounds, needs, and priorities, which can present challenges in building trust and fostering effective communication. Navigating language barriers, differing expectations, and occasional resistance to change requires strong interpersonal and problem-solving skills. Successful specialists use active listening, empathy, and collaborative approaches to ensure all voices are heard and to create inclusive, sustainable development strategies.

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

To thrive as a Community Development Specialist, you need expertise in project management, community engagement, and knowledge of urban planning or social work, usually supported by a relevant bachelor’s or master’s degree. Familiarity with data analysis tools, grant writing software, and GIS systems is often required. Outstanding interpersonal communication, cultural sensitivity, and problem-solving skills help build trust and facilitate productive partnerships. These abilities are crucial for designing effective programs and achieving positive, sustainable impact within diverse communities.
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Community Development Specialist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Community Development Specialist job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 41% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,995 per year, or $35.6 per hour.
Community Development Specialist

Community Development Specialist

Heartland Bank and Trust Company

Springfield, IL • On-site

$66K - $78K/yr

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Text "2583" to (309) 322-9911 to apply.
Wage Range: Min: $54,153, Mid: $66,561, Max: $78,969
A Brief Overview
The Community Development Specialist is responsible for helping the Bank maintain effective and compliant CRA and fair lending programs, specifically as it pertains to coordinating successful community outreach programs. The Community Development Specialist will be part of the Community Reinvestment and Fair Banking Department of the Risk Management Division where the primary focus is helping management protect the Bank against undue risk exposure.
What you will do
  • Remain current on state and federal regulations pertaining to assigned areas of oversight.
  • Conduct research on consumer credit, financial education, and other CRA trends in the industry, including reviewing regulatory resources as well as competitor activities. Recommend new programs and/or changes to existing programs to enhance CRA offerings.
  • Assist with coordinating community outreach programs, including administering the Bank's financial literacy courses.
  • Help with planning and executing annual Money Matters Train the Trainer classes in the Bank's various market regions.
  • Assist with maintaining accurate CRA volunteer service logs and donation logs including all applicable supporting documentation within the department's software.
  • Serve as a liaison between the CRA & Fair Banking Department and assigned branch network.
  • Support the CRA & Fair Banking Officer by drafting monthly, quarterly, and yearly reports from areas of oversight.

Other Qualifications/Requirements
  • Some basic understanding of CRA and fair lending laws.
  • Bachelor's Degree Business and less than 1 year CRA and/or Fair Lending preferred or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Who We Are
Heartland Bank and Trust Company is headquartered in Bloomington, Illinois. With 70+ locations throughout Illinois and Eastern Iowa, Heartland continues to grow and is committed to preserving strong ties to our communities, customers, employees, and shareholders.
Heartland Bank's mission is to "create value for the customer, earn a profit for the Bank, and have fun doing it!" At Heartland, employees have the opportunity to make a difference every day.
What We Offer
At Heartland Bank, we offer a competitive benefits package to provide you with peace of mind. Click here to learn more about what benefits we have to offer.
Physical Demands
  • Regularly: Sitting, Feeling/Touching, Talking, Hearing, Vision - close peripheral, depth
  • Frequently: Standing, Walking, Grasping/Reaching - with arms and hands, Repetitive Motions
  • Occasionally: Climbing and/or Balancing, Stooping, Kneeling, Crouching, and/or Crawling, Lifting (30 lbs.)

Equal Opportunities and Accommodations Statement
Heartland Bank is deeply committed to creating a workplace where inclusion is not only valued but prioritized. We're proud to be an equal opportunity employer, seeking to create a welcoming and diverse environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, family status, marital status, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or any other non-merit based or legally protected grounds.
Salary Disclaimer
The salary range represents the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. Heartland Bank considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, and internal equity.
The salary range minimum, midpoint, and maximum listed above represent a full range of career compensation growth over time in this position and pay grade. Starting pay typically starts between minimum and midpoint upon hire. The Bank offers compensation growth opportunities within its career architecture.

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