ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Community Development Specialist Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Access Dubuque

Registration Specialist

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$18.05/hr

... Development Specialist Hirschbach Motor Lines, Inc. Administrative Specialist - Interiors University of Wisconsin-Platteville Share this Job Northeast Iowa Community College About the Company ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsCommunity Development Specialist JobsCommunity Development Specialist Jobs in Iowa

Community Development Specialist information

See Iowa salary details

$29.1K

$69.5K

$109.4K

How much do community development specialist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for community development specialist in Iowa is $69,501.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,200.00 and $83,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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 degree do you need for a community development specialist?

A community development specialist typically needs at least a bachelor's degree in fields such as community development, urban planning, social work, public administration, or related areas. Some roles may prefer or require a master's degree or relevant certifications, along with strong communication and project management skills.
More about Community Development Specialist jobs

What are popular job titles related to Community Development Specialist jobs in Iowa?

For Community Development Specialist jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Community Development Specialist jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Community Development Specialist jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Community Development Specialist jobs in IA?

For Community Development Specialist jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Community Development Specialist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Community Development Specialist job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,501 per year, or $33.4 per hour.

Developmental Specialist

Link Associates

West Des Moines, IA • On-site

$16 - $17/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Developmental Specialist - Human Services Direct Care Professional.

Link Associates Now Hiring for highly sought-after shifts! 
  • Monday - Friday.
  • On-Site Childcare.
  • Daily Pay.
  • Available full-time shifts 8 am – 4 pm.
  • No Evenings.
  • No Weekends.
  • Paid Holidays.

Responsibilities:
  • As a Developmental Specialist at Link, you work with adults who have various types of intellectual and developmental disabilities.
  • Some of the people Link supports are fairly independent and able to take care of many of their needs on their own.
  • Others may be non-verbal and unable to use their arms and legs and require more assistance doing things.
  • Provide transportation and accompany the people they support into the community as they run errands like going to the bank and grocery shopping, visit others and go on outings, and attend events.
  • Get to know each of the people they support.
  • Getting to know what the people they support like, what they dislike, what brings them joy and makes them happy as well as what might trigger a behavior.
  • Really need to know the people they work with in order to be successful at supporting them and to ensure they are happy, healthy, and safe.

APPLY AT WWW.LINKASSOCIATES.ORG/APPLY