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Community Development Specialist Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

OR · On-site

$17 - $21/hr

Youth Development Specialist Location ... Oregon (Willamette Valley region) Employment Type: Full-Time | Community-Based Education Inspire ...

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Community Development Specialist information

See Oregon salary details

$32.8K

$78.2K

$123.2K

How much do community development specialist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for community development specialist in Oregon is $78,234.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,600.00 and $93,600.00 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.

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Community Development Specialist job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,234 per year, or $37.6 per hour.

Development Specialist, Community Programs

Portland, OR • Hybrid

$24.52 - $28.60/hr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Priority Application Deadline: August 31, 2026

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Starting Hourly Rate: $24.52 - $28.60 per hour

Work Location: Hybrid


About the Position

In this role, you'll provide administrative, project coordination, and donor engagement support that help advance the philanthropic goals of the Community Programs team. The Development Specialist will also work closely with donors, volunteers, faculty, and colleagues across the Foundation and OHSU. Your day-to-day will include coordinating projects, events, and team initiatives, preparing briefing materials for donors and prospects, supporting reporting for donor meetings, maintaining donor and prospect data, and managing calendars. 

What You'll Be DoingAdministrative Support
  • Maintain the Managing Sr. Director of Development's calendar by planning and scheduling meetings, conferences, travel, and project/work time, ensuring strategic prioritization of events, meetings, and commitments
  • Assist with proactive meeting preparedness for the Community Programs team, including drafting agendas and briefing materials, taking and distributing notes, and tracking follow-up steps
  • Support the Community Programs team's administrative needs, which may include calendaring, invoice processing, reporting, database entry, and maintaining and managing donor and prospect data
  • Respond to internal and external inquiries and route messages in an appropriate and timely manner
  • Oversee other administrative tasks as assigned for the Community Programs team
Workflow & Project Management
  • Provide dedicated project support for the Community Programs team
  • Document and create processes for the unit's development activity and drive the execution of these items in collaboration with Community Programs team members
  • Manage complex mailing projects for community partners
  • Coordinate with other Foundation departments to execute on events and projects related to the Community Programs team
Donor Meeting & Event Support
  • Support Community Programs team members in meeting preparedness and follow-up, including gathering necessary support and briefing material, elevating key background and strategy points to development leadership as needed, and disseminating assignments after meetings and tracking follow-up steps
  • Analyze and synthesize large amounts of information from development officers, research team members, and other sources, elevating key background and strategy points to development team members as needed
  • As appropriate, represent the Foundation with potential donors, current donors, OHSU and Foundation colleagues, volunteers, and community members at events
Who You Are
  • You're comfortable working in a fast-paced, reactive environment
  • You have strong project management and organizational skills, with the ability to independently manage and prioritize multiple projects and tasks
  • You have exceptional attention to detail
  • You have demonstrated interpersonal skills and the ability to collaborate professionally, diplomatically, and productively with contacts at all levels, including faculty, council members, donors, and other colleagues
  • You take initiative, are self-directed, and demonstrate a high level of accountability
  • You have excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • You're proficient in the Microsoft Office suite, with advanced knowledge of Outlook, Excel, and Word
  • You're compassionate and culturally responsive, with the ability to work with internal and external individuals and groups from diverse backgrounds and lived experiences
You Should Have
  • 2+ years of experience in an administrative support function
  • Experience with project coordination
  • Event fundraising experience preferred
  • Foundation, healthcare, or university experience preferred
  • Experience working in Salesforce or another CRM preferred

We want to emphasize that there is no such thing as the perfect candidate; candidates who do not have all of the required experience are encouraged to apply.

Working Conditions
  • Occasional hours outside of normal work hours for meetings or programs
  • Hybrid schedule with onsite work required approximately 3 days per week (variable based on team needs, events, and other activities)
  • Extensive computer-based work, including typing, meeting attendance, document review, and data entry
  • Frequent interruptions and shifting priorities
  • Some local travel may be necessary for events